Higher Water

Higher Water sits just outside Newton Abbot, a proper little reservoir that most tourists whiz past without a second glance. It's the kind of place locals know about and visitors stumble upon by accident - which is precisely why it's worth the detour. The walk around the water takes about forty minutes at a gentle pace, with decent views across the basin and into the surrounding Devon woodland. There's a car park at the top, though it fills up on summer weekends, and the whole thing is free to access. The paths are well-maintained but can get muddy after rain, so proper shoes are essential. Families will find it manageable - it's not too demanding for younger legs, and there's enough space for them to burn off energy without worrying about cliff edges or serious hazards. Birdwatchers should bring binoculars. The water attracts herons, cormorants, and on a good day you might spot something rarer. Winter visits are often better than summer when it gets busy with walkers from the nearby holiday parks like Oakmoor Touring Park and Lady's Mile Holiday Park. If you're staying in the area and need a morning walk that doesn't require driving far, it does the job. It's not dramatic enough to merit a special trip on its own, but as part of a broader explore around Newton Abbot and the surrounding parks, it slots in nicely. Allow two hours maximum if you're being thorough.