Herring gate

The water at Herring Gate sits still and dark, ringed by Devon moorland that feels properly remote despite being just a few miles from Tavistock. It's a small reservoir rather than a natural lake, but that somehow adds to its appeal - there's something appealing about human intervention creating a spot this peaceful.

You can walk the full circuit in under an hour, though most people dawdle. The paths are decent underfoot, well-trodden by locals who clearly know a good thing. The far side opens up views across the water to moorland beyond, and on a clear day you can see for miles. Bring binoculars if you're into birds - the reservoir attracts waterfowl, and the quiet makes spotting easier than noisier spots.

It's free to visit and there's parking by the gate, which is handy. Worth allowing 90 minutes if you're not rushing. The walk suits families with older kids and anyone after a genuine leg-stretch without navigating technical terrain. Younger children might find it a bit dull after half an hour - there's water and views but no adventure playground or ice cream van energy.

If you're staying at Woodovis Holiday Park just down the road, this is an easy morning or late-afternoon excursion. The moorland around Tavistock has plenty of other walking options, but Herring Gate itself is worth the detour if you want somewhere genuinely quiet. Go early or late to avoid what few crowds do show up.