Burrator Reservoir Circular Walk

The Burrator Reservoir Circular Walk is a fairly easy adventure that doesn’t feature much in the way of difficult terrain, with the exception of some forest pathways that can become quite muddy after a good rainfall. Be sure to wear decent walking shoes that are preferably water-resistant in these conditions. Make sure to keep your canine friends on a lead, as there is usually a decent amount of foot traffic on this route.

Offering beautifully scenic views overlooking the Burrator reservoir and surrounding hillside, as well as a wonderfully atmospheric woodland setting, it is easy to see why the Burrator Reservoir Circular Walk is such a popular route with families and beginner walkers. If you find yourself in the southwest of England and looking for a gentle afternoon walk, why not try exploring this lovely circular route within Dartmoor National Park.

Setting out from the roadside parking area, head east along the dam wall of the Burrator Reservoir and enjoy the views of the water before entering into the cover of the forest. After 0.4mi from the trailhead, you will exit the tree cover and pick up the path on the left, passing through a gate to follow it across the length of the Sheepstor dam wall. Reaching the opposite side, the path will enter a stretch of woodland terrain and turn to the north. Keep left along the trail for the next 1.4mi, walking through the variety of terrain along the edge of the reservoir and gazing out across the calm water, as you make your way past the ruins of Longstone Manor and around a point, eventually meeting up with a junction in the northeast corner of the reservoir.

With the reservoir on your left and the slopes of Sheeps Tor on your right, turn left and follow the path through the trees to cross over Narrator Brook and arrive at the banks of the River Meavy. From here, you will turn to the northeast and follow the path slightly uphill to cross the river and arrive at Norsworthy Bridge. There will likely be an ice cream truck parked nearby, where you can pause for a few minutes to enjoy some refreshments in a scenic locale. Once you are ready to get back on the trails, head west to make your way along the River Meavy towards the edge of the Burrator Reservoir. Once there, keep left along the trail for the next 1.1mi, enjoying the intermittent views across the water as you pop in and out of the tree cover while crossing over a number of streams that flow into the reservoir.

Reaching a junction with the road, turn left and follow it along the western edge of the reservoir. Enjoy the final views across the water, as well as a lovely highlight in the waterfall on your right side. After walking south for 0.4mi, you will arrive back at the roadside parking area where you began the Burrator Reservoir Circular Walk.

Trail Highlights

Burrator Reservoir

Located in the southern portion of Dartmoor National Park, the Burrator Reservoir is a unique body of water, in that it features two dams – one in its southeast corner and another to the southwest. Completed in 1898, the reservoir supplies drinking water for Plymouth and other nearby towns.

Norsworthy Bridge

Situated near the eastern side of the Burrator Reservoir, Norsworthy Bridge is a lovely stone bridge that spans the River Meavy. Many people use this as a beginning/end point for their walks through the area, as there is often an ice cream truck parked here, offering delicious snacks to enjoy in a picturesque setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How deep is Burrator Reservoir?

At its deepest point, the reservoir is 77ft deep. This will fluctuate as the water levels within the reservoir rise and fall.

Can you paddle on the Burrator Reservoir?

Any form of water sports, including swimming, kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are prohibited on the Burrator reservoir.