Bystock Pools

About this route

Bystock Pools is one of Devon Wildlife Trust’s most popular reserves. Visit and you’ll find yourself stopping to take in beautiful views across a lily-pad filled lake, strolling through heathland on boardwalks, and climbing the gentle slopes of a wildflower meadow.

Getting Around

Parking is available in the road at the south entrance by the reservoir (OS map SY034 843).

Facilities
Parking, dog friendly but look out for grazing animals & nesting signs.
Terrain
Footpaths
Accessibility

Interesting information

The nature reserve is well-known for its dragonflies and damselflies which in spring and summer dance across the surface of its open water and heathland. Look out for emperor, downy emerald and golden-ringed dragonflies as they fly around you.

Bystock is good for birds too. Head for its heathland to see willow warblersblackcaps and stonechats. On summer evenings listen for the weird and wonderful calls of nightjars.