Top 3 Lakes around Shirwell
Best lakes around Shirwell offer a variety of natural and man-made water features for exploration. The region features diverse landscapes, from tranquil reservoirs to coastal coves and marshlands. These areas provide opportunities for walking, wildlife observation, and experiencing the local environment. Shirwell's proximity to both inland waters and the coast contributes to its varied aquatic attractions.
Best lakes around Shirwell
- The most popular lakes is Isley Marsh Nature Reserve, a lake and natural area that serves as an important…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Ilfracombe Harbour
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Isley Marsh Nature Reserve
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Wistlandpound Reservoir Bird Hide
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Rapparee Cove
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Wild Swimming Spot by the Shore
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Tips from the Community
The restaurant (Smugglers) is a little gem garlic butter lobster and the also let dogs in provided the fit under the tables very reasonable prices as well £35 for a full lobster
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Just after the Round Tower take the small fishermen’s path on the left through the blackthorn bushes down to the shore. There is an old set of steps carved into the rock. Best around high tide.
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Lovely little harbour with colourful boats and some nice pubs around! Mind the black & white grumpy cat! 🐱
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Without a doubt the true center of the town, it is absolutely pulsating here. Lots of places to stop for refreshments, The excursions to the bird island of Lundy also start here. It's interesting that people are still working hard in this port. We really enjoyed seeing so much!
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Wistlandpound Reservoir is a tranquil place where you can feel close to nature. It is an easy 2.6km hike around the edge of the lake which takes you through the forest and along the water's edge. All the while surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside. The path around the reservoir is accessible for both wheelchairs and pushchairs. The reservoir supplies drinking water to nearby Ilfracombe, Barnstaple and Combe Martin. If the water levels are low, look out for the ruins of the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway which used to run though the valley until the reservoir was built in 1956.
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On the southern shores of Wistpoundland Reservoir, take a break in the bird hide to see what wildlife you can spot. You're fairly likely to see western cattle egret, and might be lucky to see a great white egret in the winter. There have also been recent sightings of white-tailed eagles up here! You can see all different waterfowl by taking a jaunt around the reservoir on the path. Check out more about the reservoir and what to look out for here at:https://www.swlakestrust.org.uk/wistlandpound
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Running alongside the Tarka Trail, the Isley Marsh Nature Reserve is a haven for many different and unusual bird species. Made up of salt marshes and intertidal mudflats on the Taw and Torridge Estuary, the reserve is home to curlew, greenshank, dunlin and even spoonbills during the winter months. You can find more information about the reserve, here: https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/isley-marsh/
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The pretty town of Ilfracombe is perched atop some of Devon's most stunning coast line. Ilfracombe's harbour is several centuries old. Boats ferry passengers to Lundy Island, North Cornwall and the Bristol Channel coasts. Ilfracombe is a lovely place to whistle away an afternoon, exploring quaint streets and eating ice cream on the beach. You can find out more about Ilfracombe, here: https://www.visitilfracombe.co.uk/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Shirwell's lakes?
Shirwell offers diverse aquatic attractions, including tranquil reservoirs, coastal coves, and marshlands. You can explore areas like Isley Marsh Nature Reserve with its saltmarsh and intertidal mudflats, or the serene Wistlandpound Reservoir.
Are there family-friendly lakes or walks around Shirwell?
Yes, Wistlandpound Reservoir is a family-friendly option, offering an easy 2.6 km hike around its edge that is accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Isley Marsh Nature Reserve is also suitable for families interested in wildlife observation.
Where can I go for easy walks around Shirwell's lakes?
For an easy and accessible walk, the 2.6 km path around Wistlandpound Reservoir is ideal. It takes you through the forest and along the water's edge. You can also find other easy routes in the Easy hikes around Shirwell guide.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming near Shirwell?
Yes, you can find secluded spots for wild swimming. One such location is the Wild Swimming Spot by the Shore, accessible via a small fishermen’s path. Rapparee Cove is another option for swimming.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Shirwell's lakes?
The region is excellent for birdwatching. Isley Marsh Nature Reserve is a haven for various bird species like teal, curlew, greenshank, dunlin, and spoonbills, especially during winter. At Wistlandpound Reservoir Bird Hide, you might spot western cattle egret, and potentially great white egret or even white-tailed eagles in winter.
What are the best times to visit the lakes around Shirwell for birdwatching?
For optimal birdwatching, especially for species like curlew, greenshank, dunlin, and spoonbills, visiting Isley Marsh Nature Reserve during the winter months is recommended. Winter also offers chances to see great white egrets and white-tailed eagles at Wistlandpound Reservoir.
Are there any historical sites near the lakes in Shirwell?
While not directly a lake, Rapparee Cove is a historical site near Ilfracombe, known as the location of the 1796 shipwreck of the London. Additionally, if water levels are low at Wistlandpound Reservoir, you might see the ruins of the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway.
What outdoor activities can I do near Shirwell's lakes?
Beyond exploring the lakes themselves, Shirwell offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails and running routes in the surrounding area, catering to different difficulty levels.
Are there any places for refreshments or facilities near the lake walks?
While not directly on a lake walk, Ilfracombe Harbour, a vibrant hub, offers numerous places to stop for refreshments and has facilities. Some local establishments are also dog-friendly.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Shirwell?
Visitors appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the area. Many enjoy the opportunities for birdwatching, easy walks, and experiencing the local environment. The accessibility of places like Wistlandpound Reservoir for all ages and abilities is also highly valued.
Can I find circular walks around the lakes in Shirwell?
Yes, Wistlandpound Reservoir features a popular 2.6 km circular path around its edge, offering a pleasant loop through the forest and along the water.
Most popular attractions around Shirwell
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