Top 4 Lakes around Coryton
Best lakes around Coryton are situated in a region characterized by its rolling hills, expansive moorland, and significant water bodies. This area, primarily in West Devon, features several large reservoirs and natural landscapes that offer opportunities for outdoor activities. The lakes here are integral to the local environment, providing habitats for wildlife and resources for the surrounding communities.
Best lakes around Coryton
- The most popular lakes is Meldon Reservoir, a natural monument that offers peace and quiet with excellent bird life. A path runs the full length of the reservoir, making it suitable for families.
- Another must-see spot is Dartmoor National Park, an expansive area featuring moorland, granite hilltops, and river valleys. This park is known for its ancient history and wild ponies.
- Visitors also love Roadford Lake, the largest area of water in the South West. It is used to supply drinking water and offers various watersports.
- Coryton is known for its large reservoirs, natural monuments, and areas within national parks. These water bodies provide diverse environments for exploration and recreation.
- The lakes around Coryton are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 160 upvotes and 18 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: August 8, 2026
Roadford Lake
Highlight • Lake
As a runner there isn't a trail that allows you to circumnavigate the lake, but you can run along the northeastern shore.
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Dartmoor National Park
Highlight • Lake
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Upper Tamar Lake Café
Highlight • Cafe
The lake has a large activity centre. Canoeing, fishing, archery and windsurfing amongst others.
The centre also has a fantastic cafe serving quality freshly prepared food and drink.
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Tips from the Community
Roadford Lake is a reservoir fed by the river Wolf. It's the largest area of water in the south-west and is used to supply drinking water for north and South Devon. As a runner there isn't a trail that allows you to circumnavigate the lake, but you can run along the northeastern shore.
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Roadford Lake is set just outside Dartmoor National Park so is the perfect place for a rolling ride with a backdrop of dramatic tors and hills. You can tur your hand at plenty of watersports here including sailing, kayaking, fishing and paddleboarding. For further details please see the website https://www.swlakestrust.org.uk/pages/site/activities/category/roadford-lake
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Picturesque freshwater lake. The largest freshwater lake in the Southwest. The lake has a large activity centre. Canoeing, fishing, archery and windsurfing amongst others. The centre also has a fantastic cafe serving quality freshly prepared food and drink.
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Meandering river valleys, expansive moorland, ancient history, and green countryside where wild ponies roam free – Dartmoor is a unique place to cycle. Covering a 368 sq mi (953 sq km) area, the vast moorlands and granite hilltops are just waiting to be discovered. You can find more information about visiting the park, here: https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes to visit near Coryton?
For a peaceful experience with excellent bird life and family-friendly paths, visit Meldon Reservoir. If you're interested in watersports and a larger body of water, Roadford Lake is the largest in the South West. For a picturesque freshwater lake with an activity center and cafe, consider Upper Tamar Lake.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Coryton?
Yes, both Meldon Reservoir and Roadford Lake are considered family-friendly. Meldon Reservoir has a path running its full length, suitable for families, and Roadford Lake offers various watersports. Upper Tamar Lake also has an activity center and cafe, making it a great family destination.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The area around Coryton offers diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and running. For hiking, consider routes like the 'Lydford Castle & Whitelady Waterfall loop' or 'Yes Tor summit – High Willhays summit loop'. Mountain biking options include 'Langstone Moor & Great Combe Tor loop'. For running, 'Meldon Viaduct – Dartmoor National Park loop' is popular. You can find more details on these and other routes in the hiking, MTB, and running guides for Coryton.
Are there good walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, Meldon Reservoir features a path that runs its entire length, perfect for walks. While Roadford Lake doesn't have a trail that circumnavigates the entire lake, you can walk along its northeastern shore. The wider area, including Dartmoor National Park, offers extensive walking opportunities.
Can I do watersports at the lakes near Coryton?
Yes, Roadford Lake is a prime location for watersports, including sailing, kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding. Upper Tamar Lake also has a large activity center offering canoeing, fishing, archery, and windsurfing.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes are excellent for wildlife observation. Meldon Reservoir is known for its excellent bird life. The broader region, including Dartmoor National Park, is home to diverse species, including wild ponies.
Are there cafes or facilities near the lakes?
Yes, Upper Tamar Lake has a fantastic cafe serving quality, freshly prepared food and drink, along with an activity center. Other lakes may have more limited facilities, so it's always good to check ahead.
Is there parking available at the lakes?
Yes, Meldon Reservoir offers parking at the dam wall, providing convenient access to the reservoir paths.
What makes Dartmoor National Park a significant feature near Coryton?
Dartmoor National Park is an expansive area featuring vast moorlands, granite hilltops, and meandering river valleys. It's renowned for its ancient history and the wild ponies that roam freely, offering a unique landscape for exploration and cycling.
Can I fish at the lakes around Coryton?
Yes, fishing is permitted at some lakes. You can purchase fishing permits to fish at Meldon Reservoir. Roadford Lake and Upper Tamar Lake also offer fishing opportunities as part of their watersports activities.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots around Coryton's lakes?
While the guide focuses on popular spots, the broader West Devon area, including the edges of Dartmoor National Park, holds many secluded river valleys and quiet corners waiting to be discovered beyond the main reservoirs. Exploring the numerous hiking and cycling routes can lead you to less-frequented, picturesque locations.
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