Radford Park and Lake
A serene natural escape in Plymouth, featuring a tranquil lake, woodland trails, abundant wildlife, and historical ruins.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beautiful blooming trees
Radford Park and Lake
Best Time
Beautiful blooming trees
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene natural escape in Plymouth, featuring a tranquil lake, woodland trails, abundant wildlife, and historical ruins.
"A beautiful park with an equal amount of open grass plains and winding woodland passages."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Your furry friends will love exploring the trails and open spaces. Keep them on a lead where necessary.
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Bring a blanket and enjoy a meal with stunning views. Plenty of benches available too.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Radford Lake Wildlife
Radford Lake
Spot diverse birdlife, swans, and ducks in this peaceful, natural setting. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Woodland Trails
Surrounding woodlands
Wander through enchanting woods along the river's edge, offering a tranquil and scenic walking experience.
Hooe Lake Estuary
Hooe Lake
Explore the estuary and discover fascinating historical ruins and shipwrecks. A unique blend of nature and history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Accessibility & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Your furry friends will love exploring the trails and open spaces. Keep them on a lead where necessary.
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Bring a blanket and enjoy a meal with stunning views. Plenty of benches available too.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths can be muddy and have roots, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
🗺️ Explore Multiple Routes
Choose from various paths, from flat, accessible trails to more challenging woodland routes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Your furry friends will love exploring the trails and open spaces. Keep them on a lead where necessary.
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Bring a blanket and enjoy a meal with stunning views. Plenty of benches available too.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths can be muddy and have roots, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
🗺️ Explore Multiple Routes
Choose from various paths, from flat, accessible trails to more challenging woodland routes.
📸 Nature Photography
Capture the beauty of the wildlife and landscapes. Early mornings offer great light.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Radford Park and Lake as a beautiful, peaceful escape with abundant wildlife and scenic walking trails. It's a beloved spot for picnics and dog walking, offering a tranquil natural environment with historical ruins adding to its charm. Some visitors note the lack of on-site toilet facilities and the occasional muddy paths.
"Really nice picnic area and great for nature watching. Parking available on site with a little cafe."
Anseroy Browne
"Our favorite Park. Beautiful trees blooming spring time. Nice place for a picnic with an amazing view. Perfect for a walk, kind can see lots of different birds, jump bin big muddy puddles. You could go through the woods by the Hooe Lake to the Playground there is also a pub if you would like to stop somewhere after long walk."
Małgorzata Drążkiewicz
"A beautiful park with an equal amount of open grass plains and winding woodland passages which surrounds the peaceful Radford Lake and it's large array of wildlife. The park is littered with interesting historical ruins around the circuit of the lake and the fascinating shipwrecks to be found in the adjoining Hooe Lake. Although this park is perfect for picnics, dog walking and afternoon strolls I was unable to award it a perfect rating. There are no toilet facilities and nowhere to purchase refreshments. There is a small car park to be found at the entrance on Mayer Way and on street parking at the entrances at Plymstock Road and Kingfisher Way. The park is largely disabled access friendly (except for the lack of a toilet) however I would avoid the Mayer's Way entrance if access is a priority and use the Plymstock Road and Kingfisher Way as your initial point of entry."
Jakk Folley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Radford Park and Lake is located in the Plymstock area of Plymouth. You can access it via Mayer Way, Plymstock Road, or Kingfisher Way. Parking is available at these entrances.
Yes, there is a small car park at the Mayer Way entrance and on-street parking is available at the Plymstock Road and Kingfisher Way entrances.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed, checking local Plymouth bus services for routes serving Plymstock would be advisable.
It's described as a 'hidden gem' tucked away in Plymstock, so using a GPS or map is recommended.
For better accessibility, it's recommended to use the Plymstock Road and Kingfisher Way entrances rather than Mayer Way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Radford Park and Lake is a public park and entry is free.
As a public park, it is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times mentioned.
No, tickets are not required as it is a free public park.
The park is dog-friendly, but it's always good practice to be mindful of wildlife and other visitors.
While not officially stated, public parks are typically best enjoyed during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can see a large array of wildlife, including swans, ducks, and various other birds.
Unfortunately, there are no toilet facilities within the park itself.
Yes, it's a great place for kids to enjoy nature, spot wildlife, and play in the open grassy areas.
Absolutely! It's a very dog-friendly park with plenty of space for them to roam.
The park is largely accessible, though some paths may have roots or inclines. The Plymstock Road and Kingfisher Way entrances are recommended for easier access.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a small cafe mentioned in some reviews, but it's not consistently available. It's best to bring your own refreshments.
Yes, it's an excellent spot for picnics with open grass plains and benches.
There is a pub mentioned that you could stop at after a long walk, suggesting it's in the vicinity.
Given its tucked-away location, it's advisable to purchase any food or drinks before arriving or plan a stop in Plymstock.
There are no specific mentions of barbecue facilities, so it's best to assume it's not permitted to avoid any issues.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers great opportunities for nature photography, especially of the wildlife on the lake and the scenic woodland paths.
Early mornings often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing serene landscapes and wildlife.
Yes, the park features interesting historical ruins around the lake circuit and shipwrecks in Hooe Lake.
A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, and perhaps a wider lens for the woodland paths, would be beneficial.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local bylaws and park rules before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the park is largely accessible for pushchairs, it's wise to be prepared for potentially muddy paths after rain. The absence of on-site toilets means packing essentials is key for a smooth family outing. The nearby pub also offers a convenient stop for refreshments after a day of exploration.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog under control, especially near wildlife and other visitors. The varied terrain means your dog will get a good workout, and the natural environment provides plenty of sensory stimulation.
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Picnickers
Enjoy the tranquility and the opportunity to reconnect with nature. The combination of the lake, woods, and open spaces offers a refreshing escape from the everyday.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Wildlife Haven
For those interested in birdwatching, the park offers excellent opportunities. The presence of historical ruins and shipwrecks in the adjoining Hooe Lake adds a unique layer to the natural beauty, making it a fascinating place for both nature lovers and history buffs. The combination of serene water bodies and lush greenery creates a picturesque backdrop for spotting wildlife.
Navigating the Trails and Accessibility
Walkers can tailor their route to their preference, making it as long or as short as needed. The trails lead through beautiful woods along the river's edge, connecting to green fields and the lake. This variety ensures that everyone, from casual strollers to more active hikers, can find a route that suits them.
Historical Echoes and Hidden Gems
These historical elements, combined with the serene natural landscape, make Radford Park and Lake a unique destination. It's often described as a 'lovely little gem' and a 'hidden green peace of peace and quiet heaven', highlighting its appeal as a tranquil escape with a touch of history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit