Chard reservoir

Chard Reservoir has a diverse mixture of habitats, including open water, reed beds, meadows, and woodland with many different tree species. These attract a wide range of birds and other wildlife. There is a boardwalk which borders the reservoir, but it is not possible to walk the whole way around the water without using the road as some of the reservoir is privately owned.

The paths are suitable for most wheelchairs and buggies, and there is a bird hide overlooking the reservoir with up-to-date bird records. For more information about the site including a map, download the  Chard Reservoir leaflet.

Dogs are allowed on site, but are restricted to certain areas in order to protect the wildlife - there are clear signs showing where dogs are not allowed.

To get to Chard reservoir, turn off down Oaklands Avenue from the A30 (East Street) and park in the free car park at the end of the road.

Chard Reservoir is home to a wide variety of wildlife species, and is especially good for birdlife. From the wildfowl of the open water such as shelduck, grebes and cormorants, to the birds of the reeds such as warblers, and of the woods such as blue tits and finches, there is always something to see!

If you visit throughout the summer months the meadows that border the reservoir are buzzing with insects such as butterflies, grasshoppers and ladybirds. If you are really quiet and are visiting early or late in the day, you may be lucky enough to see deer, foxes or owls.

Angling is controlled by the Chard and District Angling Club in conjunction with South Somerset District Council. To come and fish for the day at Chard Reservoir you may arrive at any time and set up on the bank near the angling car park (see below for directions).

Someone from the Angling Club comes round regularly, and will ask for payment for a 24 hour ticket, which runs from 8am. Tickets are £10 for non-members, £8 for members. To get to the anglers car park follow the signs from the A358 for Chaffcombe, continue along Chaffcombe Road and the car park is on your right.

Please make sure you read and abide by the rules written on the notice board on site before angling. There is an ecoloo available for anglers to use. Please take your litter home.

If you would like to volunteer at the reservoir on a Friday to help the ranger carry out hands-on, practical tasks such as tree and reed bed management and keeping the site safe and tidy, please contact the Ham Hill Office on 01935 823617 for more information.

You do not need any previous experience and skills - all we ask it that you fill in a  volunteer registration form and have a reasonable level of fitness and a good sense of humour!

Find out more about volunteering

Various countryside events take place throughout the year, such as bat and bird related walks.

Go to the Countryside activities and events page