Skip over main navigation
  • Log in
  • Basket: (0 items)
South West Lakes Trust
  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
Donate
  • Twitter
Menu
  • About us
    • What we do
    • Our impact
    • Our team
    • Join the team
    • Partners
    • NCS
    • News
    • Blog
  • Your Lakes
    • Visit the lakes
      • Visit the lakes
      • Car parking at the lakes
      • Welcoming dogs to our lakes
      • Reservoir safety
      • Wild camping
    • Devon
      • Roadford Lake
      • Burrator
      • Lopwell Dam
      • Fernworthy
      • Meldon
      • Kennick, Tottiford and Trenchford
      • Venford
      • Avon Dam
    • Cornwall
      • Argal and College
      • Colliford
      • Porth
      • Siblyback
      • Stithians
      • Crowdy
      • Tamar Lakes
    • Exmoor
      • Wimbleball
      • Wistlandpound
    • Dorset
      • Longham Lakes
      • Christchurch Harbour
    • Weddings
    • Meetings
    • Venue hire
    • Current reservoir levels
  • Support our work
    • Donate
    • Become a Friend of South West Lakes
    • Appeals
      • Roadford Lake Play and Explore
    • Volunteer for us
      • Why volunteer
      • Volunteering opportunities
      • Volunteer case study
    • Our Shop
  • Our Campaigns
  • What's On
  • Activities and Camping
  • Fishing
    • Coarse Fishing
    • Trout Fishing
    • Royalty Fishery
  • 01566771930
    • Log in
  • Basket: (0 items)
  • Crowdy, Cornwall

Crowdy, Cornwall

Crowdy Reservoir lies within a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) on the northern tip of Bodmin Moor, designated for its fantastic habitats and associated wildlife. Located a few miles from Camelford, and near the North Cornwall coastal villages of Tintagel, Port Isaac and Boscastle, the reservoir is perfectly situated for a family day out.

Wildlife at Crowdy

Why not try a spot of birdwatching? The moorland lake is home to a variety of bird species, including the grasshopper warbler, cuckoo and snipe. In winter, wildfowl are often out on the water, so keep a look out for teal and wigeon! You might even see a breathtaking starling murmuration; starlings gather into a nationally important roost nearby at Rough Tor, with numbers reaching into the several millions in some years.

Murmurations are one of the greatest wildlife spectacles you can witness: a swooping mass of thousands of birds, whirling in the sky in unison.

In 2018, South West Lakes Trust and Cornwall Butterfly Conservation searched the Crowdy marsh area for butterflies and moths, known collectively as the order Lepidoptera. The search revealed 24 different species of butterflies and moths, including the common blue butterfly, meadow brown butterfly, broom moth and large yellow underwing, to name but a few.

Starling murmurations

Why do they do it?
There are several reasons for this behaviour: for example, grouping together offers safety in numbers, because swooping predators find it difficult to target one bird in the middle of a hypnotising flock of thousands.

Starlings also gather to keep warm at night and to exchange information, such as good feeding areas. They gather over their roosting site, and perform their wheeling stunts before they roost for the night.

When and where?
• Autumn roosts usually begin to form in November
• More and more birds will flock together over time, and the number of starlings in a roost can swell to around 100,000
• The best time to see them is in the early evening, just before dusk. You don’t need any special equipment - just look to the skies.
• Starlings roost in places that are sheltered from harsh weather and predators, such as woodlands. However, during the day, they form daytime roosts in exposed places such as treetops, where the birds have good all-round visibility.

Walking at Crowdy

Explore the reservoir on a walk, and refuel with a picnic; excepting the area around the Nature Reserve, the banks are open for walking. A great 20 minute walk starts from the car park, across to the bird hide along the north bank.

In recognition of the high conservation value of this lake, there are no activities available, apart from free wilderness trout angling, at this location. Environment Agency rod licence holders may fish for free on this 115 acre water by spinning, fly or bait. Find out more here. 

