Burrator Reservoir is situated within Dartmoor National Park, and the tranquil water and surrounding mixed woodland contrasts sharply with the open moor and the rugged Dartmoor tors. A trip here can be combined with a walk across the moors, or enjoyed as a trip of its own with plenty to do – from walking and taking in the views, to fishing for rainbow and brown trout (just be sure to get a permit, available online or by calling South West Lakes). Devon has relatively few lakes, but the situation and quality of these make them a hidden gem in Devon’s crown.

• Dog Friendly
• Free Parking

A reservoir on Bodmin Moor covering more than 900 acres it is the largest lake in Cornwall. Leisure facilities on the site include angling and a 50-acre adventure and nature park, (Colliford Lake Park) which features trails and footpaths, play areas, wetlands, picnic areas and a cafe

• Ample free parking
  
• Dog friendly

The largest section of the Cornwall AONB at nearly 200 square kilometres the moor is an expanse of grassland and heather punctuated by granite outcrops and strewn with boulders

Containing evidence of many prehistoric settlements, where marshy hollows and rivers, hidden valleys and ancient oak trees remain. Though cut almost in two by the A30, nonetheless the moor retains a surprising remoteness and sense of wildness. Natural rock formations such as The Cheesewring and man-made formations like The Hurlers stone circles add to the mystery. Most of the land lies at the comparatively low height of 200 metres, rising to 400 at Rough Tor and 420 metres at Brown Willy, which is the highest point in Cornwall. It is one of the warmest and wettest uplands in Britain though you might not think so in the snowy depths of winter. The moor is home to a plethora of plants and some rare and protected wildlife such as otters, marsh fritillary butterflies, bats and songbirds such as the stonechat and wheatear. Bodmin Moor is also the only place in the world where a rare moss, the ‘Cornish Path Moss’, grows. As well as the high granite tors, prehistoric hut circles and standing stones, there are some more modern historical areas of mining and quarrying. Small farmsteads, many medieval in origin, support livestock grazing – helping to keep the moorland and heath free from scrub and bracken

Colliford and Siblyback lakes, and Dozmary Pool with its supposed Arthurian associations (the legend has it that excalibur’s sword was thrown into this pool), are all significant bodies of water. There are also large conifer plantations at Halvana and Smallcombe Downs. Grab yourself an OS map and get out and explore, the moor is a fantastic place for walkers!

The cast and crew of the TV series Poldark found themselves on Bodmin Moor for a large part of their time in Cornwall. Scenes featuring the exterior of Ross Poldark’s cottage, Nampara, were shot here along with many capturing the cast on horseback. With a rugged character and wild streak, Bodmin Moor certainly provides the perfect backdrop to Poldark’s plot of passion and family dramatics

• Parking is free and plentiful
  
• Dog friendly