SWLT blogs

National Play Day

Usually held on the first Wednesday of August, this year’s Playday falls on the 7th August. In essence, it is an amazing number of events across the UK which enable children, young people, their families and communities to get out and play, celebrate play, and campaign for play. Read more

Things to do with the children outdoors this summer

There are plenty of fantastic opportunities to get outside and get active around the lakes; nature is right on our doorstep, providing the perfect playground and outdoor setting for a family day out. Read more

Tips for taking a great photo

Are you interested in photography? There are plenty of fantastic opportunities to capture striking images of panoramic views, wildlife and people in the stunning landscapes surrounding the lakes of the south west. Why not try and capture a winning landscape, wildlife or action shot, and submit it to the annual South West Lakes and South West Water ‘Love your Lakes’ photo competition? Read more

5 ways to care for the environment on World Environment Day

It’s World Environment Day on the 5 June, which is the United Nations day for encouraging worldwide awareness and action to protect our environment. We can all make changes in our daily lives to help the environment, which in turn can benefit our health. So… take action today for a healthier Earth tomorrow. Read more

Where does the water go?

Did you know that only 2.5% of the world’s water is freshwater and that less than 1% is accessible and usable? Read more

Walks at Roadford Lake

There are numerous walks at Roadford, ranging from a short stroll to a 13 mile hike. Read more

The Benefits of Volunteering

Our volunteers make a significant contribution to our charitable work here at South West Lakes Trust, whether that’s helping out with environmental improvements, raising site standards or supporting our angling and activity teams to deliver all the great things they do. Read more

Upstream Thinking

Most of us don’t think twice about turning on the tap and running a nice glass of cold water on a hot day, or filling up the kettle for a brew after a busy day at work, however that water has been on quite a journey since falling as rain. Read more

Top tips for taking the perfect photo

Renowned professional news and sport photographer Richard Austin has been working at the top end of the newspaper and magazine industry for over 30 years. Known for his creativity, and adorable photos of Pennywell Farms miniature pigs, we were thrilled when Richard agreed to be one of the judges for the annual South West Lakes and South West Water ‘Love your Lakes’ photo competition. Read more

Latest

Bryophytes at Dendles Wood

As the last survey season for the Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) Project comes to an end, Ecologist Emma Scotney has lots of amazing findings from Devon and Cornwall to share over the next few months.

Batty About Bats, Family Bat Walk at Siblyback Lake

On Saturday 21st September, join South West Lakes Trust and Cornwall Bat Group for a fun family bat evening at Siblyback Lake, and find out about the bats that call the lake home.

Successful Dark Skies Event at Siblyback Lake with Caradon Observatory

Despite the stormy weather forecast, 37 people (including two hardy campers) joined South West Lakes Trust and Caradon Observatory for a talk and guided stargazing at Siblyback Lake on 10 August.

South West Lakes Launches Year of Green Action Water Project

Charity South West Lakes Trust is celebrating its success in securing a £95,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to run a two-year ‘I Love Water’ project focusing on water sustainability.

Roadford Lake, Devon

Roadford Lake sits within the stunning surroundings of the Wolf Valley, close to Launceston on the Cornwall border. One of the biggest and busiest inland waters in the South West, the lake is surrounded by a variety of natural habitats, including Culm Grasslands, woodlands, old pastures and orchards.

Wimbleball Lake, Exmoor

Wimbleball is a hub of colour and activity throughout all the seasons. Nestled within the rolling hills of Exmoor National Park, there are plenty of ways to get active at Wimbleball. With an array of walking and cycling trails winding around the 530 acre site, and a fantastic range of watersports and other activities available, this is the perfect location to spend a day outdoors – whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging expedition.

Lopwell Dam, Devon

Lopwell Dam is a beautiful spot at any time of the year; the colours and views on display are simply breathtaking. Near Plymouth, the Local Nature Reserve is home to a varied range of wildlife, both in and out of the water. Delve into Lopwell’s long history (all the way back to the 13th century!), and learn about how this peaceful haven was once a busy river quay that served Plymouth and London, with a mineshaft used for mining lead and silver.

Colliford, Cornwall

Colliford is Cornwall’s largest inland water, with a surface area of a whopping 900 acres – that’s about 682 football pitches! Located just off the A30, the lake is a couple of miles south of Jamaica Inn, the famous smugglers’ haunt immortalised by Daphne du Maurier.

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What we do

We are dedicated to the protection of the natural environment found at our lakes and are passionate about people from all walks of life being able to benefit from the wonderful countryside around our lakes. From walking and cycling to angling and watersports, we offer fantastic opportunities for great days out and regular visits for health and well-being, discovering and exploring at lakes across the south west of England.

Our impact

We believe engaging with the natural environment enables people to grow. Our Purpose is to protect special places for people and wildlife. Our mission is more people having great experiences.

Wistlandpound Reservoir, Exmoor

Wistlandpound Reservoir, located on the edge of Exmoor National Park, is a haven for wildlife and provides a beautiful and tranquil setting for a woodland walk or a day spent in the great outdoors.

Venford, Devon

Venford Reservoir is a hidden jewel in the midst of the craggy hills of Dartmoor National Park. The coniferous woodland provides a sheltered area to explore the countryside; why not set out on a stroll, spot wildlife and take a picnic along?

Donate

As a charity always aiming to improve the environment and provide great facilities for informal and organised activities, we appreciate donations for where our need is greatest at the time. If you would like to support our work with a one-off or regular donation and are happy for us to decide where the need is greatest, please use the donation buttons below.