Of great significance is the Town's ‘Historic Plaque Trail'.   The Trail follows fourteen blue plaques identifying buildings and sites of special interest.   Leaflets available in the Tourist Information Centre.

Chard Reservoir

Chard Reservoir is on the north east fringe of the Town with easy access along Oaklands Avenue.   This beautiful stretch of open water stands amidst attractive woodlands and is within walking distance of the town centre.   There is a car park nearby in Oaklands Road along with an access route suitable for the less able and wheelchair users; this route is best is approached along Oaklands Avnue.

This nature reserve was formed from a reservoir that was built in 1842 to provide water for the former Chard Canal.  The beautiful stretch of water was acquired by South Somerset District Council in 1990 and designated a nature reserve.  It is an important wildlife habitat.  Some original features can be seen from the circular walk together with excellent views across open water.  The Reservoir provides an exciting opportunity to observe local wildlife. Over 150 species of bird have been recorded. It is well known as a nesting site for the Great Crested Grebe. The reed beds are home to various species of Warbler and provide sheltered nesting sites for Mallard, Moorhen and Coot.

A marked walk of about 2 miles takes in the western edge of the reservoir. However a small section may be closed from 1^st March to 1^st July to prevent nesting birds from being disturbed.  

 http://www.southsomerset.gov.uk/environment/countryside/country-parks-and-spaces/chard-reservoir

Fishing at Chard Reservoir 

Fishing rights are owned by South Somerset District Council and controlled in conjunction with Chard and District Angling Club.
Day Permits available on the bank.
Memberships available from Barrons Tel:01460 63593

Also available Health Walks in South Somerset "Step out for health" or
Download walks at:   

West of Chard you will find the Blackdown Hills  Thia area of Outstanding Natural Beauty provides many pretty walks with far reaching views across Devon and Somerset.  On a clear day, from the Windwhistle ridge east of Chard, one can see both coastlines, the Bristol Channel in the North and Lyme Bay in Dorset to the South.

Download for Free "Heritage  and the Hills" -  A great car free day out starting from Chard and following on to explore the beautiful undiscovered Blackdown Hills.

http://www.visitsomerset.co.uk/site/inspire-me/car-free-days-out/heritage-and-the-hills

The South Somerset Cycle Route meanders through traditional villages and open country lanes.   As part of the National Cycle Network, the recently opened Chard to Ilminster route enables cyclists and walkers to use approximately 3 miles off road from Stringfellow Park in Chard, alongside the village of Donyatt and Herne Hill, to Ilminster Town Centre.   Available to download - click on the link .www.sustrans.org.uk/sustrans-near-you/south-west/easy-rides-in-the-south-west/chard-to-ilminster

Walk or Cycle The Stop Line Way - Ilminster to Chard (5-mile long metalled section) and discover hidden Somerset, past and present. Leaflets are available  in Chard Tourist Information Centre or download from this link www.visitsomerset.co.uk/site/get-active/stop-line-way