Best lakes around Malborough offers a diverse landscape primarily characterized by its coastal proximity in South Devon. The area features natural freshwater lakes, coastal bays, and estuaries, providing varied natural environments. These aquatic features are often complemented by views of the English Channel and the Kingsbridge Estuary. The region's geography supports a range of outdoor activities and natural exploration.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
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From this point along the South West Coast Path, you are treated to breathtaking views of Starehole Bay. This little bay in South Devon sits at the mouth of the Kingsbridge Estuary, where it opens into the English Channel.
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Mill Bay is a fun sandy beach. The views from this coast across Salcombe Harbour are wonderful. It's worth slowing down your run or pausing to take it all in.
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It's often too windy here for a sheltered picnic but so worth it.
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The views from here on a good day are superb.
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The headland looking back on Hope Cove and across to South Milton Sands. A nice stead walk up with some rockier bits near the top. Make sure you’re wearing suitable footwear if you want to get to the top of the view point.
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Running up to Snape's Point is worth it for the stunning views of Salcombe and the Kingsbridge Estuary.
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When the tide is out it's a great place to explore. a mix of sand and rocks. The path down to the cove is fenced off where it joins the coastal path, but it still is there. I was maintained not that long ago and the metal bridge at the bottom currently feels robust (July 2021).
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Malborough is close to several beautiful aquatic areas. One notable spot is Slapton Sands and Slapton Ley, which features Devon’s largest natural freshwater lake and a picturesque beach. Other areas offer stunning coastal views that incorporate the wider aquatic landscape, such as Starehole Bay and the views from Bolt Tail overlooking Hope Cove.
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Slapton Sands and Slapton Ley is a great option, offering both a beach and a freshwater lake. Additionally, View of Salcombe from Snapes Point and View of Salcombe Harbour from Mill Bay are noted as family-friendly, providing scenic views and sandy beaches.
The region offers diverse natural beauty. You can find large natural freshwater lakes like Slapton Ley, extensive beaches such as Slapton Sands and Mill Bay, and dramatic coastal viewpoints like those from Bolt Tail and Snapes Point. These areas are rich in flora and fauna, particularly Slapton Ley, which is a National Nature Reserve known for rare plant and bird species.
The area around Malborough is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy road cycling, touring cycling, and running. For specific routes, explore options like the 'Hope Cove & Thurleston loops from Salcombe' for road cycling, the 'South Milton Sands – Co-op Salcombe loop from Salcombe' for touring, or the 'Bolt Tail & Bolt Head loop from East Soar' for running. You can find more details in the Road Cycling Routes around Malborough, Cycling around Malborough, and Running Trails around Malborough guides.
Absolutely. The South West Coast Path offers breathtaking views, particularly from points like Starehole Bay and Bolt Tail. These trails provide magnificent vistas of the English Channel, coves, and estuaries. Remember to wear suitable footwear for some of the rockier sections near viewpoints.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views and the serene atmosphere. The 'breathtaking views' from the South West Coast Path, the 'superb' vistas from Bolt Tail, and the 'wonderful' outlooks across Salcombe Harbour from Mill Bay are often highlighted. The opportunity to relax on benches at spots like Snapes Point and take in the scenery is also a favorite.
Yes, the region is rich in beaches and coves. Slapton Sands is a long, picturesque beach. Mill Bay is a fun sandy beach, and Starehole Bay offers a mix of sand and rocks, great for exploring at low tide.
While the immediate highlights focus on natural beauty, the broader Marlborough region has a rich history. The Marlborough Sounds in New Zealand, for example, are known for their historical significance related to Captain Cook and early Māori-European contact. However, for Malborough, Devon, the primary draw is its natural coastal and freshwater environments.
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Warmer months are ideal for enjoying the beaches and water activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, often with fewer crowds. Winter can provide dramatic coastal scenery, though some paths might be more challenging due to weather conditions.
Yes, particularly at Slapton Ley, which is a National Nature Reserve. It's home to many rare species of plants and birds, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and observing local wildlife.
The viewpoints offer spectacular panoramic vistas. From Starehole Bay, you'll see the bay at the mouth of the Kingsbridge Estuary. Bolt Tail provides superb views back on Hope Cove and across to South Milton Sands. Snapes Point offers stunning views of Salcombe and the Kingsbridge Estuary, while Mill Bay gives wonderful views across Salcombe Harbour.


Still not found your perfect lake around Malborough? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.