Best lakes around Kenn are found in a region characterized by varied aquatic environments. The area includes managed reservoirs, former quarry lakes, and significant wetland habitats. These locations offer opportunities for wildlife observation and outdoor recreation. Kenn's surroundings provide access to diverse natural landscapes for exploration.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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Popular around Kenn
Here you have a beautiful view over the reserve. But first cross the railway line. Apparently you can even swim there.
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It is a wetland habitat that attracts thousands of birds, especially waders and wildfowl, and offers stunning views of the Exe Estuary. Exe Estuary Trail passes by the reserve and offers scenic views of the river and the surrounding countryside.
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Constructed in 1881, Kennick Reservoir covers 50 acres (20ha) and neighbours Tottiford and Trenchford Reservoirs. For those keen on fishing, it's worth knowing that Kennick is a premier rainbow trout fishery, and waterside access here is limited to anglers only, whereas you can walk around the edges of the other two reservoirs.
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Stunning views! Felt like we were overseas in Scandinavia or Canada.
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The most northerly of a trio of reservoirs above Lustleigh, Kennick Reservoir is a picturesque place for a rest. Any paths around the southern half of the reservoir are reserved for private anglers but the road and adjacent parking is quiet enough to stop in. You can also walk south to Tottiford reservoir where you’ll find public footpaths and plenty of grassy banks that make fantastic picnic spots. While there are plenty of ducks, it’s the egrets that will catch your eye. Both little egrets and great white egrets have been seen here.
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Blackhill Quarry (or Black Hill Quarry), is now defunct and is slowly being restored to heathland habitat. This restoration includes open water habitats and the diversity of terrain encourages a similar diversity of wildlife and birds to the area. Semi-feral ponies also graze parts of the area and stay out year round, so you’ve got a great chance to see these native ponies. Lizards, dragonflies and butterflies are all now making a strong comeback.
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One of the best places in Devon for watching wading birds, the Bowling Green and Goosemoor marshes RSPB reserves are a sanctuary for wildlife on the edge of the Exe Estuary. Here you can watch the many migratory species from the wooden hide at the edge of the marshes, just off the lane. Keep your eyes peeled for black-tailed godwits, brent geese, avocets, wigeon and teal, among a whole host of other wildlife. For further information, visit: https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/bowling-green-and-goosemoor/
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Around Kenn, you'll discover a variety of aquatic environments, including managed reservoirs like Kennick Reservoir, former quarry lakes such as Blackhill Quarry Lake, and significant wetland habitats like Goosemoor Nature Reserve Birdwatching Hide. These diverse locations offer different experiences, from fishing to birdwatching and tranquil walks.
For excellent birdwatching, visit Goosemoor Nature Reserve Birdwatching Hide, a wetland habitat attracting thousands of waders and wildfowl with views of the Exe Estuary. Another prime spot is Bowling Green Marsh Bird Hide, known as one of Devon's best places for watching migratory species like black-tailed godwits, brent geese, avocets, wigeon, and teal.
The lakes and nature reserves around Kenn are rich in wildlife. At Kennick Reservoir, you might spot egrets, including both little and great white egrets. Blackhill Quarry Lake, undergoing restoration, attracts semi-feral ponies, lizards, dragonflies, and butterflies. Wetland areas like Goosemoor and Bowling Green Marsh are home to numerous bird species, including waders and wildfowl.
Yes, Kennick Reservoir is a premier rainbow trout fishery. Waterside access around its southern half is generally reserved for private anglers. The South West Lakes Trust manages Kennick, enhancing it for recreation and nature.
Absolutely. You can find public footpaths and grassy banks suitable for picnics around Tottiford reservoir, which is adjacent to Kennick Reservoir. For more structured routes, there are many easy hikes around Kenn, including trails in Haldon Forest Park, which offer various distances and difficulty levels.
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the area around Kenn offers a range of outdoor activities. You can explore easy hikes, go road cycling, or find running trails. Haldon Forest Park, for example, provides options for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running.
Many areas around the lakes are suitable for families. For instance, the public footpaths and grassy banks around Tottiford reservoir, near Kennick Reservoir, are great for picnics. Birdwatching hides like Goosemoor Nature Reserve Birdwatching Hide and Bowling Green Marsh Bird Hide are also family-friendly spots for observing nature.
Yes, parking is available near some of the lakes. For example, the road and adjacent parking near Kennick Reservoir are quiet enough for a peaceful stop. It's always a good idea to check specific locations for designated parking areas.
While both villages are named Kenn, they offer distinct lakeside experiences. Kenn in Somerset is close to areas like Kenn Moor Nature Reserve, which features watery habitats, and a recreational fishing lake at Warrens Holiday Village. Kenn in Devon is associated with the notable Kennick Reservoir, a picturesque freshwater lake popular for angling and tranquil enjoyment, managed by the South West Lakes Trust.
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquil environment and picturesque settings. The opportunity for wildlife observation, especially birdwatching at places like Goosemoor Nature Reserve Birdwatching Hide, is a major draw. The diverse landscapes, from reservoirs to wetland habitats, also offer varied experiences for outdoor activities and peaceful relaxation.
While Kennick Reservoir is well-known, exploring its adjacent Tottiford reservoir offers public footpaths and quiet grassy banks perfect for picnics. Blackhill Quarry Lake, a former quarry undergoing restoration, provides a unique natural setting where you can observe semi-feral ponies and a variety of wildlife making a comeback.


Still not found your perfect lake around Kenn? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.