With easy access on to the moor, Burrator makes a great starting point for longer walks and also offers itself as an ideal venue for several shorter, circular routes.
For those looking for an enjoyable, easy-going walk, a lane runs around the edge of the entire reservoir. It's mainly wooded and you'll catch glimpses of the water as it glitters in the sunlight. You can start this 3.5 mile circular from the Quarry, Norsworthy Bridge, the Arboretum or the dam, and being relatively flat it's great for cycling, pushchairs and wheelchairs.
A visit to Burrator wouldn't be complete without seeing some built heritage. On the circular route around the reservoir you'll see the 17th century Longstone Manor and a stop at the arboretum will delight all nature lovers.
From the Quarry Car Park you can access a track that leads onto the disused railway line, and you can cycle (or walk) all the way to Princetown from here!
If you're keen to explore the area, it's worth investing in an Ordnance Survey map (Explorer Map for Dartmoor OL28) or guide book as there are many routes that can be taken. Visit Drakes Trail for information on a walking trail and cycle route taking in Burrator Reservoir.
The Trust is currently working on improving access and information at Burrator and this will include the production of three self-guided trails which are likely to focus on the built heritage and natural environment, visit our project page to find out more and in the meantime, enjoy exploring Burrator.