Devonport Leat

Devonport Leat was constructed in order to supply water to the growing population of Devonport or Plymouth Dock as it was known then. Nearby Plymouth had refused to supply Devonport with any water despite it having a surplus due to the success of its own Drake’s Leat. The Devonport Leat begins at the West Dart Weir north of Two Bridges and was constructed in the 1790’s with completion in 1802. The part of the leat that still carries water now stops its course near to Burrator Reservoir with most of its water finishing in the reservoir, ironically supplying Plymouth with its drinking water!

Devonport leat as it splits from the West Dart

Devonport leat as it splits from the West Dart

From the Devonport Leat looking to Littaford Tor right and Longaford Tor left

From the Devonport Leat looking to Littaford Tor right and Longaford Tor left

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Devonport Leat as it nears the tunnel by Nun’s Cross Farm, Whiteworks is the building in the distance, the leat has come around the back of there.

Devonport Leat near Older Bridge, in the distance Sheepstor on the left and Leather Tor to the right

Devonport Leat near Older Bridge, in the distance Sheepstor on the left and Leather Tor to the right

Devonport Leat as it tumbles down Raddick Hill and across the aqueduct over the Meavy

Devonport Leat as it tumbles down Raddick Hill and across the aqueduct over the Meavy

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And looking the other way up Raddick Hill

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Sheeps Tor ahead along the Devonport Leat