Top 6 Lakes around Northlew

The lakes in the Northlew area offer a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and cycling trails at places like Meldon Reservoir and Burrator Reservoir. Siblyback Lake is known for water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, while fishing is popular at Burrator Reservoir, Siblyback Lake, and Wistlandpound Reservoir. For more extensive outdoor adventures, Dartmoor National Park provides vast moorlands for cycling and exploring.

Yes, several lakes are great for families. Meldon Reservoir has a path suitable for families along its full length. Canonteign Falls offers adventure playgrounds, a zip wire, and woodland trails with hidden fairies. Burrator Reservoir features a circular route suitable for families, and Siblyback Lake provides a children's play area and accessible paths for pushchairs.

Siblyback Lake on the edge of Bodmin Moor is particularly inclusive, featuring a 5km (3-mile) lakeside path that is accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Meldon Reservoir also has a path along its full length, making it suitable for leisurely strolls.

For those interested in wild swimming, Cullever Pool is noted as a wonderful spot for a natural dip. Please note that swimming is generally not permitted in reservoirs like Meldon Reservoir or Meldon Quarry Lake due to safety regulations.

Yes, Meldon Quarry Lake was once an active quarry with an industrial history dating back to the late 1700s. Burrator Reservoir also has a rich history, with the Burrator Discovery Centre offering insights into the area's past. Canonteign Falls, while known for its natural beauty, is set within ancient woodland and features a Victorian Fern Garden.

Meldon Reservoir is an excellent spot for peace and quiet, known for its abundant bird life. Burrator Reservoir provides a habitat for diverse wildlife, making it great for nature enthusiasts. Wistlandpound Reservoir in Exmoor National Park is also a popular destination for birdwatching, with a bird hide available at Siblyback Lake.

Fishing is a popular activity at several lakes. You can purchase fishing permits for Meldon Reservoir. Fishing for rainbow and brown trout is also popular at Burrator Reservoir (permits required) and Siblyback Lake. It's advisable to check with the specific lake's management for current permit requirements and regulations.

Many lakes offer facilities for visitors. Canonteign Falls has a cafe and shop. Siblyback Lake provides a cafe, children's play area, and a campsite. While specific cafes are not listed for all locations, popular spots like Burrator Reservoir and Roadford Lake often have visitor centers or nearby amenities.

Yes, Siblyback Lake is part of an International Dark Sky Landscape, making it an excellent spot for stargazing due to its minimal light pollution and clear night skies.

You can find various cycling routes around the lakes. Dartmoor National Park offers extensive opportunities for cycling across its moorlands. There are also specific MTB trails around the area, such as those near Meldon Quarry Lake and Meldon Reservoir. For road cycling, routes like the 'Scenic Road Stretch' or 'Beam Aqueduct' are available. You can explore more options in the Road Cycling Routes around Northlew guide or the MTB Trails around Northlew guide.

Yes, there are several running trails. For instance, you can find routes like the 'High Willhays and Yes Tor loop from Meldon Reservoir' or the 'Meldon Dam – View of Meldon Reservoir loop from Sourton'. While Roadford Lake doesn't have a full circular trail, you can run along its northeastern shore. More running options are detailed in the Running Trails around Northlew guide.

Roadford Lake is the largest area of water in the South West, primarily used to supply drinking water for North and South Devon. It's a fantastic spot for various water sports, including sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, set against a backdrop of dramatic tors and hills just outside Dartmoor National Park.

The lakes are beautiful year-round, but the best time often depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer warmer weather for water sports and longer days for exploring trails. Autumn provides stunning foliage, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours. Always check local conditions before your visit.