Top 7 Lakes around Dean Prior

While Dean Prior itself doesn't have notable lakes, the surrounding South Hams district and nearby Dartmoor National Park offer a variety of options. You'll find natural pools, reservoirs, and lakes set amidst open moorland, woodlands, and historical industrial sites.

Yes, Crazywell Pool is considered a prime location for wild swimming on Dartmoor. Additionally, Left Lake, with its peaty bottom, warms up well after a few days of sunshine, making it suitable for a quick dip.

Many lakes offer beautiful views. Avon Dam Reservoir provides a beautiful panorama of moorland surroundings. Crazywell Pool is also noted as a viewpoint, offering stunning vistas of the deep hidden pool and its surroundings. Venford Reservoir is hidden amongst sprawling moorland and offers great views with two climbs/descents on either side.

Yes, Redlake Pool is a natural monument featuring historical industrial remnants from china clay extraction (1912-1933). You can still see signs of the narrow gauge railway track and ruins of a hostel where workers stayed.

Around Venford Reservoir, you can expect to see varied wildlife, along with sheep and wild ponies. Similarly, Avon Dam Reservoir is set in quintessential moorland surroundings where cattle, sheep, and Dartmoor ponies can often be seen grazing.

Yes, both Avon Dam Reservoir and Venford Reservoir are considered family-friendly. Avon Dam offers a gentle climb along a smooth tarmac service road, while Venford Reservoir has a flat loop around it, suitable for families to explore the surrounding woodland and moorland.

The area around Dean Prior and its lakes is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, and gravel biking. For detailed routes, explore the hiking guide, cycling guide, and gravel biking guide for Dean Prior.

Yes, there are several hiking routes that pass by or lead to these lakes. For instance, the Two Moors Way trail passes by Left Lake. You can find routes like the 'Avon Dam Reservoir loop from Reddacleave Kiln Cross' in the hiking guide for Dean Prior.

The best time to visit for walking and outdoor activities is generally from spring to autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and days are longer. However, Dartmoor's landscape offers a unique, often dramatic beauty in all seasons, including winter, though conditions can be challenging.

Given the varied terrain, especially on Dartmoor, it's advisable to wear sturdy walking boots. Layered clothing is recommended as weather conditions can change quickly. Waterproofs are always a good idea, regardless of the forecast, due to the unpredictable nature of moorland weather.

Yes, Venford Reservoir offers a flat circular loop, perfect for a leisurely stroll. For other circular routes that may include lake views, consult the hiking guide for Dean Prior.

Visitors particularly enjoy the remote and wild Dartmoor landscape, especially around spots like Redlake Pool. The opportunity for wild swimming at Crazywell Pool is also a big draw. Many appreciate the beautiful woodland and moorland exploration opportunities, along with spotting varied wildlife and Dartmoor ponies.