Best lakes around Sticklepath are found within the wider Dartmoor National Park, as the village itself is characterized by rivers and traditional water channels like the River Taw and historical leats. This area, nestled on the northern edge of Dartmoor, features woods, fields, and hedgebanks, offering picturesque natural landscapes. While large lakes are not immediately within Sticklepath, the surrounding region provides various water bodies for exploration. Visitors can find a mix of reservoirs, quarry lakes, and riverine swimming spots that…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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doesn't seem likely that this is so close when you are crossing the bridge. it's a little downstream of the bridge.
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Today the old Meldon Quarry plays host to many visitors, some come to walk or cycle, others to swim, a few come for some extreme sports such a bungee jumping whilst others visit the remains of the redundant railway. For whatever reason what they see today is normally a peaceful landscape, albeit an industrial one, however not that long ago it would have been a hive of activity. It’s believed that the first quarrying began around the late 1700s when the local limestone was extracted. Over the years this gradually gave over to aggregate quarrying and apelite quarrying until its final closure. The original owners of the quarry was the London and South Western Railway and then came Britsh Rail and finally EEC Aggregates.
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This is a great spot for peace and quiet and the bird life is excellent. With a path that runs the full length of the reservoir, this is a great place to take the family. There is paring at the dam wall and routes that go up to Yes tor from there. This is not a swimming dam and not water activities are allowed on it. You can purchase fishing permits and fish here if you so desire.
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While Sticklepath village itself features rivers like the River Taw and historical leats, the wider Dartmoor National Park area offers a variety of water bodies. You can explore reservoirs, quarry lakes, and riverine swimming spots, providing diverse natural experiences.
Yes, for wild swimming, Cullever Pool is a popular river swim spot known for its wonderful wild swimming opportunities. Additionally, Cullever Steps Pool on the East Okement River, between Belstone and Okehampton Camp, is another well-regarded location for wild swimming.
Meldon Reservoir is an excellent choice for peace and quiet, offering superb bird life. A path runs the full length of the reservoir, making it ideal for a tranquil stroll.
Absolutely. Meldon Reservoir has a path that extends its entire length, with routes leading up to Yes Tor. For more extensive hiking, you can explore various trails in the area, including those found in the Hiking around Sticklepath guide, which features routes like the Tarka the Otter Bridge – Finch Foundry loop.
Meldon Reservoir is considered family-friendly, with a path suitable for walks along its length. For a broader range of activities, Burrator Reservoir in Yelverton and Siblyback Lake in Liskeard (Cornwall) are also noted as suitable for all ages, offering both indoor and outdoor activities.
Meldon Quarry Lake, formed from a former quarry, is on private land. While it offers a peaceful, industrial landscape for walking or cycling, swimming is not permitted. Historically, the area has also been used for extreme sports like bungee jumping.
Yes, the area around Sticklepath and its lakes offers several cycling opportunities. You can find various routes, including the Meldon Viaduct loop, in the MTB Trails around Sticklepath guide.
Fishing is permitted at Meldon Reservoir, where you can purchase fishing permits. Kennick Reservoir also has paths around its southern half reserved for anglers.
Beyond the immediate vicinity of Sticklepath, the wider Dartmoor area features several significant lakes and reservoirs. These include Burrator Reservoir, Kennick Reservoir (which connects to Tottiford Reservoir), Avon Dam Reservoir, and Foggintor Quarry Lake, known for its deep, clear water.
Yes, there are easy walks available. The path along Meldon Reservoir is suitable for an easy stroll. For more options, the Easy hikes around Sticklepath guide provides routes like the Belstone to Sticklepath loop and the East Okement River Trail loop.
The area is rich in natural beauty, characterized by woods, fields, hedgebanks, and the meandering River Taw. You'll encounter picturesque riverine scenes, traditional water channels like leats, and the more expansive landscapes surrounding reservoirs and quarry lakes within Dartmoor National Park.


Still not found your perfect lake around Sticklepath? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.