Top 6 Lakes in Exmoor
Best lakes in Exmoor National Park are set within a region known for its rugged landscapes and rich ecosystems. This area offers diverse experiences, from tranquil waterside walks to active watersports. Exmoor's natural features include expansive moorland, deep valleys, and significant water bodies that contribute to its unique character. The lakes provide opportunities to connect with nature and explore the varied terrain.
Best lakes in Exmoor
- The most popular lakes is Crook Pool, a natural swimming spot that features interesting pools and an island set in the forested banks of the East Lyn river. This spot is loved by visitors for its natural setting.
- Another must-see spot is Pinkery Pond, an artificial lake located high on Exmoor's moorland. Visitors can expect a remote setting with deep red peat-infused water, known as a freshwater swimming spot accessible from the Tarka Trail.
- Visitors also love View of Wimbleball Lake from Bessom Bridge, which offers excellent views of the lake on both sides. This bridge provides a vantage point over the northernmost section of Wimbleball Lake.
- Exmoor is known for its artificial reservoirs, natural pools, and river-fed lakes. The variety of lakes to see and explore includes large man-made bodies of water and more secluded natural spots.
- The lakes in Exmoor are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 20 upvotes and over 25 photos shared by users.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
Pinkery Pond
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Nutscale Reservoir
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Wimbleball Dam
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Crook Pool
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View of Wimbleball Lake from Bessom Bridge
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Tips from the Community
Moderate trail for everyone to explore and enjoy
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A beautiful and tranquil lake, high on Exmoor. It's around a mile's walk from the YHA layby on the B3358, but well worth it. The pond is a great spot for wild swimming, amongst the lillies in the beautiful deep red peat-infused water.
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Nutscale Reservoir is a reservoir located in Exmoor in the northwest Somerset, England. It supplies the town of Minehead and nearby Porlock and Porlock Weir. The reservoir is part of the River Horner catchment area and is dammed.
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Bessom Bridge gives spectacular views on both sides up and down the lake.
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If you pay attention, from this point on the path, you'll have good views of Nutscale Reservoir surrounded by beautiful countryside and hills. This reservoir, with water from the River Horner, used to supply Minehead, Porlock, and Porlock Weir, but now it serves just a few properties. It was constructed in 1942.
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This dam was constructed in two phases, beginning in 1974 and completed in 1978. Due to a dry winter and the need for water during the summers of the two following years, the lake did not overflow until 1980.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly lakes in Exmoor National Park?
Yes, Exmoor offers several family-friendly lakes. Crook Pool is a popular natural swimming spot with interesting pools and an island, loved by kids. Wimbleball Dam and the surrounding Wimbleball Lake area also offer facilities like a play area, café, and easy walking trails suitable for families.
Can I go wild swimming in Exmoor's lakes?
Yes, wild swimming is a popular activity at some of Exmoor's lakes. Pinkery Pond is known as a beautiful freshwater swimming spot with deep red peat-infused water, accessible from the Tarka Trail. Crook Pool is another excellent natural swimming spot in the East Lyn river.
What watersports are available on Exmoor's lakes?
Wimbleball Lake is a hub for watersports. Visitors can enjoy sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, rowing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. An activity centre at the lake provides courses and equipment hire. Anglers can also enjoy fishing for rainbow trout, with boats available for hire.
Are there good hiking trails around Exmoor's lakes?
Absolutely. Wimbleball Lake offers a challenging 9-mile 'Lakeside Round Walk' and shorter, leisurely options. Wistlandpound Reservoir also has walking and cycling trails. For more extensive hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Valley of the Rocks, Lynton & Lynmouth' or 'Tarr Steps & Withypool loop' which are part of the wider hiking guide for Exmoor.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around Exmoor's lakes?
Exmoor's lakes are havens for wildlife. Wimbleball Lake is excellent for birdwatching and spotting various wildfowl, as well as mammals like hedgehogs, weasels, and the iconic Exmoor red deer. Wistlandpound Reservoir is also known for its diverse birdlife and tranquil setting for nature observation.
Do Exmoor's lakes have any historical significance?
Yes, some lakes have interesting histories. Pinkery Pond is an artificial lake created around 1830 by John Knight, a prominent land improver. Visitors can explore a tunnel that was part of its original construction. Nutscale Reservoir, constructed in 1942, historically supplied fresh water to nearby towns like Minehead and Porlock.
Are there car parks available at Exmoor's lakes?
Yes, major lakes like Wimbleball Lake and Wistlandpound Reservoir have dedicated car parking facilities for visitors. For more remote spots like Pinkery Pond, access often involves parking at nearby laybys or trailheads and walking in.
When is the best time of year to visit Exmoor's lakes?
The best time to visit Exmoor's lakes generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for watersports, hiking, and enjoying the vibrant natural scenery. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer a tranquil, rugged experience, especially for stargazing at designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites like Wimbleball Lake.
Are there facilities like cafes or toilets near Exmoor's lakes?
Wimbleball Lake offers comprehensive facilities including a café, gift shop, and toilets, making it a convenient stop. Other lakes, especially more remote ones like Pinkery Pond, have fewer amenities, so it's advisable to plan accordingly.
What cycling opportunities are there near Exmoor's lakes?
Wimbleball Lake features cycling trails, including a new path from the café to the dam. Wistlandpound Reservoir also offers cycling routes. For more challenging rides, Exmoor has extensive road cycling and mountain biking options. You can find detailed routes in the road cycling guide and MTB trails guide for Exmoor.
Which lakes in Exmoor are suitable for dogs?
Many areas around Exmoor's lakes are dog-friendly, particularly for walks on trails. Wimbleball Lake and Wistlandpound Reservoir offer extensive walking paths where dogs are generally welcome, often requiring them to be on a lead, especially near wildlife or livestock. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
Are there any lesser-known lakes worth visiting in Exmoor?
While Wimbleball Lake, Pinkery Pond, and Wistlandpound Reservoir are well-known, Nutscale Reservoir offers a serene and somewhat hidden experience. Lying deep in a valley, it provides good views of the water nestled into the countryside and is often overlooked by passing hikers, offering a tranquil escape.
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