Exmoor, Clatworthy Reservoir. Walking with Wheels

A lovely, simple ramble but with a few challenges.

Approach. On the A39 between Williton and Washford, at the island turn south on the B3190. At the T junction at Raleigh’s Cross, turn right on the B3190 towards Wheedon Cross for 3.6 miles. At the small crossroads turn left, signed for Wiveliscombe. In 0.9 mile, at the first junction, turn left for Clatworthy on Waysdown Lane. In 1.2 miles at a T-junction turn left on Hollands Lane. In 0.1 mile go past the turning on the left for Clatworthy Fishing lodge and immediately turn left into the Reservoir entrance lane.

Going anti-clockwise around the reservoir:  Starting from the main car park, just west of the village of Clatworthy, scooters have to turn left for a few yards before turning right.

Descend and cross the dam. Soon after the track leaves the road and turns very sharply left – and steeply uphill. Continue uphill for about 200 metres before descending at about the same angle of about 13 degrees (this is close to 14 degrees = 25% = 1:4 which is the limit a Tramper is allowed to climb).  Take the climb very slowly and watch your current so as not to overheat and damage your motor – if you smell burning it is too late!

Most of the rest of the track is very pleasant, well kept, grass. However there may some muddy patches which need care to pass safely.

There are two fords.

At the fishing lodge, take the road back to the car park entrance taking great care on the short stretch of public road as there is limited visibility.

Wessex Water Contacts (from their web): Rangers: Les Carter and Danny Ford

Brendon Hills, west Somerset TA4 2EJ.  01984 624658

https://www.wessexwater.co.uk/About-us/Community/Visiting-our-reservoirs/Clatworthy-reservoir/