Slapton Ley Nature Reserve, Slapton, Kingsbridge, Devon
Slapton Ley Nature Reserve lies between the beach at Slapton Sands and the picturesque village of Slapton, between Kingsbridge and Dartmouth on the coast of South Devon. At a mile and a half long this freshwater lake is the largest in the South West and has been awarded the status of a National Nature Reserve and SSSI. The lake is surrounded by reed beds, marshes and trees; needless to say, it’s a magnet for wildlife and is a huge draw to birdwatchers and ecologists. There are flocks of migratory birds and wetland fowl that can be viewed from the hides, bittern have been heard booming out across the marshes, and the melodious song of Cetti’s warblers is not unusual. Otters have made their home here and kingfishers can be seen darting across the waters; it’s a nature lover’s paradise and despite the walking and cycling trails in the reserve, the sense of tranquility can be overwhelming.
Turn your phone off, take the time to amble round, keeping very quiet and noticing what you spot. Stand still for a moment and think about what you can hear, what you can feel; it’s pure soul fodder this, the best way to disconnect from the frenetic pace of life. Round it off with a pint at The Tower Inn right next to the ivy clad tower ruins in the village. Just the kind of thing you should be doing when you’re on your group holidays in Devon.
All information correct at the time of writing