A PLACE WORTH KNOWING
A riverside walk with coffee waiting at the start
Follow the Avon from Shipley Bridge towards the dam, with a coffee stop when Taylor Made is attending.
This is a satisfying way to give a coffee outing a little more adventure. From Shipley Bridge, the River Avon leads through trees and past small waterfalls before the valley opens onto moorland. Dartmoor’s suggested accessible route reaches the base of the dam, with picnic stops along the way. Taylor Made adds the prospect of a warm drink and something sweet on your return: South West Lakes lists organic tea and coffee, handmade cakes and ice cream. Check the van’s latest update and the current access notice before leaving home, then choose a turnaround point that suits the day.
The lovely little details
- Start at Shipley Bridge car park.
- Official dam-base route: 4 km return.
- Coffee van attendance needs checking.
SOMETHING TO LOOK OUT FOR
Pause in the wooded valley
The small waterfalls near the start are a reason to slow down before the landscape opens out.
From the venueTHE USEFUL LITTLE DETAILS
Make a little plan.
Getting there
The start is at Shipley Bridge car park, off the lane bend beside the river, about three miles northwest of South Brent. Pay-and-display parking.
Before you set off
The walk needs no reservation. Check Taylor Made’s Facebook page for attendance; no reliable fixed opening timetable was verified.
Choose the dam-base route
Dartmoor gives 2 km each way on a wide tarmac route, with picnic tables at 1 km and 1.75 km.
Check the detailsReservoir shore is different
The longer approach to the lake includes a steep final half-mile with loose gravel; do not assume the entire reservoir visit is accessible.
Check the detailsCoffee when the van is there
Taylor Made is listed by the landowner. Check current attendance rather than assuming daily service.
Check the detailsToilets
Accessible toilets are beside the car park; the latest works notice says these remain open.
Check the detailsDetails checked 25 October 2026. Opening times, menus and access arrangements can change; confirm anything essential directly before travelling.
About this feature & our sources
This is an editorial discovery, researched from the venue’s own information and any visitor sources linked here. It is not a paid partnership or a first-hand review. Individual visitor tips reflect that person’s experience; they are not a live rating or a promise about your visit.
- South West Lakes · access notice, walk and coffee van ↗
- Dartmoor National Park · official accessible route ↗
- Taylor Made Coffee Van · business updates ↗
- Taylor Made · claimed business listing and Shipley Bridge location ↗
Each photo has its own source and credit in the gallery. Spotted something that needs updating? Let us know.
