Freshwater in Devon

Devon, with its lush landscapes and winding waterways, offers a rich tapestry of freshwater habitats perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. From tranquil rivers and hidden streams to sprawling wetlands and scenic lakes, this county is teeming with opportunities to experience nature up close. Whether you’re birdwatching along the Exe Estuary, spotting otters on the River Dart, or exploring the biodiversity of Dartmoor’s moorland pools, Devon’s freshwater environments provide a haven for wildlife and a playground for those who cherish the natural world. These activities not only offer unforgettable encounters with native species but also highlight the importance of protecting Devon’s unique aquatic ecosystems.

Bystock Pools

Bystock Pools is one of Devon Wildlife Trust’s most popular reserves. Visit and you’ll find yourself stopping to take in beautiful

Riverside Valley Park

Riverside Valley Park is one of six Exeter Valley Parks managed by Devon Wildlife Trust. Its 40 hectares sit between Clapperbrook

Heddon Valley

Heddon Valley is a National Trust site within Exmoor National Park – a stunning natural haven of wooded slopes, a

Watersmeet, Exmoor

Watersmeet is one of the largest remaining ancient woodlands in the south west. Oak dominates the canopy, but other species

Photo of an orchid at Jetty Marsh, Newton Abbot

Jetty Marsh Reserve

The Jetty Marsh Reserve is a small site with a mosaic of reedbeds, scrub, grassland, open water and ditches and

Photo looking out over Stover Lake through trees

Stover Country Park Wildlife

Stover Country Park covers 114 acres which consist of six main habitats types: freshwater, marshland, coniferous plantation, mixed broadleaved woodland,

Photo across the river Tamar ro fields and woodland

Upper and Lower Tamar Lakes

The Upper and Lower Tamar Lakes straddle the Devon and Cornwall border. These two man-made lakes offer many opportunities for

Grand Western Canal Country Park

Offering wonderful views of the surrounding countryside, the Grand Western Canal Country Park runs for 11 miles between Tiverton and

Lydford Gorge

Lydford Gorge is 1.5 miles long and includes the spectacular 90 ft high White Lady waterfall and the exciting Devil’s

Halsdon

Halsdon consists of a mixture of ancient woodland, floodplain meadows and a magnificent length of the River Torridge immortalised by