Meldon Reservoir
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Meldon Reservoir

4.7
·167 reviews·, United Kingdom

A stunning reservoir in Dartmoor National Park, offering scenic walks, the impressive Meldon Viaduct, and a gateway to wild adventures.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Meldon Reservoir

Meldon Reservoir

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning reservoir in Dartmoor National Park, offering scenic walks, the impressive Meldon Viaduct, and a gateway to wild adventures.

4.7
(167 reviews)

"Wonderful views and an amazing location to go hiking/walking."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Payment

Parking at Meldon Reservoir is card or app only (Ringo app). No cash accepted! 💳

🥾 Sturdy Footwear

Wear good walking boots; trails can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:

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Quick Facts

Rating

4.7 · 167 reviews

Type

Natural Feature

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Meldon Viaduct

Meldon Viaduct

Over Meldon Reservoir

An impressive Victorian railway viaduct offering panoramic views of the surrounding moorland and reservoir.

Meldon Reservoir Walk

Meldon Reservoir Walk

Around the reservoir

A scenic circular route perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike, showcasing the reservoir's beauty.

Dartmoor National Park Views

Dartmoor National Park Views

Various viewpoints

Experience the rugged, untamed beauty of Dartmoor with its tors, valleys, and vast open spaces.

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Planning Your Visit

Wild Camping & Parking

Wild camping is permitted in Dartmoor National Park, but be aware of specific rules and designated areas. Parking is available at Meldon Reservoir, but it's not free and overnight stays are prohibited. Plan your parking strategy in advance, especially if arriving early or late.

Leave No Trace

Dartmoor is a pristine natural environment. Visitors are urged to practice 'Leave No Trace' principles. Pack out all trash, including dog waste, as bins are scarce. Respect the landscape and wildlife for a sustainable visit.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light, stunning colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Quieter, beautiful sunset views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A 50km Wildcamping & Backpacking adventure across Dartmoor National Park! For anyone who’s never been wild camping at Dartmoor National Park, I highly encourage you to get it planned…. I just completed this stunning 50km circular route in a weekend from Friday evening to Sunday evening and honestly it was an experience of a lifetime. The trip I did here was as followed along with some hopefully ...
@tomproutt
68.5K likes • 537.2K views

🚗 Parking Payment

Parking at Meldon Reservoir is card or app only (Ringo app). No cash accepted! 💳

🥾 Sturdy Footwear

Wear good walking boots; trails can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:

You must visit Dartmoor! #dartmoor #nationalpark #Outdoors #adventure
@shewalksinengland
7.5K likes • 106.3K views
most underrated part of the UK #dartmoor #Hiking #hike #fyp #granola #passenger #nationaltrust #lynford #hiddengems #merrell #northface #capcut #england #wistmanswood #travel #trending #walk #views #nature #naturetok #Summer #24 #CapCut
@ewanhikes
671 likes • 9.9K views

🗑️ Pack It In, Pack It Out

There are no bins! Take all your rubbish with you, including dog waste. :wastebasket:

🗺️ Navigation is Key

Consider a map and compass or a reliable GPS app for exploring beyond the main paths. 🧭

6 Things To Do In Dartmoor National Park! 🥾 🇬🇧 #dartmoor #dartmoornationalpark #visitdevon #devontravel #traveldevon #devontiktok #uktravel #uktravellers #ukadventure #adventuretravel #hikeuk #ukhiking #traveladventure #uktrip #visitengland #englandtravel #travelengland #thingstodoindartmoor #dartmoorhikes
@cjexplores
473 likes • 27K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Payment

Parking at Meldon Reservoir is card or app only (Ringo app). No cash accepted! 💳

🥾 Sturdy Footwear

Wear good walking boots; trails can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:

🗑️ Pack It In, Pack It Out

There are no bins! Take all your rubbish with you, including dog waste. :wastebasket:

🗺️ Navigation is Key

Consider a map and compass or a reliable GPS app for exploring beyond the main paths. 🧭

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Limited facilities on the trails, so pack plenty of water and snacks for your adventure. :apple:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(167 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Meldon Reservoir for its beautiful scenery and excellent walking opportunities, particularly the circular route and views of the viaduct. The availability of toilets and EV chargers is a plus. However, the cost of parking and the lack of bins are recurring criticisms, leading to issues with litter and dog waste.

"Lovely little trail, payed parking £3.40 for 3h, no sleeping in carpark overnight. Toilet facilities available. EV charger"

Francesco Plazzotta

"And absolutely beautiful place to visit with lots of walks and a large car park. The only criticism I have is that there are no rubbish bins or dog poop bins. There were quite a few cars with poop bags hanging from there rear window wipers, including mine! 🙄"

Kate Laubscher

"Wonderful views and an amazing location to go hiking/walking. I travel here yearly with the family and it is always a wonderful time."

Hannah Grimshaw

What People Like

Beautiful views
Great walking trails
Impressive viaduct

What People Dislike

Expensive parking
No rubbish bins

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Meldon Reservoir is accessible by car, with a dedicated car park. It's located near Okehampton in Dartmoor National Park. Public transport options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach it. TikTok

While possible, reaching Meldon Reservoir via public transport can be challenging and time-consuming. Check local bus routes for Okehampton and be prepared for a significant walk or taxi ride from the nearest stops. TikTok

From Okehampton, follow signs for the Meldon Reservoir car park. The roads are generally well-maintained, but can be narrow and winding as you get closer to the reservoir. TikTok

No, overnight parking is not permitted at the Meldon Reservoir car park. Visitors are advised to leave before the car park closes. Reddit

Yes, there are EV charging points available at the Meldon Reservoir car park, making it convenient for electric vehicle owners. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entrance fee to access Meldon Reservoir itself, but the car park does have a charge. Reddit

Parking at Meldon Reservoir costs approximately £3.40 for 3 hours, but prices can vary. It's best to check current rates on arrival or via the Ringo app. Reddit

Meldon Reservoir is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible at all times. The car park will have specific operating hours. TikTok

No, cash is not accepted for parking at Meldon Reservoir. You must use a card or the Ringo app to pay. Reddit

No, tickets are not required for entry to Meldon Reservoir. Parking payment is on-site. Reddit

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The most popular walk is the circular route around the reservoir, offering lovely views. You can also explore trails leading to Meldon Viaduct and into the wider Dartmoor National Park. TikTok+1

The circular walk is generally considered moderate. Some sections can be uneven and a little tough, especially after rain, but it's manageable for most fitness levels. Reddit

Yes, toilet facilities are available at the Meldon Reservoir car park. Reddit

Swimming is generally not recommended or permitted in Meldon Reservoir due to safety reasons and water quality. Stick to designated areas for water activities if available elsewhere in Dartmoor. TikTok

Yes, Meldon Reservoir is a wonderful place for families. The circular walk is enjoyable, and the open spaces are great for kids to explore. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Meldon Viaduct offers dramatic perspectives, especially with the reservoir in the background. The reflections on the water and the expansive moorland views are also prime photography locations. TikTok

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour during autumn can be particularly spectacular. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes and the viaduct. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water and enhance the sky. TikTok

Drone usage in Dartmoor National Park is subject to regulations. Always check the latest guidelines from the National Park Authority and ensure you have permission if required. TikTok

Each season offers unique photographic opportunities. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, autumn provides stunning colors, and winter can create dramatic, moody landscapes. TikTok

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