Little Bradley Ponds. Photo, Dave Chamberlain
Little Bradley Ponds
Location
Know before you go
Entry fee
NoParking information
Limited to roadside parking at reserve's entranceGrazing animals
NoWalking trails
Some steep gradients; can be muddy in places, wellingtons are recommended; reserve is split into two by the road and access to one of the halves is via a stile allow 30 minutes to walk around the ponds.
Access
Paths and boardwalks. Some steep gradients; can be muddy in places, wellingtons are recommended; reserve is split into two by a minor road.
Dogs
When to visit
Opening times
Open at all timesBest time to visit
April to OctoberAbout the reserve
Two large ponds in an area of former clay working; well known for its abundance of dragonflies
Habitat
Contact us
Location map
How to get to Little Bradley Ponds
Two large ponds in an area of former clay working; well known for its abundance of dragonflies
Emperor dragonfly. Photo, Neil Bygrave
Dragonfly heaven
Little Bradley Ponds consists of two large ponds in an area of former clay workings. More than 20 species of dragonfly and damselfly have been spotted here. Rarities include hairy dragonflies, downy emerald dragonflies, ruddy darters, small red damselflies and scarce blue-tailed damselflies.
The ponds are also an important amphibian breeding spot, especially for toads. Great crested newts have also been found here.
Be aware
The nature reserve's two ponds are deep, steep-sided and contain hidden obstructions. For these reasons swimming is not permitted.
Combine a visit to this nature reserve with one to nearby Chudleigh Knighton Heath. If you like heathland then you'll also enjoy visiting our Bovey Heathfield nature reserve - just 10 minutes away by road. You can visit all three nature reserves by taking our 4.5 mile Bovey Basin Wild Walk.
Little Bradley Ponds. Photo, Simon Williams
Little Bradley Ponds. Photo, Simon Williams
Ruddy Darter. Photo, Chris Root
Grass snake. Photo, Chris Root
Little Bradley Ponds lily pads. Photo, Simon Willams
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