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Bystock Pools

Exmouth, United Kingdom•4.7(202)•Country Park, Nature Reserve

Explore a wonderfully diverse nature reserve featuring a lily-pad filled lake, heathland boardwalks, and wildflower meadows perfect for family walks.

Bystock Pools is one of Devon Wildlife Trust's most popular nature reserves, offering visitors a rich tapestry of natural habitats across 27 hectares. The reserve features a beautiful lake, heathland areas, and meadows that create excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and peaceful outdoor exploration. Families can enjoy clearly marked walking routes with a circular walk taking approximately one hour to complete. The reserve is particularly renowned for its dragonflies and damselflies, which are especially active in spring and summer, making it an ideal destination for insect spotting enthusiasts. Visitors will also encounter diverse bird species including nightjars and yellowhammers, alongside opportunities to spot butterflies and enjoy blooming heather across the landscape. A short accessible path runs around the reservoir, while boardwalks and rough paths allow access to other areas of the reserve. Bystock Pools welcomes families of all ages with free entry and dog-friendly policies (dogs must be on leads). The reserve is open year-round and accessible at all times, making it suitable for family outings throughout the seasons. With good mobile phone signal and accessible trails available, it provides a safe and welcoming environment for nature lovers seeking to get away from it all in a tranquil setting.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 00:00 – 23:59
Tuesday: 00:00 – 23:59
Wednesday: 00:00 – 23:59
Thursday: 00:00 – 23:59
Friday: 00:00 – 23:59
Saturday: 00:00 – 23:59
Sunday: 00:00 – 23:59

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.7(202 reviews)
A
Amy W

Amy W

3 years ago

A beautiful tranquil location to visit. We did the mindfulness walk which was just what was needed. Make sure to venture beyond the pools out to the heath and spot the ponies! There is only a small amount of parking at the entrance, maybe 6 or 7 only, so may depend on when you visit.

M
Matthew Fransch

Matthew Fransch

3 years ago

Beautiful location, definitely worth a visit. This is a boggy area, and the path does cross some muddy areas, so wear appropriate footwear. The paths are well-maintained wooden walkways. Disability access is limited; the first pool has good access, then the path crosses tree roots. Plenty of seating areas. We saw newts, kingfishers, lizards, butterflies, and fish. There is also an opportunity to help with some citizen science research related to ash dieback. Parking is available on the road.

A
a agha

a agha

3 years ago

Lovely, tranquil. 30 mins drive from Exeter. Little walk around the lake/pool. Ducks, some sweet birds, and water lotus in bloom! Parked on the side of the track next to entrance to three pools. Narrow car track leading to Pools. Feels dark because of the shade.

L
Lynn Higgins

Lynn Higgins

3 years ago

You will find car parks and places to park along the road near to the Nature Reserve. These car parks are free. There are board walks around the pool. You will see a range of wildlife for example dragonflies. The nature reserve contains different landscapes with a number of paths crossing. On the meadow you may see Exmoor ponies. There are three ponies grazing.

L
Laura

Laura

4 years ago

Such a peaceful setting, lovely to walk around and see the ponies. Perfect for children to explore and there is a suitable path for wheelchair users initially with good views of the pools.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at Bystock Pools

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Bystock Pools

Is Bystock Pools free to visit?

Entry to Bystock Pools is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

What ages is Bystock Pools suitable for?

Bystock Pools is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Bystock Pools dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Bystock Pools.

Is there parking at Bystock Pools?

Bystock Pools doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Bystock Pools?

Bystock Pools doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Bystock Pools pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Bystock Pools is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Bystock Pools?

Bystock Pools is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Bystock Pools by public transport?

Bystock Pools isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.
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