Top 5 Lakes around Belstone

For scenic walks, Meldon Reservoir offers a path along its full length with excellent bird life and routes up to Yes Tor. Fernworthy Reservoir also provides beautiful walks through a forest setting. Additionally, Meldon Quarry Lake, though industrial in origin, now offers a peaceful landscape for walking and cycling.

Yes, Meldon Reservoir is considered family-friendly, with a path running its full length that's suitable for families. Fernworthy Reservoir also offers family-friendly walks amidst its forest and wildlife.

Shilley Pool on Blackerton Brook, within walking distance of Belstone, is a popular spot for wild swimming and even features a natural 'slide' down the rocks. Cullever Pool is another excellent spot for a wild swim. While the River Taw has informal swimming spots, direct swimming in reservoirs like Meldon is generally not permitted due to safety concerns.

Fernworthy Reservoir is home to diverse wildlife, including the marsh fritillary butterfly, bee hawk moth, and birds such as snipe, heron, and grebe. Meldon Reservoir is also known for its excellent bird life.

Yes, Fernworthy Reservoir features ancient stone cairns, hut circles, and a submerged clapper bridge. The area around Meldon Quarry Lake also has a history of industrial activity dating back to the late 1700s.

For Meldon Reservoir, there is parking available at the dam wall. For other locations, parking information is typically available on site or through local signage.

While the immediate paths around the reservoirs are generally accessible, the wider Dartmoor National Park, which encompasses these lakes, offers more challenging hikes. For instance, routes from Meldon Reservoir can lead up to Yes Tor. You can find challenging hiking routes in the area, such as the 'Oke Tor & Cosdon Beacon loop from Belstone' or 'Yes Tor summit – High Willhays summit loop from Belstone', by exploring the Hiking around Belstone guide.

Reservoirs like Meldon Reservoir offer opportunities for walking, hiking, and birdwatching. Fishing permits can also be purchased for fishing at Meldon. Roadford Lake, though a bit further afield, is a significant activity center offering various water sports. However, direct swimming and water activities are generally not allowed in Meldon Reservoir.

The lakes and surrounding Dartmoor area are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking and outdoor activities, while autumn brings vibrant colors. Winter can be starkly beautiful, but paths may be muddy or icy. Always check local conditions before visiting.

Many areas around the lakes and within Dartmoor National Park are dog-friendly, especially for walks. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, particularly near livestock or wildlife, and to check specific signage at each location for any restrictions.

Meldon Reservoir has a path that runs its full length, which is generally considered accessible for families. For specific wheelchair accessibility, it's advisable to check the terrain details for individual routes, as some paths may be uneven or unpaved.

Walks around the lakes can vary. For example, easy hikes around Belstone range from approximately 3.4 km to 7 km. You can find detailed route lengths and difficulties in the Easy hikes around Belstone guide.

Beyond walking and hiking, the area around Belstone and its lakes offers various outdoor activities. You can explore running trails, with options ranging from moderate to difficult, as detailed in the Running Trails around Belstone guide. The wider Dartmoor National Park also provides opportunities for cycling and birdwatching.