Clennon Lakes
A serene natural haven in Paignton, Clennon Lakes offers tranquil walks, abundant birdlife, and picturesque landscapes for nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Birdsong and new growth
Clennon Lakes
Best Time
Birdsong and new growth
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene natural haven in Paignton, Clennon Lakes offers tranquil walks, abundant birdlife, and picturesque landscapes for nature lovers.
"An absolutely beautiful set of 3 lakes, with great birdlife, and a great place to walk and get some exercise."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks
Leash your furry friends to protect wildlife. Some areas are designated for conservation work. :dog:
🦢 Respect the Wildlife
Observe birds from a distance. Some swans can be territorial, so be mindful.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Birdwatcher's Paradise
Throughout the lakes
Spot a variety of bird species, from resident swans to migratory visitors. Keep an eye out for rarer sightings like Hume's Leaf Warblers.
Scenic Walking Trails
Around the lakes
Enjoy peaceful strolls through reed beds and woodlands, offering beautiful landscapes and a connection with nature.
Memorial Meadow
Designated area
A special spot dedicated to conservation efforts, often featuring wildflowers and a quiet place for reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Wildlife Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks
Leash your furry friends to protect wildlife. Some areas are designated for conservation work. :dog:
🦢 Respect the Wildlife
Observe birds from a distance. Some swans can be territorial, so be mindful.
📸 Capture the Beauty
Bring your camera for stunning landscapes and diverse birdlife. Long exposure shots can be magical.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Trails can be uneven; wear sturdy shoes for enjoyable walks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks
Leash your furry friends to protect wildlife. Some areas are designated for conservation work. :dog:
🦢 Respect the Wildlife
Observe birds from a distance. Some swans can be territorial, so be mindful.
📸 Capture the Beauty
Bring your camera for stunning landscapes and diverse birdlife. Long exposure shots can be magical.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Trails can be uneven; wear sturdy shoes for enjoyable walks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Clennon Lakes is widely praised as a beautiful, tranquil spot perfect for nature walks and wildlife observation, especially birdwatching. Visitors appreciate the immaculate upkeep by volunteers and its proximity to Paignton. However, some reviews mention territorial swans and concerns about the impact of habitat changes on breeding success.
"Highly recommended. So good for taking a walk and connect with nature. You can see many brides of birds, and wonderful landscapes. Not too much people neither noise."
Raquel Gismero
"An absolutely beautiful set of 3 lakes, with great birdlife, unfortunately I didn’t get any kingfisher photographs, and I am told that an otter was seen last Sunday, but a great place to walk and get some exercise, walk the dog, and so close to Paignton. The volunteers who keep this place immaculate need our congratulations."
Jonathan Parr
"A hidden gem,and lots of wildlife and aggressive swan's"
Robert Leach
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Clennon Lakes are located in Paignton, Devon. They are easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Local bus routes also serve the area, making it convenient for public transport users.
Yes, there are parking facilities available close to the lakes, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Cycling is a great way to reach Clennon Lakes, especially if you're exploring the South Devon coast. The area is well-connected by local cycle paths.
Absolutely! Clennon Lakes are a short drive or bus ride from Torquay, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful day trip to enjoy nature and wildlife.
Walking and cycling are the most popular ways to explore Clennon Lakes and the surrounding Clennon Valley. The trails offer beautiful views and access to different parts of the lakes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Clennon Lakes is a natural reserve and is free to enter. You can enjoy the walking trails and wildlife without any admission fees.
Clennon Lakes is an open natural space and is accessible at all reasonable times. There are no set opening or closing hours.
While Clennon Lakes is a natural site, public toilet facilities may be limited. It's advisable to check local information or use facilities in nearby Paignton before your visit.
The memorial meadow is part of the Clennon Lakes area and is free to access. It's a space for reflection and appreciating the natural surroundings.
Yes, Clennon Lakes is open year-round and is a lovely destination to visit during holidays for a peaceful nature experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire area offers great photographic opportunities, from the lakes themselves to the surrounding reed beds and woodlands. Look for areas with good light and interesting wildlife. 
You can photograph a wide array of birds, including swans, warblers, and potentially kingfishers or even otters. The diverse flora also provides beautiful subjects.
Yes, the tranquil lakes, reflections, and surrounding greenery make it a picturesque spot for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
A telephoto lens is useful for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be great for landscapes, and a tripod can help with long exposures.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. This is also when wildlife is often most active.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The main activities include walking, birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the peaceful natural environment. It's a great place for a relaxing stroll.
Yes, families can enjoy the walking trails and spotting wildlife. It's a safe and natural environment for children to explore, though supervision is recommended.
Picnicking is generally permitted in natural areas like Clennon Lakes. Find a scenic spot and enjoy your meal surrounded by nature. Remember to take all your litter with you.
Yes, there are ongoing conservation efforts, including the maintenance of memorial meadows and reed beds, often supported by local volunteers.
You can expect to see a variety of waterfowl, resident birds like swans and robins, and potentially migratory species such as warblers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It’s a great place to teach kids about nature and conservation in a relaxed setting. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, and keep a close eye on children, especially near the water and any potentially territorial wildlife like swans. 🐶 Dog Owners
While dogs are welcome, it's essential to keep them on a lead to protect the local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Be mindful of other visitors and the natural habitat, and always clean up after your pet. 📸 Photographers
+1 Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing stunning shots of wildlife and reflections on the water. Consider bringing a telephoto lens for wildlife and a wide-angle lens for broader scenic views. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wildlife of Clennon Lakes
Beyond avian life, there are occasional reports of otters being spotted in the lakes, adding an element of excitement for nature enthusiasts.
While the wildlife is a major draw, it's important to remember that this is a natural habitat. Visitors are advised to observe animals from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them.
Exploring the Trails and Landscapes
The landscapes are characterized by the reflective surfaces of the lakes, bordered by lush greenery and trees, creating picturesque scenes throughout the year. These trails are also popular for dog walking, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for pets to explore.
The area is well-suited for photography, with opportunities for both landscape shots capturing the overall scenery and close-ups of the flora and fauna. The changing seasons bring different visual appeals, from the vibrant greens of spring and summer to the warm hues of autumn. For those interested in conservation, the memorial meadow is a notable feature, offering a quiet space for reflection amidst the natural surroundings.
The accessibility of these trails, combined with their natural beauty, makes Clennon Lakes a cherished local spot for recreation and connecting with nature. 
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