Best lakes around Derwen are found within the Denbighshire region of Wales, characterized by its rural landscape and proximity to significant water bodies. The village itself is associated with Llyn Derwen Coarse Fishery, while the wider area features large reservoirs and smaller forest lakes. This area offers diverse aquatic environments, from managed fisheries to expansive reservoirs.
Last updated: August 23, 2026
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Though it was not a tough or technical ride, it did take me into territory I had never visited before and was a lovely antidote to the 'fleshpots' of Gwydir Forest or Coed-y-Brenin. Some lovely gentle singletrack, beautiful views and I didn't see another rider for the whole trip - although tbh I did set off at 08.30 on a Wednesday!!
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Llyn Brenig is a reservoir located on Denbigh Moors in North Wales. The artificial lake, which was constructed between 1973 and 1976, was created by building an embankment dam across the Afon Brenig valley. It lies at 1,200 ft (370 m) above sea level on the border between the counties of Conwy and Denbighshire. It is used to manage the flow in the River Dee as part of the River Dee regulation system.
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Llyn Gweryd, home to more than 2000 Carp in the Heart of North Wales above the snow line. Stocked 35 yrs ago with Commons, Mirrors and Ghosties
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Llyn Brenig is a reservoir located on Denbigh Moors in North Wales. The artificial lake, which was constructed between 1973 and 1976, was created by building an embankment dam across the Afon Brenig valley. It lies at 1,200 ft above sea level on the border between the counties of Conwy and Denbighshire.
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A long and winding doubletrack gravel road that flanks the eastern shore of Llyn Brenig. It's a little rough in places so best on a gravel bike, sturdy hybrid or mountain bike rather than a pure road bike. Enjoy the views as you meander around the little inlets and see what wildlife you can see across the water.
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Views from the B4501 road across Llyn Brenig and down across southern Bala and southern Snowdonia towards Cadair Idris.
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You can find some glorious views here on the edge of Llyn Brenig. Llyn is Welsh for lake. The dam is fairly recent; it was begun in 1973 and finished in 1976. It maintains the flow of water to the River Dee, not to be confused with the river of the same name in Aberdeenshire. The water supplied by this reservoir feeds into North-East Wales and North-West England, including the Liverpool area.
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While Derwen village is directly associated with Llyn Derwen Coarse Fishery, the wider Denbighshire region offers other significant lakes. These include the expansive Llyn Brenig, known for its glorious views and recreational activities, and the more remote Bod Petryal Lake within the Clocaenog Forest.
Yes, several lakes cater to families. Llyn Derwen Coarse Fishery has a dedicated 'Pleasure Pool' designed for easier fishing, making it ideal for introducing new anglers. Llyn Brenig is also considered family-friendly, offering cycle routes and a visitor center. Additionally, Llyn Gweryd is noted as a family-friendly lake.
The lakes around Derwen offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy gravel biking, running, and mountain biking on trails near these lakes. For example, there are several cycle trails around Llyn Brenig, including the 'Two Lakes cycle trail' and 'Brenig cycle trail'. You can find more details on these activities in the Gravel biking around Derwen, Running Trails around Derwen, and MTB Trails around Derwen guides.
Yes, there are excellent walking and hiking opportunities. The Llyn Brenig — East Shore Gravel Track offers a long, winding path with views and wildlife spotting. Bod Petryal Lake, nestled in Clocaenog Forest, provides woodland trails. While specific 'easy' or 'beginner' lake walks are not detailed, the gravel tracks and forest paths generally offer accessible options for various skill levels.
Absolutely. Llyn Derwen Coarse Fishery is a renowned spot for fishing, featuring a Carp Pool for specimen angling and a Pleasure Pool for general coarse fishing. It's stocked with diverse species including carp, perch, roach, bream, chub, and various types of trout. Llyn Gweryd is also home to over 2000 carp.
The lakes and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. At Llyn Brenig and its East Shore Gravel Track, you can observe various species across the water. Bod Petryal Lake, located within Clocaenog Forest, is known for opportunities to spot rare creatures such as red squirrels and black grouse.
Yes, the area features significant engineering feats. The Alwen Dam, completed in 1920, is a grand, ornate stone structure that provides drinking water for Liverpool and the Wirral. Llyn Brenig itself is a large reservoir constructed between 1973 and 1976, and it also features an archaeological trail with Bronze Age cairns.
While specific parking details for every lake are not provided, popular destinations like Llyn Derwen Coarse Fishery and Llyn Brenig (which has a visitor center) typically offer parking facilities for visitors. It's advisable to check individual lake websites for precise parking information before your visit.
Visitors particularly appreciate the glorious views, especially from viewpoints like Llyn Brenig. The peaceful and picturesque setting of places like Llyn Derwen Coarse Fishery is also highly valued. Many enjoy the diverse outdoor activities, from cycling on gentle singletrack to exploring magnificent feats of engineering like the Alwen Dam.
Llyn Derwen Coarse Fishery provides male and female toilets on-site. Llyn Brenig also has a visitor center, which typically includes facilities and often a cafe. For other lakes, it's best to check their specific amenities before your trip.
While specific accessibility details for all lakes are not available, Llyn Brenig is generally considered family-friendly and may offer some accessible paths, particularly around its visitor center. For detailed information on wheelchair accessibility, it is recommended to contact the specific lake's management or visitor center directly.


Still not found your perfect lake around Derwen? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.