Slade Reservoir (Upper)

Finding this working reservoir tucked away in the Devon countryside feels like stumbling upon a proper local secret. Slade Reservoir sits quietly above Ilfracombe, a man-made lake that's refreshingly free from crowds and tourist trappings. The walk around takes about forty minutes at a gentle pace, with decent paths that won't trouble most visitors.

Birdwatchers will have a field day here - I spotted herons, moorhens, and a good variety of ducks during my visit. The fishing looks promising too, though you'd need to check locally about permits. What strikes you most is the peaceful atmosphere; just the sound of water lapping and birds calling.

Kids might find it a bit quiet after the initial excitement of seeing the dam wall and spillway. But for anyone wanting to escape the beach crowds of nearby Woolacombe, it's a lovely spot for a picnic or contemplative walk. The reservoir connects well with footpaths heading towards the coast if you fancy extending the outing.

Perfect for families staying at Hele Valley Holiday Park or the camping sites around Woolacombe - it's close enough for an easy morning trip before hitting the beach. No facilities here, so bring everything you need. The lack of commercial development is precisely what makes it special.