Fernworthy Reservoir Improved Access

To improve access and interpretation around Fernworthy Reservoir. The project includes footpath improvements to the round reservoir footpath and repair of ‘Potters Walk’ wheelchair friendly route. The project is based around the banks of Fernworthy Reservoir in the parishes of Chagford and Gidleigh.

Fernworthy Reservoir Improved Access

Fernworthy Reservoir Pic 1

Fernworthy Reservoir

Based around the banks of Fernworthy Reservoir in the parishes of Chagford and Gidleigh, the aim of this project was to improve access and interpretation for visitors. The project included footpath, bridge and board-walk enhancements to the round reservoir footpath and repair of ‘Potters Walk’ wheelchair friendly route.

Fernworthy Dam

Path improvements have made the far side of the reservoir more accessible

Successfully completed in year 2 of the Scheme, the improved access allows a wider range of people to engage with the natural and cultural heritage of this part of Dartmoor. Low key interpretation is sympathetically placed to encourage visitors to discover more about the Dartmoor Story.

In particular, along Potters Walk there are some fine examples of Bronze Age hut circles. Fernworthy reservoir itself and the plantation woodlands around it also make interesting interpretive stories to show how we have changed the landscape of Dartmoor in more recent times. The round reservoir path goes through important Rhos pasture- the improved path will minimise erosion and the impact of walkers on this habitat.

Fernworthy Bridge

Bridge improvements on the 'round reservoir' route

This project is now complete.

Want to know more?

Speak to James Platts, South West Lakes Trust
Tel: 01579 349846
Email: jplatts@swlakestrust.org.uk

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Potter's Walk Improvements

Existing trails at Fernworthy Reservoir are being upgraded; which will allow access to some parts of the Lake to those who are less agile. Kit Hancock, South West Lakes Trust local Warden, visited Fernworthy last Friday to check the progress of the contractors, ‘Landmarc’, who are undertaking the work. Kit said, “It is great to see Potter’s Walk almost complete and usable again. This short, lakeside walk has always been popular with many people. Landmarc are a good company to have on the job as they have been only too willing to work with us and the Park to protect hut circles near the trail and keep things neat and tidy as they go, which will help the path naturalise quickly.” Looking ahead they will shortly be working on reinstating the permissive footpath through the felled woodland and woodland to the bird hide; then making the path and steps below the dam easier to negotiate. Apart from the odd stream crossing, boardwalk improvements and soft spot, everything else between the bird hide right round to the dam will be kept much as it is, making it easier to negotiate but without running a track right round. Potter’s Walk, which should be fully open in October, is a circular route of about ¾ of a mile, suitable for disabled users and those less agile. It has resting places and some slopes which some may require assistance. The walk is named after Sydney Potter who lived and worked at Fernworthy for over 50 years. More information about the project is available here Moor than meets the eye is also developing a Heritage Trails interactive web map to help visitors plan their visit to the moor. It will allow visitors to choose a route from a list or submit their own and will provide information about features of historic or wildlife importance.

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Discover the Dartmoor Story

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Last update: 12 Apr 2017 12:28pm