Dartmoor is full of incredible history and spooky tales. One fascinating story is that of Red Lake, which you might have visited many times throughout the years.
But you may not know of the lake's fascinating history, connected to the pool of water and giant clay mound that dominates this incredible stretch of moorland.
Red Lake can be found on the most remote stretch of the southern moor, but the man-made 'lake' is now a popular spot for dedicated walkers who dare to make the challenging trek from Ivybridge or Princetown.
The site was previously nothing more than a stretch of moorland separated by several streams that ran quietly through the peaceful spot. More recently, however, Red Lake was engulfed by a bustling working community starkly contrasting the eerie quietness that hangs in the air there today.
Delving into this fascinating part of Dartmoor's history can be significantly different from the exploration of neighbouring sites. Less mythological creatures, spooky disappearances or creepy monsters - or so we think. Strap in for the incredible story of Red Lake's incredible formation.
Red Lake - the unique landscape found in the depths of the national park
Surprisingly, the lake itself is a modern feature. The name of Red Lake (or Reed Lake) would have derived from the streams that flow through the area and not in reference to the artificial pools of water which can now be found at the location.
In the early 1900s, this secluded spot of Dartmoor would have been a shockingly busy site. Used as a mining site, it is thought that over 100 people would be involved in the extraction of clay from the ground. Walking through the desolate landscape of the moors today, you may be surprised to stumble across an old tramway line.
Connecting Bittaford to Redlake, this impressive piece of local history was originally built in 1911 and was used to carry supplies and workers between the village to the clay works. Running a staggering eight miles long, the remains of the tramway can still be found leading all the way to the 'lakes'.
This is often used by Dartmoor ramblers as a guided route to the isolated location and is lined at various points with marker posts, disused quarries and earthworks.
History of the abandoned tramway
Three locomotives used to run the tramway. C.A.Hanson was the first, named after the clay works owner. The second and third vehicles to use the line were also given names: Dartmoor and Lady-Mallaby Deeley. These locomotives would have been extremely useful in transporting workers and supplies to and from this desolate spot.
As the clay was drawn from the ground deep ground pits and a high spoil tip began to form. The site had fallen into disuse by 1933 and the frantic site that was once a hub of industrial action became quiet and still once more. The cost of building the extravagant tramway could be seen as a clear reason for this.
The abandoned clay pit's later filled with rainwater, creating the man-made lake. The spoil tip stands tall against the Dartmoor backdrop looking much like a miniature volcano. There are still several tell tale signs of the previous industrial flare of this now desolate site.
For example, the remains of a demolished pumphouse stands by the side of Red Lake pool. Today the spot is a must-see for interested Dartmoor ramblers and avid wild swimmers.
Although there has been some speculation that the water at Red Lake is contaminated with arsenic there are signs of life within the pool. Looking into the safety of using this site as a spot for wild swimming however, advice online seems to be pretty standard - evaluate the water's safety, be aware of currents, take a friend.
Red Lake stands as a stark reminder of times gone by and its eerie stillness is perhaps what draws in so many intrigued hikers each year.
