A £1m natural and social heritage centre has opened at Wistlandpound in North Devon.

The new attraction comprises a 2km all-ability discovery trail – a first for the region – around part of Wistlandpound reservoir as well as a fully accessible discovery centre, converted from a listed linhay barn, to help educate people of all ages and abilities about the estate’s social, historical and environmental importance.

Bird hides and sensory structures placed along the trail – designed by specialist heritage consultancy Imagemakers – are aimed at visitors with a visual impairment and to provide meeting points.

There is also a 2km challenge trail, with the UK’s first exercise trail for wheelchair users.

“The Wistlandpound reservoir is a beautiful place to explore with a multitude of wildlife and this new all-ability discovery trail will enable even more people to enjoy it, irrespective of how mobile they are,” said Tom Haynes, site manager and ranger.

Calvert Trust Exmoor, Forestry Commission England and South West Lakes Trust developed the two-year project, with funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (£325,000), Sport England, Esmee Fairburn Foundation, Bradbury Trust, Devon Renaissance and EBM Charitable Trust.

Photograph: Great Britain wheelchair marathon athlete Sarah Piercey officially opened the new centre with Tom Haynes