Top 8 Lakes around Peter Tavy

While Peter Tavy itself doesn't have large natural lakes, its proximity to Dartmoor National Park offers a diverse range of water features. You can find spectacular river valleys like Tavy Cleave with rapids and pools, historical sites such as Peter Tavy Coombe, and several significant reservoirs. These include Meldon Reservoir, Burrator Reservoir, and the cluster of Kennick, Tottiford, and Trenchford Reservoirs.

Yes, there are several notable spots for wild swimming. Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side) is known for its clear, cold water, making it popular for a dip on warm days. Another excellent option is Crazywell Pool, a deep, hidden natural pool on Dartmoor, accessible via moderate trails. Tavy Cleave also features pools suitable for wild swimming, though some parts of the main swimming spot are shallow.

Meldon Reservoir is a great choice for families, offering peace, excellent bird life, and a path running its full length. Burrator Reservoir is also very family-friendly, with ample walks, a Discovery Centre, and opportunities to explore historic settlements and nature.

The area around Peter Tavy is rich in history. Meldon Quarry Lake, for instance, is the site of an old quarry with a history of limestone and aggregate extraction dating back to the late 1700s. Peter Tavy Coombe historically featured a concrete-lined swimming pool from 1933. Burrator Reservoir also has historic settlements and evidence of tin working around its shores, and Tottiford Reservoir, Dartmoor's oldest, dates back to 1861 with ongoing archaeological discoveries.

Absolutely. Many lakes and water features offer excellent walking opportunities. You can find popular walks starting from Meldon Reservoir, including routes to landmarks like the Granite Way. Burrator Reservoir provides ample walks, and the three connected reservoirs of Kennick, Tottiford, and Trenchford are ideal for walks. For more challenging hikes, Tavy Cleave offers rugged paths with breathtaking views. You can find various hiking routes in the area by exploring the lakes guide.

The lakes and reservoirs around Peter Tavy are havens for wildlife. Meldon Reservoir is known for its excellent bird life. The tranquil areas around Kennick, Tottiford, and Trenchford Reservoirs also boast diverse wildlife, including various bird species. Peter Tavy Coombe, while no longer a swimming spot, is now described as a wildlife pond.

Yes, fishing is a popular activity at some of the reservoirs. Burrator Reservoir is a popular spot for rainbow trout fishing. Kennick Reservoir is primarily reserved for anglers, offering a picturesque setting for fly fishing, and Trenchford Reservoir is known for pike fishing. Fishing permits can often be purchased on-site or through the South West Lakes Trust.

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking, wild swimming, and enjoying the vibrant flora. Autumn provides stunning scenery with changing foliage. Even in winter, the landscapes can be dramatic and peaceful, though some trails might be more challenging. Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side) is particularly popular for sunset views in the summer.

For a more tranquil experience, consider the cluster of Kennick, Tottiford, and Trenchford Reservoirs. They are connected by footpaths and praised for their tranquility, offering excellent picnic spots amidst diverse wildlife. While Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side) can be busy, especially on warm days and weekends, other spots like Meldon Reservoir are known for peace and quiet.

Beyond walking and swimming, the area around Peter Tavy and its lakes offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Abbey Bridge and Weir – Burrator Reservoir and Dam loop', and mountain biking trails like the 'Langstone Moor & Great Combe Tor loop'. For more cycling options, explore the Cycling around Peter Tavy guide, the Road Cycling Routes around Peter Tavy guide, or the MTB Trails around Peter Tavy guide.

Wild camping on Dartmoor is generally permitted in certain areas. Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side) is a popular spot for wild campers, though it can be busy. Crazywell Pool is also considered a good spot for wild camping legally on Dartmoor. Always check the latest regulations and designated areas for wild camping within Dartmoor National Park.

Yes, the region offers many scenic viewpoints. Tavy Cleave provides breathtaking views, particularly from the mouth of the cleave at Ger Tor up to the high north plateau. Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side) is a viewpoint known for spectacular sunsets. Burrator Reservoir is often described as the 'jewel of Dartmoor' due to its dramatic tors and open moorland views. Meldon Reservoir also offers wide-open countryside views.