Blagdon Lake in North Somerset.

Blagdon Lake lies in a valley bordering the northern edge of the Mendip Hills.  It was created by the Bristol Waterworks Company between 1898 and 1905 when the River Yeo, which rises in the village of Compton Martin one and a half miles to the southeast, was dammed.  Originally named the Yeo Reservoir, the lake is overlooked by the village of Blagdon from which it now takes its name.

To enjoy a peaceful walk on the public footpath along the lakeshore it is best to park on the road over the dam.  There is a car park near the fire station in the village of Blagdon but, as the village is on foothills of the Mendips, it is a very testing walk back up the steep road from the lake.  The footpath on the lakeshore is level going and there are benches on which to take a rest or just sit and enjoy the view.

Blagdon Lake in the autumn, viewed from the south.

St Andrew's Church overlooks the lake.  The tower is one of the tallest in Somerset and dates from the 15th century.  The remainder of the church was rebuilt between 1907 and 1909 by Lord Winterstoke, of the Wills tobacco family, who lived nearby at Coombe Lodge on the western outskirts of Blagdon.


St. Andrew's Church, Blagdon overlooking the lake.                  
 

For a view which takes in Blagdon Lake, Village and Church turn off the A368 up the hill next to the Seymour Arms.  Proceed up the hill, the road is steep, narrow and twisting so take care, and keep a lookout for the small car park and picnic area on the left.  Once you have spent time enjoying the scenery drive on up the hill and join the B3134 for a spin on the Mendip Hills.