Little Bradley Ponds

This nature reserve is one of Devon's top places for dragonfly and damselfly watching. Bring binoculars for an up close view of these wonderful insects.

Location

1km from Dunley Cross, heading towards Bovey Tracey. Look for small turn on left.

Bovey Tracey

Devon

TQ13 9PJ

Know before you go

Size

4 hectares

Entry fee

Parking information

Limited to roadside parking at reserve's entrance

Grazing animals

Walking 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

On a lead

When to visit

Opening times

Open at all times

Best time to visit

April to October

About the reserve

Two large ponds in an area of former clay working; well known for its abundance of dragonflies

Species

Habitat

Wetlands

Contact us

Devon Wildlife Trust

Contact number: 01392 279244

Contact email: contactus@devonwildlifetrust.org

Location map

How to get to Little Bradley Ponds

Click here to find out 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 at Bystock Pools nature reserve — 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 .