Slapton Ley is the largest natural lake in south-west England. Although it is only separated from the sea by a narrow shingle bar, it is entirely freshwater. The lake is surrounded by reedbeds, marshes and woodland habitats. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and was declared a National Nature Reserve (NNR) in 1993. The nature reserve is open daily and there are no entrance fees. As well as being a stunning spot for walking, the outstanding views also make Slapton Ley a great location for film and photo shoots. The NNR is managed by the Field Studies Council in partnership with the owners Whitley Wildlife Conservation Trust, Natural England and South Hams District Council.
Absolutely stunning location. Beautiful scenery and bird life. The walk down, and around the lake is reminiscent of the Florida glades and swampland. Great pathway and view points of the lake. Recommend a visit.
Love it here, been visiting since I was a kid. Great views and walks.
Great place to visit and wander around the Ley. Parking on Slapton sands car park is reasonably priced and it's then a short walk to the path around the Ley. The visitor centre is interesting and there are information sheets in some of the trees. Definitely worth a visit.
Worth stopping off rather than passing through. Pleasant journey break with great natural scenery and not to be underestimated cafes and pubs. Poignant reminders of the second world war
Can get very busy during the summer months and parking can sometimes be difficult if not a rather large burden, people tend to congregate near their cars though and for such a large beach apart from the three clusters at each end, in the middle and around the start bay inn..the majority of the beach is as good as empty providing you are prepared to walk a little and leave your pride and joy chosen method of transportation under the watchful eye of the local Devonshire cider drinking hoodlums at your own peril!!(I joke, there is probably no safer parking spot in the UK...unless of course an impending South Easterly hurricane is imminent, then I'd advise putting your penny farthing or Tesla up behind the lagoon on the hill!
Very clean and dog friendly.
On-site services
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Hiking
Public toilet
Good for kids
Kid-friendly hikes
Dogs allowed
Hello! I'm your AI guide for Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve. I can help you with information about this attraction, including its history, best times to visit, and tips for your visit. What would you like to know?
Discover hotels in 6, A379, Kingsbridge TQ7 2QP
Searching for hotels...
Absolutely stunning location. Beautiful scenery and bird life. The walk down, and around the lake is reminiscent of the Florida glades and swampland. Great pathway and view points of the lake. Recommend a visit.
Love it here, been visiting since I was a kid. Great views and walks.
Great place to visit and wander around the Ley. Parking on Slapton sands car park is reasonably priced and it's then a short walk to the path around the Ley. The visitor centre is interesting and there are information sheets in some of the trees. Definitely worth a visit.
Worth stopping off rather than passing through. Pleasant journey break with great natural scenery and not to be underestimated cafes and pubs. Poignant reminders of the second world war
Can get very busy during the summer months and parking can sometimes be difficult if not a rather large burden, people tend to congregate near their cars though and for such a large beach apart from the three clusters at each end, in the middle and around the start bay inn..the majority of the beach is as good as empty providing you are prepared to walk a little and leave your pride and joy chosen method of transportation under the watchful eye of the local Devonshire cider drinking hoodlums at your own peril!!(I joke, there is probably no safer parking spot in the UK...unless of course an impending South Easterly hurricane is imminent, then I'd advise putting your penny farthing or Tesla up behind the lagoon on the hill!
Very clean and dog friendly.