The jewel of Dartmoor, Burrator encompasses dramatic tors, open moorland, historic settlements and a Nature Reserve. Located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, Burrator Reservoir offers a unique day out for families, nature enthusiasts, historians and Dartmoor lovers alike.

Discover the interplay between history and wildlife at Burrator 

Uncover history in the on-site Discovery Centre, which opened in 2014 as part of the Burrator Historic and Natural Environment project. See displays, spoken history and short films, engaging all ages, from toddlers to grandparents.

This year's special display is based on the Magnificent Dams, how they were constructed and subsequently raised to increase the volume of stored water. 

The Discovery Centre is open between 10.00am and 3.30pm, subject to volunteer availability. Please phone us to check if making a special journey. 

Pop into the Discovery Centre to find out about how the reservoir was constructed, the location of historical sites, recreations of what the area used to look like, underwater footage, where to walk, and lots more! New for 2026 is a display showing the history of the Dam. Please check the centre is open if making a special visit to see the display. 

Explore ample walks, history and wildlife; discover the ruins of abandoned farms, evidence of tin working, the remains of the Princetown Railway and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Spot cists, cairns and prehistoric settlements. Keep an eye out for Dartmoor’s iconic ponies too! For more information on the history of Burrator, take a look at this fascinating documentary produced by Michael McCloy in 1975, and compare how the reservoir looked then, to how it appears today. 

“The Discovery Centre, WOW, what a fab resource. We saw it in the early stages and the finished centre is so successful as a staging post for events. My children via school helped with the designs on the totem pole in the entrance, and they love having that link. I cannot speak highly enough of this building, steeped in history but brimming with up to date thinking and tech. A stunning location and backdrop for many an event I have attended.”

The area is bursting with wildlife, colour and nature; nuthatches, robins, great tits, blue tits and Horeshoe bats are just some of the species that call Burrator home. Look down and spot a brilliant range of flora, such as bluebells, poppies, daffodils, primroses, ferns and Welsh poppies!

Walking at Burrator

With miles of paths and moorland to explore, including an easy access 1.5 km wildlife trail in the Arboretum suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, Burrator is the ideal location for both keen ramblers and those who simply want to enjoy a leisurely stroll and take in the stunning views. Watch in awe as water from the historic Devonport Leat cascades down the valley, finishing at Burrator in a waterfall. Don’t forget to take the camera and capture those special memories.

Walk up to the water’s edge through woodlands and a wetland Nature Reserve. Navigate open moorland and explore one of Dartmoor’s most spectacular tors, Sheepstor, which dominates Burrator and offers one of the most impressive views of the reservoir. Pop into Burrator Discovery Centre to pick up a free map of the site or one of our self-guided walk leaflets (donations appreciated) to enable you to explore the old farms, tin working areas, and railway in more detail. Parking is available at various locations including the Quarry car park, Norsworthy Bridge car park and the Arboretum car park. Donations boxes are available and we really appreciate your donations, however big or small, so that we can keep this special site maintained for your enjoyment. Click here for more walks.

Click here to download our map before your next visit. 

Click here for more information about accessibility on Dartmoor.  

Our Burrator Wildlife Guide is also available to purchase. Created and launched by three South West Lakes Trust volunteers, the guide contains information on 109 species found around Burrator Reservoir. Purchase online or call 01566771930.

Please note:

- There is limited mobile phone reception around the reservoir.

- Public toilets at the main dam are open seven days a week

- An ice cream van is regularly based at the main dam and in the car park at Norsworthy Bridge on busy days. 

Fishing at Burrator

Try a spot of rainbow trout fishing from bank or boat. Burrator is one of the most tranquil and picturesque natural angling venues in the South West.

Find out more here. 

Address: Burrator Discovery Centre, Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6PE.

Telephone: 01822 855700