Address: Crowdy Reservoir, Camelford, Cornwall, PL32 9XJ

50.49864700 -4.04322830 1 /burrator Burrator, Devon

1. Burrator, Devon

The jewel of Dartmoor, Burrator encompasses dramatic tors, open moorland, historic settlements and a Nature Reserve. Located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, Burrator Reservoir offers a unique day out for families, nature enthusiasts, historians and Dartmoor lovers alike.Read more

Published: 15/04/2019 00:00:00

Author: Annabel Underwood

50.78381260 -1.91422690 2 /longham-lakes Longham Lakes, Bournemouth

2. Longham Lakes, Bournemouth

Longham Lakes, located close to the idyllic town of Ferndown in Dorset, offers a fantastic day out for the whole family. Take a leisurely stroll around the two lakes and spot an abundance of wildlife which call Longham their home. Relax on the shorelines and take part in a spot of fishing; join one of the many community clubs which use the site, or simply make the most of the amazing photo opportunities at the lakes.Read more

Published: 12/04/2019 00:00:00

Author: Annabel Underwood

51.15969980 -3.93920660 3 /wistlandpound Wistlandpound Reservoir, Exmoor

3. 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.Read more

Published: 12/04/2019 00:00:00

Author: Annabel Underwood

51.06901980 -3.47484130 4 /wimbleball-lake Wimbleball Lake, Exmoor

4. 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.Read more

Published: 12/04/2019 00:00:00

Author: Annabel Underwood

50.87840570 -4.43233160 5 /tamar Tamar Lakes, Cornwall

5. Tamar Lakes, Cornwall

Surrounded by British countryside and nestled on the Cornwall and Devon border, Upper and Lower Tamar Lakes are steeped in industrial history and rich in flora and fauna. This is an idyllic to spot to set the imagination free, stretch your legs and enjoy the peace that comes from being near water.Read more

Published: 12/04/2019 00:00:00

Author: Annabel Underwood

50.18796890 -5.21574240 6 /stithians Stithians, Cornwall

6. Stithians, Cornwall

Stithians is the largest inland water in West Cornwall, with something for everyone to enjoy: from fishing to footpaths, wildlife to watersports, and café to camping, the lake is both a hub of activity and a peaceful escape.Read more

Published: 12/04/2019 00:00:00

Author: Annabel Underwood

50.49914190 -4.48888580 7 /siblyback Siblyback, Cornwall

7. Siblyback, Cornwall

Surrounded by the striking backdrop of Bodmin Moor, Siblyback Lake lies within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). There is a beautiful 5km round lake circuit, which is perfect for pushchairs, wheelchairs and bicycles. The path runs adjacent to the lake, and passes by the impressive Siblyback Dam and through woodlands.FRead more

Published: 11/04/2019 00:00:00

Author: Annabel Underwood

50.41895280 -5.01174430 8 /porth Porth, Cornwall

8. Porth, Cornwall

Nestled in a valley just outside of Newquay, Porth Reservoir is a beautiful destination for a family day out, a spot of birdwatching, or angling. A designated bird sanctuary and a paradise for birdwatchers, you might spot owls, woodpeckers and kingfishers flying around.Read more

Published: 11/04/2019 00:00:00

Author: Annabel Underwood

50.62000100 -4.63229670 9 /crowdy Crowdy, Cornwall

9. Crowdy, Cornwall

Crowdy Reservoir lies within a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) on the northern tip of Bodmin Moor, designated for its fantastic habitats and associated wildlife. Located a few miles from Camelford, and near the North Cornwall coastal villages of Tintagel, Port Isaac and Boscastle, the reservoir is perfectly situated for a family day out.Read more

Published: 11/04/2019 00:00:00

Author: Annabel Underwood

50.53095130 -4.58804340 10 /colliford Colliford, Cornwall

10. 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.Read more

Published: 11/04/2019 00:00:00

Author: Annabel Underwood

50.14901670 -5.12384790 11 /argal-and-college Argal and College, Cornwall

11. Argal and College, Cornwall

Located on the outskirts of Penryn in Cornwall, Argal and College reservoirs are a beautiful setting for a family day out.Read more

