Top 2 Lakes around Ilfracombe

While Ilfracombe itself is coastal, several notable lakes and reservoirs are within easy reach. These include Lower Slade Reservoir, known for fishing and walking, Mill Park Lake, a private fishing lake within a caravan park, and Bicclescombe Park, which features a boat lake and duck pond. Further afield, Wistlandpound Reservoir offers a larger experience with accessible walks and fly fishing.

Yes, fishing is a popular activity at several lakes. Lower Slade Reservoir is excellent for coarse fishing, stocked with carp, bream, perch, and pike. Mill Park Lake, located within a touring park, also offers well-stocked private fishing with carp, bream, and tench. For fly fishing, Wistlandpound Reservoir is a popular spot for brown trout.

Bicclescombe Park, just a mile from Ilfracombe town centre, is ideal for families. It features a boat lake, a duck pond, a large children's play area, tennis courts, and a sensory garden. The Old Mill House and Tea Rooms are also on-site. Mill Park Lake, while primarily for fishing, is part of a caravan and camping park with family amenities like a games room and play area.

Yes, Wistlandpound Reservoir offers accessible woodland walks, including a flat inner path suitable for all abilities, wheelchairs, and pushchairs. Lower Slade Reservoir also has pleasant waterside paths that are part of the Ilfracombe to Ossaborough Railway Path, suitable for walking and cycling.

Lower Slade Reservoir is a dog-friendly fishery and offers waterside paths for walks. Many of the walking trails around the reservoirs and parks in the region are generally dog-friendly, but always check specific signage for any restrictions, especially around wildlife habitats or fishing areas.

The lakes are rich in wildlife. Lower Slade Reservoir is teeming with birds and other wildlife, providing a tranquil setting for nature observation. Wistlandpound Reservoir is a haven for wildlife spotting, with buzzards, goshawks, and various wildfowl present, and even has a bird hide for observation.

While the lakes themselves are primarily natural or man-made for water supply/recreation, the nearby coastal areas offer historical interest. For example, Rapparee Cove is the site of the shipwreck of the London from 1796. Ilfracombe Harbour itself is a historic working port.

Beyond fishing and walking, the area around Ilfracombe offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including sections of the South West Coast Path. There are also running routes and traffic-free bike rides. Wistlandpound Reservoir also hosts some watersports activities like canoeing and adaptive biking, typically run by Calvert Devon.

Bicclescombe Park has the Old Mill House and Tea Rooms on-site for refreshments. Lower Slade Reservoir provides a car park and toilets. Wistlandpound Reservoir also has a car park and a visitor centre. For a wider range of options, Ilfracombe Harbour offers many places to stop for refreshments.

While some coastal spots near Ilfracombe are known for wild swimming, such as the Wild Swimming Spot by the Shore, the inland lakes and reservoirs mentioned are primarily for fishing, walking, or water supply. Wild swimming is generally not permitted in reservoirs due to safety and water quality regulations. Always check local signage and regulations before entering any water body.

The lakes and surrounding areas are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking, fishing, and family activities, with lush greenery and active wildlife. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can provide tranquil, crisp walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.