• Burrator Reservoir was completed in 1898
  • When full Burrator Reservoir has a capacity of 4210 mega litres
  • Burrator is 47 metres deep, from the spillway to the bottom of the dam
  • Water from Burrator supplies around 280,000 people in Plymouth, Tavistock, Princetown and South Devon
  • There are 2 dams at Burrator – Burrator Dam, 60,000 tonnes of granite with concrete, and Sheepstor Dam, a sloping earth dam with a waterproof clay core.

Burrator Reservoir, located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park and overlooked by the breath-taking Sheepstor, Leather Tor and Down Tor, provides an unforgettable family day out in Devon. This must-visit location is jam-packed with history and nature offering a variety of fun and free things to do with the family.

Find out about the rich history of Burrator by visiting the on-site Discovery Centre. The Centre, which opened in 2014 as part of the Burrator Historic and Natural Environment project, includes displays, spoken history and an interactive screen perfect for all ages, from toddlers to grandparents! There is so much history to uncover! Explore the historic ruins of Lowery Barn, Leathertor Farm and Longstone Manor, view the artistic impressions and imagine what life was like before the reservoir was built.

With miles of paths and moorland to explore, including an easy access wildlife trail in the Arboretum suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, Burrator is the ideal location for both the keen rambler and those who just want to enjoy a leisurely stroll and take in the stunning views. Watch in awe as water from the historic Devonport Leat cascades down the valley, finishing at Burrator in a waterfall. Don’t forget to take the camera and capture those all-important family moments.

Whether you want to explore Burrator by foot or bike, take part in a spot of Trout fishing, make the most of the plentiful open space where children can play freely or attend one of the many events which take place on site… there really is something for everyone. Why not bring your four-legged friends and enjoy a dog friendly day out on Dartmoor. Explore the great outdoors and become our top dog!

Searching for some inspiration for things to do with the kids during the holidays? Why not download our ‘101 things to do this summer’ booklet or pick up a copy from the Discovery Centre. Spark your children’s imagination for the outdoors and experience a summer holiday like no other with our ultimate ‘to do’ list. Our activity sheets are also a fantastic free download – There’s masses of things to learn and discover. Identify trees, spot animals, discover different leaves or go on a bug hunt.

So, if you are looking for a place to embark on your next family adventure, Burrator should be top of your list.