Published: 09/04/2019 00:00:00

Author: Annabel Underwood

50.47216970 -3.86511980 12 /avon-dam Avon Dam, Devon

12. Avon Dam, Devon

Avon Dam Reservoir is situated in beautiful open moorland on South Dartmoor – a wonderful location for some picturesque walks. To get to the reservoir, head to Shipley Bridge, where you will find car parking and toilet facilities with disabled access, provided by Dartmoor National Park.Read more

Published: 20/12/2018 00:00:00

Author:

50.52301190 -3.85527240 13 /venford Venford, Devon

13. 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?Read more

Published: 20/12/2018 00:00:00

Author:

50.64338800 -3.70015290 14 /kennick-tottiford-trenchford Kennick, Tottiford and Trenchford, Devon

14. Kennick, Tottiford and Trenchford, Devon

Discover a haven of history and beauty at three reservoirs on the eastern fringe of Dartmoor National Park. Soak up the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding farmland, forests and water on a woodland walk. Follow some lovely off-road paths and footbridges; Trenchford and Tottiford are linked by a network of trails, culminating in a rugged round lake walk at Tottiford.Read more

Published: 20/12/2018 00:00:00

Author:

50.70366760 -4.03921630 15 /meldon Meldon, Devon

15. Meldon, Devon

Meldon is situated on Dartmoor National Park, approximately 900 feet above sea level, with stunning views over the Okement Valley. Explore open moorland, dramatic tors and a Scheduled Monument: boasting a special combination of industrial heritage, wildlife and nature trails, Meldon is the perfect location to enjoy a unique day outdoors.Read more

Published: 20/12/2018 00:00:00

Author:

50.46540830 -4.15093110 16 /lopwell Lopwell Dam, Devon

16. 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.Read more

Published: 20/12/2018 00:00:00

Author:

50.64110040 -3.88844200 17 /fernworthy Fernworthy, Devon

17. Fernworthy, Devon

Near the idyllic village of Chagford, Fernworthy Reservoir is an archaeological jewel in the heart of Dartmoor National Park. Walk through meadows, woodland and moorland, and take in the fascinating cultural heritage of ancient stone cairns, Bronze Age hut circles and submerged clapper bridges, while enjoying beautiful lakeside views.Read more

Published: 20/12/2018 00:00:00

Author:

50.68822070 -4.23099390 18 /roadford Roadford Lake, Devon

18. 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.Read more

Published: 20/12/2018 00:00:00

Author:

Published: 11th April, 2019

Updated: 17th October, 2023

Author: Annabel Underwood

Location: Crowdy reservoir, Camelford, PL32 9XJ

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Latest

  • #ItsYourOutdoors Countdown to Christmas

    #ItsYourOutdoors Countdown to Christmas

    25 festive activities to enjoy as you count down to Christmas!

  • Exploring the Hidden Depths of Porth

    Exploring the Hidden Depths of Porth

    You are invited to an evening talk hosted by South West Lakes and South West Water to hear wildlife film maker and self-confessed fish twitcher Jack Perks.

  • Upper Tamar Lake Tree Planting

    Upper Tamar Lake Tree Planting

    Join us at Upper Tamar Lake County Wildlife site on Thursday 7 December to plant trees and improve biodiversity.

  • Managing, restoring and conserving our Sites of Special Scientific Interest

    Managing, restoring and conserving our Sites of Special Scientific Interest

    Meet our new ecologist Teri, who joined us in June and is working on a South West Water funded part-time project helping to manage, restore and conserve those of our sites that lie within designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest.

Related

  • Burrator, Devon

    Burrator, Devon

    The jewel of Dartmoor, Burrator encompasses dramatic tors, open moorland, historic settlements and a Nature Reserve. Located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, Burrator Reservoir offers a unique day out for families, nature enthusiasts, historians and Dartmoor lovers alike.

  • Longham Lakes, Bournemouth

    Longham Lakes, Bournemouth

    Longham Lakes, located close to the idyllic town of Ferndown in Dorset, offers a fantastic day out for the whole family. Take a leisurely stroll around the two lakes and spot an abundance of wildlife which call Longham their home. Relax on the shorelines and take part in a spot of fishing; join one of the many community clubs which use the site, or simply make the most of the amazing photo opportunities at the lakes.

