Discovering local culture

Celebrating and engaging people with our built and social heritage.

Burrator Discovery Centre

Local culture and communities are highly valued at our lakes, be it local food, community history or the preservation of historic buildings. It is important to us and our local communities to ensure that these features remain for future generations to enjoy, explore and discover. We want to inspire people and communities to be involved in their special heritage.

Think of the lakes and you think of the modern water supply structures, but look closer and you’ll discover a long history of land use: Mesolithic man in the Wolf Valley at Roadford, ancient stones at Stithians near Redruth, hut circles and farmsteads at Fernworthy on Dartmoor, Drakes Leat supplying water to Plymouth from Burrator.

Did you know we also manage Wheal Martyn Clayworks in St Austell?
Visit the original Victorian china clay works and discover Cornwall's heritage; explore real-life stories, tools and machinery, and find out how Cornwall's largest mining industry still shapes our world today.

We want to uncover the rich history of our sites so local communities and visitors can understand Children at Longstone Manor Burrator what’s at the lakes. We want to inspire people and communities to be involved in their special heritage.

Help us to make sure our rich history and culture is preserved and remembered.

Wheal Martyn Clayworks

Latest

Giving Tuesday Now

On Tuesday 5 May are will be joining charities from across the work for Giving Tuesday Now. A day of generosity and support for our charities in response to the unprecedented need caused by Covid-19.
Hunt for reservoir photos and memorabilia

Do you have photos that show how the different areas looked before the reservoirs were built? Or, do you have any stories or memories of living in the area at that time that you would be willing to share?
Cornwall Reptile and Amphibian Group working with South West Lakes Trust

Often overlooked and misunderstood, our native reptiles and amphibians are a vital part of the food chain as both predators and prey. The sites we manage provide vital habitats for these animals so it is important to know where our frogs, toads, lizards and snakes are, so we can help protect them, their habitats and the other species which depend on them.
Things to do at home

We know how important play is for children (and adults), especially when we are all at home. Here are some suggestions for activities that provide a bit of fun, time well-spent together, and ideas to get moving about in your garden.

Vote for your favourite photo competition entry

It's time to have your say!
Coronavirus update 20/05/2020

In line with government guidance to continue to stay home but enjoy more time outdoors we have commenced our phased re-opening of the lakes. We urge visitors to stay alert and be prepared for their visit Read more here.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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?
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.