Trenchford and Tottiford Reservoirs
Tranquil reservoirs on Dartmoor offering flat, scenic walks perfect for families, dog owners, and nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and refreshing
Trenchford and Tottiford Reservoirs
Best Time
Peaceful and refreshing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tranquil reservoirs on Dartmoor offering flat, scenic walks perfect for families, dog owners, and nature lovers.
"A beautiful place, so picturesque and peaceful. A picnic after the walk finished the day off lovely! "
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paths
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead. Enjoy the shaded, flat routes perfect for your canine companions. :dog:
🅿️ Parking & Access
Pay and display parking available (coins or app). Arrive early for limited spots. :parking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tottiford Reservoir
Dartmoor
The oldest reservoir, built in 1861, offering peaceful, crystal-clear waters surrounded by trees.
Trenchford Reservoir
Dartmoor
A picturesque setting with flat, easy-to-walk paths perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Venford Reservoir
Dartmoor
Experience a frosty morning walk with serene nature sounds and beautiful river views.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dog Walking Paradise
Picnic & Peace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paths
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead. Enjoy the shaded, flat routes perfect for your canine companions. :dog:
🅿️ Parking & Access
Pay and display parking available (coins or app). Arrive early for limited spots. :parking:
🧺 Picnic Spots
Plenty of picnic benches and scattered seating for a relaxing break amidst nature. :picnic_table:
💧 Toilet Facilities
Toilets are available but can have strong odors. Bring hand sanitizer. :toilet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paths
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead. Enjoy the shaded, flat routes perfect for your canine companions. :dog:
🅿️ Parking & Access
Pay and display parking available (coins or app). Arrive early for limited spots. :parking:
🧺 Picnic Spots
Plenty of picnic benches and scattered seating for a relaxing break amidst nature. :picnic_table:
💧 Toilet Facilities
Toilets are available but can have strong odors. Bring hand sanitizer. :toilet:
🚶♀️ Easy Walking Trails
Flat, easy paths are great for all ages, though some sections may be narrow for buggies. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the picturesque and peaceful nature of Trenchford and Tottiford Reservoirs, highlighting them as ideal spots for dog walking and family outings. The flat, easy paths are a major plus, though some note the toilet facilities could be improved and parking can be limited. Overall, it's a highly recommended destination for a relaxing nature escape.
"Took the dog for a walk around Trenchford and Tottiford reservoir, the route we had taken took us an hour to walk around without any real stops. Good place to walk the dog in the day as very shaded and with plenty of water available for them. Dogs must stay on leads, the paths were easy to walk and as its a reservoir its nice and flat. There is limited parking but not many people know about this place I guess, so there was no issue for us at 11am. 20 min drive from Finlake holiday park. Mostly main roads."
Gareth Cooper
"Beautiful place, so picturesque and peaceful. A picnic after the walk finished the day off lovely!
Easy to get to from Exeter, about a 45 minutes drive (give or take). Pay and display car park (coins only) or pay by the app.
Toilets at entrance to walk, but they stink so bad of urine that you can't stay in there too long. Take hand sanitiser.
Picnic benches around car park, and lots of seating benches dotted about throughout the walk.
A wonderful place especially in the warm weather!"
Emma
"Absolutely beautiful place to visit. Fantastic walk, picnic area & parking (Pay & Display). Had a lovely quiet walk."
Bec
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
It's about a 45-minute drive from Exeter to the reservoirs. The route is mostly on main roads, making it a straightforward journey.
Yes, there is a pay and display car park. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak times, as parking can be limited.
Yes, you can pay for parking using the app or with coins.
The paths are generally flat and easy to walk, making them suitable for children. However, some sections can be narrow, which might be challenging for buggies.
Trenchford and Tottiford Reservoirs are about a 20-minute drive from Finlake Holiday Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a pay and display parking fee, but entry to the reservoirs and walking paths is free.
The reservoirs are generally accessible during daylight hours for walking and recreation. There are no specific opening or closing times posted for the walking areas.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance. Parking is on a pay and display basis.
While there are no strict opening hours for the walking paths, it's best to visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment.
The walking paths themselves are free to access. The only charge is for parking.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
A leisurely walk around the reservoirs is highly recommended. The flat paths are perfect for enjoying the scenery and peaceful atmosphere.
Yes, toilets are located at the entrance to the walk. However, visitors have noted they can have a strong odor.
While some TikTok videos mention wild swimming at Tottiford Reservoir, it's important to check local regulations and safety guidelines before attempting to swim.
The reservoirs are surrounded by trees and offer a natural habitat, so you can expect to see various birdlife and other small woodland creatures.
Absolutely! The picturesque and peaceful setting, with clear waters and surrounding trees, makes it a great spot for nature photography. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no cafes or restaurants directly at the reservoirs. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic.
Yes, there are picnic benches around the car park and many seating benches dotted throughout the walk, making it an ideal picnic spot.
Bring your own food, drinks, and any picnic essentials. Don't forget hand sanitizer due to the toilet facilities.
You'll likely need to drive back towards Exeter or other nearby towns for a wider selection of dining options.
The peaceful and picturesque setting makes it a lovely spot for a quiet, romantic picnic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the paths are generally good, be aware that some sections can be narrow, which might make navigating with a buggy a bit tricky. The presence of water is also a great draw for curious little ones, but always ensure they are supervised closely, especially if considering any water-based activities.
🐶 Dog Owners
The easy terrain means you can cover a good distance without too much strain, making it ideal for longer walks. The peaceful atmosphere ensures a relaxing experience for both you and your dog.
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Photographers
The well-maintained, flat paths are ideal for a leisurely walk, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty. Keep an eye out for local birdlife and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the countryside.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Dartmoor Reservoirs
These reservoirs are particularly popular for their accessible walking paths. The routes are predominantly flat, making them ideal for leisurely strolls, dog walking, and family outings. While the paths are generally easy, some sections can be narrow, so keep this in mind if you're planning to use a buggy. The abundance of water also makes it a refreshing spot for dogs, though they must remain on a lead.
Visitors often combine their visit with a picnic, as benches are available both near the car park and along the walking trails. While toilet facilities are present, be aware that they may not be in the best condition. The overall experience is one of peace and natural beauty, offering a welcome respite from busier tourist spots.
Wild Swimming at Tottiford Reservoir
However, it's crucial to approach wild swimming with caution. Always check for local advisories or restrictions regarding swimming in reservoirs, as safety and water quality can vary. If you do decide to swim, ensure you are a confident swimmer and are aware of the potential risks associated with open water.
For those who prefer to stay dry, the reservoir still offers a beautiful environment for walking and enjoying the scenery. The surrounding paths provide excellent vantage points to appreciate the water and the woodland.
Social
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