  • Wistlandpound Reservoir, Exmoor

    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.

  • Wimbleball Lake, Exmoor

    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.

  • Tamar Lakes, Cornwall

    Tamar Lakes, Cornwall

    Surrounded by British countryside and nestled on the Cornwall and Devon border, Upper and Lower Tamar Lakes are steeped in industrial history and rich in flora and fauna. This is an idyllic to spot to set the imagination free, stretch your legs and enjoy the peace that comes from being near water.

  • Stithians, Cornwall

    Stithians, Cornwall

    Stithians is the largest inland water in West Cornwall, with something for everyone to enjoy: from fishing to footpaths, wildlife to watersports, and café to camping, the lake is both a hub of activity and a peaceful escape.

  • Siblyback, Cornwall

    Siblyback, Cornwall

    Surrounded by the striking backdrop of Bodmin Moor, Siblyback Lake lies within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). There is a beautiful 5km round lake circuit, which is perfect for pushchairs, wheelchairs and bicycles. The path runs adjacent to the lake, and passes by the impressive Siblyback Dam and through woodlands.F

  • Porth, Cornwall

    Porth, Cornwall

    Nestled in a valley just outside of Newquay, Porth Reservoir is a beautiful destination for a family day out, a spot of birdwatching, or angling. A designated bird sanctuary and a paradise for birdwatchers, you might spot owls, woodpeckers and kingfishers flying around.

  • Colliford, Cornwall

    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.

  • Argal and College, Cornwall

    Argal and College, Cornwall

    Located on the outskirts of Penryn in Cornwall, Argal and College reservoirs are a beautiful setting for a family day out.

Most read

  • Current reservoir levels

    Current reservoir levels

    See the current water levels in our reservoirs.

  • Equipment Hire

    Equipment Hire

    Experience the ultimate family adventure by exploring the lakes at your own pace. We have a variety of watersports equipment available to hire including; kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards and more.

  • Wimbleball Lake, Exmoor

    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.

  • South West Lakes Booking Confirmation

    Thank you for your South West Lakes booking. You’ll receive a confirmation email shortly with details of your booking.

  • Book Now

    Book Now

  • Self-launch and Launch Membership

    Self-launch and Launch Membership

    Already have your own kit? You can launch your own kayak, canoe, dingy or stand up paddleboard at our lakes! And, if you are a regular visitor, you can even become a member and launch as often as you like at all five activity centres!

  • Wimbleball Campsite

    Wimbleball Campsite

    Experience a family camping holiday like no other at Wimbleball Lake, nestled in the hills of Exmoor National Park. Create the ultimate camping break packed with adventure, creating lasting memories for the whole family.

  • Roadford Lake, Devon

    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.

  • Join the team

    Current vacancies

  • Siblyback, Cornwall

    Siblyback, Cornwall

    Surrounded by the striking backdrop of Bodmin Moor, Siblyback Lake lies within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). There is a beautiful 5km round lake circuit, which is perfect for pushchairs, wheelchairs and bicycles. The path runs adjacent to the lake, and passes by the impressive Siblyback Dam and through woodlands.F

Subscribe to our e-newsletter

* indicates required

Please tick the email button below if you would like to receive South West Lakes' monthly e-newsletter:

You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails.

We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices here.

Links

  • Contact
  • Jobs
  • Report an incident
  • Sitemap
  • Data Protection Policy
  • Privacy policy
  • Login
  • Logout
  • Manager
  • My Details

Registered with Fundraising Regulator badge white out


Registered Office:
Roadford Lake, Broadwoodwidger
Lifton, Devon, PL16 0RL
Open:
Monday – Friday, 9.00am – 5.00pm
01566 771930
[email protected]

South West Lakes Trust Registered Charity No. 1079966     
Company No. 03946529

From 16 November 2023 coarse fishing day tickets will only be available through Catch. Download the Catch app from App Store or Google Play now and create your free account. More information here.

Manage Cookie Preferences