Decoy Country Park and local nature reserve is a stunning retreat in the heart of Newton Abbot.

Once a clay quarry, Decoy Country Park is easily accessible from Exeter and beyond too, with ample parking (paid). Here you will find public toilets, a visitor information centre with map, and a kiosk selling bird feed and ice creams – a chance to feed yourself while feeding the ducks!

There are multiple trails ranging from the short, simple quarter mile trail around Decoy Lake (suitable for wheelchairs and buggies) to the two-mile trail that takes you further out into the country alongside Decoy Brake before returning to the park in the eastern corner.

This month’s route combines the blue and red trail to make a nearly two-mile route that combines the lake, ponds and the dense foliage surrounding Wolborough Fen.

From the car park go past the visitor kiosk towards Decoy Lake. Turn right to travel around the lake anti-clockwise, past numerous picnic benches alongside. 

As you continue around the lake you’ll see monkey bars and other structures en route for children to burn off excess energy while you can enjoy watching ducks and swans from the wooden platforms tucked away in the bushes.

Once around the lake, a wooden marker post will show the red trail to the right (you can continue around to finish the blue trail if preferred).

The red route has you following a straight path alongside a naturally formed gulley on your left. Follow this path all the way until you reach a wooden gate. Turn left before you go through the gate, heading over the bridge and past a small waterfall.

You’ll feel like a real explorer along this part of the route. Large-leaved plants of different varieties encroach over the path and small ponds line the edges on either side to give a jungle-like feel.

As you return to more familiar woodland you’ll see a marker post guiding you to the left. 

Descend the steps to the tranquility of Magazine Pond, taking its name from the 19th century explosives store – used to supply local quarries with blasting powder – that was situated nearby. Stand on the boardwalk and spot Mallard Ducks, Golden-ringed Dragonflies and Kingfishers if you bide your time.

Wheelchair users and prams can access the Magazine Pond by following this path in reverse.

Continue back towards the car park, skirting around a playing field. There’s plenty of room here for picnics, ball games and general summer fun.