Bystock Pools — Attraction in East Devon

Hidden away in Woodbury Common is Bystock Pools. Owned by Devon Wildlife trust this man made pond used to be a reservoir in the late 1800's. If you explore the area you will find the ruins of the old pumping house hidden amongst the trees. Now it is a quiet peaceful location, ideal for short or longer walks if you wish. There is good accessibility around the pond for wheelchairs and buggy's, but for longer walks onto the Common the paths are a bit more challenging. Popular with locals, the parking ( verge) can be tight but i have rarely had a problem finding a place to stop. If you visit in the summer keep an eye out for the illusive terrapins you may see them sunbathing on a fallen tree out in the pond. Visit in April or May around Dusk and you will hear the eerie humming sound of nightjars as they nest...

One of my most favourite spots near Exmouth. On busy summer days when Exmouth town and beach are chocker with traffic and tourists, escape here instead. Such a lovely spot to stop and take a moment to just be. Walk past the pond and up the bank, there are some lovely walks through the scrubland. Follow the path and the board-walk to find the beautiful clear spring, or head into the woods and build a den. Keep going past the woods and you head up on to the common. Such a great find.. just don't...

Beautiful location, definitely worth a visit. This is a boggy area, and the path does cross some muddy areas, so wear appropriate footwear. The paths are well-maintained wooden walkways. Disability access is limited; the first pool has good access, then the path crosses tree roots. Plenty of seating areas. We saw newts, kingfishers, lizards, butterflies, and fish. There is also an opportunity to help with some citizen science research related to ash dieback. Parking is available...