
Venford Reservoir Dartmoor
A serene Dartmoor gem offering peaceful reservoir walks, hidden waterfalls, and stunning moorland views. Perfect for quiet escapes and nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light and crisp air

Venford Reservoir Dartmoor
Best Time
Magical light and crisp air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Dartmoor gem offering peaceful reservoir walks, hidden waterfalls, and stunning moorland views. Perfect for quiet escapes and nature lovers.
"Lovely peaceful place, nice easy track to follow round, lots of dogs being walked around."

👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Paths can be muddy and have exposed roots. Sturdy, waterproof shoes are essential for a comfortable walk.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the tranquility by bringing your own food and drink to savor amidst the beautiful scenery.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Venford Reservoir Loop
Around the reservoir
An easy, peaceful walk with beautiful water views and plenty of dog-walking opportunities.
Venford Brook Falls
Off-track from the reservoir
Discover a secret gorge and a charming waterfall, a rewarding find for the adventurous explorer.
Panoramic Dartmoor Views
Various points around the reservoir
Enjoy the expansive beauty of Dartmoor, especially on frosty mornings, offering a truly relaxing natural escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild: Prepare for Dartmoor's Charm
Beyond the Reservoir: Explore Further
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Paths can be muddy and have exposed roots. Sturdy, waterproof shoes are essential for a comfortable walk.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the tranquility by bringing your own food and drink to savor amidst the beautiful scenery.
What is the best hiking trail that offers a lot of elevation?
🚗 Navigate Narrow Roads
Access involves driving on narrow country lanes; drive cautiously and enjoy the scenic route.
💧 Seek Hidden Waterfalls
Venture off the main path to find the enchanting Venford Brook Falls for a unique discovery.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Paths can be muddy and have exposed roots. Sturdy, waterproof shoes are essential for a comfortable walk.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the tranquility by bringing your own food and drink to savor amidst the beautiful scenery.
🚗 Navigate Narrow Roads
Access involves driving on narrow country lanes; drive cautiously and enjoy the scenic route.
💧 Seek Hidden Waterfalls
Venture off the main path to find the enchanting Venford Brook Falls for a unique discovery.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
A popular spot for dog walkers, offering a great environment for your canine companions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Venford Reservoir for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful, easy walking trails around the water. The availability of parking and clean toilets are appreciated, though some note the narrow approach roads. It's a quiet escape perfect for picnics and dog walking.
"Beautiful place. We parked in a car park across from here. There was plenty of parking and toilets in the car park. Really lovely easy walk around the reservoir."
Chelsea Curran
"Lovely walk round the reservoir. Good car park. Quiet location. Bit of a drive along narrow roads but very much worth it!"
Emma Devonald
"Lovely peaceful place, nice easy track to follow round, lots of dogs being walked around.
Have to go off track abit to find the waterfalls futher down"
Jason Fall
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Venford Reservoir is accessible by car, though the roads leading to it can be narrow and winding, typical of Dartmoor. There are two main parking areas available.
Yes, there are two parking areas. One is located near the dam, and another is further up the hill across the dam. Some parking areas have toilets nearby.
Public transport options to Venford Reservoir are limited. It's best accessed by car for flexibility, especially if you plan to explore surrounding areas.
Expect narrow country lanes with passing places. While scenic, they require careful driving.
The main paths around the reservoir are generally suitable for cycling, but some sections can be rough or muddy, so mountain bikes are recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Venford Reservoir and the surrounding walking paths is free. There may be charges for parking in designated car parks.
Venford Reservoir is open to visitors year-round during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times.
Parking fees may apply in the designated car parks. It's advisable to check for any signage regarding charges upon arrival.
While there are no official closing times, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the lack of lighting on the paths.
Generally, visitors are welcome to enjoy the natural beauty. Please respect the environment, stay on marked paths where possible, and take your litter with you.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The loop around the reservoir is a popular and easy walk, offering lovely views. For a more adventurous experience, explore off-track to find Venford Brook Falls.
The main path around the reservoir is a mix of gravel, soil, and exposed roots, which can be uneven. It's generally considered an easy walk but may not be fully accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs in all sections.
There are toilets available in some of the car parks, which are noted as being clean.
Absolutely! The reservoir offers beautiful water reflections, and the surrounding Dartmoor landscape provides stunning backdrops, especially during frosty mornings.
While some visitors engage in wild swimming, it's important to be aware of potential dangers like cold water shock and submerged objects. Always prioritize safety.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no cafes or restaurants directly at Venford Reservoir. It's a natural site, so visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks.
The nearest amenities and dining options would be in nearby villages or towns on Dartmoor. It's best to plan your meals before or after your visit.
Yes, Venford Reservoir is an ideal spot for a picnic. There are plenty of scenic locations to sit and enjoy your meal.
There are no designated BBQ facilities at Venford Reservoir. Visitors should refrain from open fires to protect the natural environment.
Bring a picnic blanket, your food, drinks, and any utensils you might need. Remember to take all your rubbish with you.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam itself offers a great perspective, as do the various points along the walking path that capture the water and surrounding moorland. Look for reflections on the water's surface.
Early mornings, especially during frosty conditions, offer beautiful light and a serene atmosphere. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide stunning shots.
It's excellent for landscape photography, nature shots, and capturing tranquil water scenes. The hidden waterfalls also offer unique photographic opportunities.
No special permit is required for personal photography. However, if you are planning a professional photoshoot, it's always best to check with the relevant authorities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing water movement.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Waterfalls
For those seeking a bit more adventure, venturing off the main path can lead to the hidden Venford Brook Falls. This requires a bit more exploration and potentially navigating rougher terrain, but the reward is a charming gorge and waterfall that feels like a secret discovery. These off-track explorations are often highlighted by visitors looking for a more unique experience beyond the standard reservoir walk.
Practicalities: Parking, Facilities, and What to Bring
Given the natural setting, it's highly recommended to pack a picnic. There are no catering facilities on-site, making it an ideal spot to enjoy your own food amidst the serene surroundings. Crucially, visitors should wear appropriate footwear, as the paths can become muddy, especially after rainfall, and may have exposed roots. Bringing a picnic blanket and ensuring you take all your litter with you are essential for a responsible and enjoyable visit.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit