Waterleat Walks and Talks 

Waterleat Walks and Talks is a family run business located in Dartmoor, where the power of falling water is transformed into electrical energy. In 1995 Miles and Gail created a micro-hydro system at Old Walls, drawing water from the West Webburn and channelling it along the valley side in a leat before it enters a long, steep pipe and turns turbines before returning to the river. Clean, renewable electricity is generated, which is enough to supply around 80 homes. This energy is exported to the National Grid.

Guided walks around the site are open to any interested group, including schools, colleges and universities. These walks provide many educational benefits and links to various curriculum subjects. Presentations can also be given about the construction and operation of the micro-hydro system, with lots of photographs to show you how the site was developed into what you see today.

• Demand for visits has come from landowners, farmers and homeowners with river frontage who want to see the process of renewable energy generation from waterpower. Many of these people have been enthused by the plant and want to create their own green electricity from water on their land. Interactive models and displays are also available for hands-on learning.

Groups

Waterleat Walks and Talks is not purely an educational site. Any interested group is welcome at Old Walls Hydro. Walks around Old Walls Hydro take between 90 minutes and two hours depending on group size and the number of questions we get asked – wellies or walking boots are recommended. The whole hydro plant is viewed, from water intake to tailrace with information at key points and questions welcomed throughout.

Further Information

Walks cost £50 + VAT (£58.75 in total) per group (maximum 30 children in school parties).

Talks start from £50 + VAT (£58.75 in total) per group, at a location of your choice. Prices will rise if we have to travel a significant distance to reach you.

• Visits can be booked on any day of the week, mornings or afternoons. We are also happy to do evening presentations at your convenience.