Fernworthy Reservoir Circular Walk
Devon
Fernworthy Reservoir sits in a sheltered pocket on the northeastern edge of Dartmoor, surrounded by conifer plantation and patches of ancient woodland. The 5.6 km circular path around the water is an easy, well-surfaced route that offers a taste of moorland atmosphere without the exposure of Dartmoor's higher ground. The walk moves between shaded forest stretches and open waterside sections with long views across the reservoir to the moor beyond. It's a particularly good option when the weather is unsettled, as the tree cover provides genuine shelter.
This dog friendly walk works well for dogs who enjoy woodland and water in equal measure. The reservoir edges offer drinking and paddling spots, and the forest floor provides rich sniffing throughout. Off-lead potential is moderate, though leads are advisable where the path crosses open ground as livestock grazing is moderately likely on the moorland fringes. The easy terrain and manageable distance make it suitable for dogs of all ages, and the sheltered environment means muddy paws are more likely than windswept ones.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 5.6 km (3.5 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 1 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Moorland, Woodland, Reservoir
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- Toilets, Picnic area
- Parking
- Forestry England pay and display car park at Fernworthy
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fernworthy Reservoir Circular Walk dog friendly?
Fernworthy Reservoir Circular Walk is a solid choice for dogs, earning a 7 out of 10 for dog friendliness. The 5.6 km circular route combines shaded woodland with open waterside sections, giving dogs plenty of variety , from sniffing along the forest floor to paddling and drinking at the reservoir's edge. It's well-suited to dogs of all ages thanks to the easy, well-surfaced terrain and manageable distance.
Can dogs be off lead at Fernworthy Reservoir Circular Walk?
Off-lead potential here is moderate. The woodland and waterside sections offer good opportunities to let dogs roam, but leads are advisable where the path crosses open ground, as livestock grazing is moderately likely on the moorland fringes. It's worth keeping a lead handy and reading the conditions as you go.
What should I know before visiting Fernworthy Reservoir Circular Walk with my dog?
The walk is a good bet in unsettled weather, as the surrounding conifer plantation provides genuine shelter from the elements , expect muddy paws rather than windswept ones. There's a Forestry England pay and display car park at Fernworthy, along with toilets and a picnic area, making it a comfortable base for your visit. The reservoir edges offer natural drinking spots for dogs, so you're well catered for on that front.
What’s Nearby?
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