Cheddar Reservoir
A scenic 105-hectare circular reservoir offering walking, cycling, fishing, and wildlife spotting in Somerset.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Cheddar Reservoir
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 105-hectare circular reservoir offering walking, cycling, fishing, and wildlife spotting in Somerset.
"Lovely place to walk, chat to dog walkers, listen to the water lapping on the steps."
🚶♀️ Flat & Easy Walk
The 2-mile loop is mostly flat, perfect for all ages and fitness levels. Great for dog walkers!
🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is free but fills up fast on busy days. Aim for early morning or late afternoon.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Reservoir Loop Walk
Circular path around the reservoir
Enjoy a flat, scenic 2-mile walk or cycle with lovely views of the water and surrounding countryside.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the reservoir
Keep an eye out for swans, ducks, and various bird species. It's a peaceful spot for nature lovers.
Pump Track Thrills
Near the reservoir
For the adventurous, test your skills on the pump track, a popular spot for mountain bikers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Parking and Facilities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Flat & Easy Walk
The 2-mile loop is mostly flat, perfect for all ages and fitness levels. Great for dog walkers!
🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is free but fills up fast on busy days. Aim for early morning or late afternoon.
🚴♀️ Pump Track Fun
Bring your bike to hit the pump track for some exciting mountain biking action.
🚫 No Facilities On-Site
Remember to bring your own snacks, drinks, and anything else you might need.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Flat & Easy Walk
The 2-mile loop is mostly flat, perfect for all ages and fitness levels. Great for dog walkers!
🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is free but fills up fast on busy days. Aim for early morning or late afternoon.
🚴♀️ Pump Track Fun
Bring your bike to hit the pump track for some exciting mountain biking action.
🚫 No Facilities On-Site
Remember to bring your own snacks, drinks, and anything else you might need.
☀️ Heatwave Closures
Paths may temporarily close during extreme heatwaves for safety. Check local advisories.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cheddar Reservoir for its pleasant, flat walking path, making it ideal for exercise, dog walking, and family outings. The scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting are frequently highlighted as positives. While parking can be busy and facilities are limited, the free access and peaceful atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit.
"A fine circular reservoir not far from Cheddar gorge area with a good quality walkway around so dog walkers walkers and runners can get good exercise here.
Use across the reservoir are good and we saw swans, ducks and wind surfers whilst we were there.
There are at least a couple of parking areas around the reservoir."
Alan Puzey
"Lovely place to visit but unfortunately some heavy showers prevented us walking all the way around it. Some lovely views though."
Phil Sault
"Just a lovely place to walk, chat to dog walkers, listen to the water lapping on the steps. Free Car park, no facilities. Someone told us it was 2 miles, but it was easy because it was flat. Will visit again."
Frank Heggs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cheddar Reservoir is accessible by car, with several free parking areas available around its perimeter. It's also a pleasant walk or cycle from the village of Cheddar itself.
While direct public transport to the reservoir is limited, local bus services can take you to the nearby village of Cheddar, from where you can walk or cycle.
The most popular way to explore is by walking the 2-mile circular path. Cycling is also common, especially on the dedicated paths.
Yes, some users have reported success parking motorhomes, with enough space for a few vans. However, the road leading to it can be narrow.
Yes, Cheddar Reservoir is located just a short walk or drive from the famous Cheddar Gorge, making it easy to combine visits. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Cheddar Reservoir and its walking paths is free. Parking is also free at the designated areas.
Cheddar Reservoir is generally accessible at all times, though specific access might be restricted during extreme weather events.
No booking is required to visit Cheddar Reservoir. It's an open public space for everyone to enjoy.
During extreme heatwaves, paths may be temporarily closed for safety reasons. Always check local advisories before your visit.
Yes, Cheddar Reservoir is a very popular spot for dog walkers, and dogs are generally welcome. Please keep them under control.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular activities include walking, cycling, birdwatching, and watersports like windsurfing. Fishing for pike is also a common pursuit.
It typically takes about an hour to walk the 2-mile circular path, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.
No, there are no public facilities such as toilets or cafes directly at the reservoir. It's advisable to come prepared.
Yes, the flat, easy walking path makes it ideal for families with young children and strollers. It's a safe and pleasant environment.
Visitors often spot swans, ducks, and various other bird species. It's a great location for casual birdwatching.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Watersports
Yes, Cheddar Reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, particularly for pike. Day tickets are often available.
Pike fishing is particularly good here, with many fish caught in the high teens. Trout or sea baits are often effective.
Yes, the reservoir is used for watersports, with windsurfing being a common activity observed.
Information on fishing permits and day tickets can usually be found through local fishing tackle shops or online angling resources.
While not explicitly detailed, the presence of windsurfers suggests that some forms of personal watercraft may be permitted. Check local regulations for specifics.
📸 📸 Photography
The circular walk offers scenic views of the water, surrounding hills, and wildlife. Sunrises and sunsets can be particularly beautiful.
Drone footage has been captured at Cheddar Reservoir, showcasing the landscape and events like hot air balloons. Always adhere to drone regulations.
Early mornings and late afternoons provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the reservoir's beauty.
The entire 2-mile loop offers varied perspectives. Stopping at different points along the path will yield diverse shots of the water and landscape.
Landscape, wildlife, and action shots (like cycling on the pump track) are common subjects for photographers here.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring a picnic and enjoy the scenic views. While there are no playgrounds or specific facilities, the open space and the chance to spot ducks and swans provide plenty of entertainment. It’s a great option for a relaxed family outing that combines gentle exercise with nature appreciation.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors. The open space allows dogs plenty of room to roam safely. It's a popular spot for socialising with other dog walkers, making it a great community hub for pet owners.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Mountain Bikers
If you're into mountain biking, the pump track is a must-visit. It's a dedicated area designed for skill-building and fun, attracting riders of all levels. Videos showcase the excitement and challenges of this feature, making it a key attraction for the biking community.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling and the Pump Track
For those seeking more adrenaline, the pump track located near the reservoir is a major draw for mountain bikers. This specially designed track allows riders to generate momentum by moving their body up and down, creating a fun and challenging experience. Videos showcase impressive maneuvers and skills being tested on the track, highlighting its appeal to the biking community.
Whether you're looking for a relaxed cycle with a view or a more dynamic biking session, Cheddar Reservoir caters to a range of cycling interests. Remember to bring your bike and helmet for a full experience.
Fishing at Cheddar Reservoir
+1Anglers suggest that using trout or other sea baits can be particularly effective for attracting pike. The reservoir holds a significant volume of water, providing ample habitat for various fish species. It's a venue that attracts both casual day-trippers and more serious fishing enthusiasts looking for a rewarding catch.
+1If you plan to fish, ensure you have the necessary permits and are aware of local fishing regulations. The opportunity to catch impressive pike makes Cheddar Reservoir a compelling destination for fishing enthusiasts.
Wildlife and Nature Observation
The circular walk around the reservoir is perfect for casual birdwatching. You can enjoy the gentle lapping of water and the calls of birds as you stroll. It's a great place to connect with nature, even if you're not an avid birder. The reservoir's presence adds a significant natural element to the Somerset landscape, making it a valuable ecological site.
For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle, the natural beauty and wildlife at Cheddar Reservoir offer a serene and rewarding experience. It’s a reminder of the natural charm that exists just outside the more famous Cheddar Gorge.
Social
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