Top 5 Lakes around Chidlow
Best lakes around Chidlow are primarily centered around the Perth Hills region, approximately 45 minutes east of Perth. The area is known for its scenic bushland and recreational water bodies. Lake Leschenaultia is a notable man-made former railway dam covering 168 hectares, offering diverse outdoor activities. This location provides a natural landscape for visitors seeking water-based recreation and walking trails.
Best lakes around Chidlow
- The most popular lakes is Hanmer Mere, a natural monument that is a natural lake…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Hanmer Mere
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Big Mere Lake
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Brown Moss Pond
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Alderford Lake
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Alderford Lake Café
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Tips from the Community
Hanmer Mere (Welsh: Llyn Hanmer) is a natural lake and a site of Special Scientific Interest in Wrexham County Borough, Wales. The village of Hanmer is at the northern end of the lake. The lake is 18 hectares (44 acres) in extent.
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Hanmer is home to one of the nine Meres in this part of the world and it is a beautiful tranquil place. Having the bulk of St Chad's church looking down over the whole scene just adds to the ambience of the whole place.
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Alderford lake is a beautiful location but it is a private lake with various fees associated with such venues. However it is a nice location and there is a cafe on site. It's a nice place for a break in a nice setting.
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Great location for water activities (e.g. wild swimming 🏊🏼, aquapark, Stand Up Paddleboarding, kayak 🚣♀️..) and other adventures like 'Escape Island'. Furthermore, they also have a restaurant / café from which you have a view of the lake. Further info about their many fun activities as well as opening hours and prices can be found on https://alderford.com
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Handy place to stop if you want a nice quite spot by a lake. There's also a small store on the corner if you want to buy a snack or drink.
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With a lot of pleasure I stopped by and sat on a bench admiring the beauty of the Mere.
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The 'moss' in Brown Moss actually refers to a peat bog rather than any particularly mossy nature. This reserve is teeming with wildlife from insects to birds and has several walking trails criss-crossing its modest expanse. Largely a marsh and wetland area, some of the residents here include great-crested newts, dragonflies and frogs. This is one of the country's most important reserves for plant species too, so come with keen eyes, ready to spot unusual flora.
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Located on the edge of Marbury village, Big Mere is a pretty stretch of water home to diverse wildlife. Here, you will find bird species from Goosander to Egret as well as many fish. The lake is a designated Site of Specific Scientific Interest and popular place to fish. St Michael's Church stands on the edge of the lake, adding to the picturesque setting. The lake is a lovely place for a picnic.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What activities can I do at Lake Leschenaultia?
Lake Leschenaultia offers a wide array of activities. You can enjoy swimming and paddling from its white sandy beaches, hire canoes or stand-up paddleboards, or jump from the lake pontoon. On land, there's a flat 3-kilometer walk trail (Heron Trail), a 12-kilometer mountain biking network, and an orienteering course. The lake is also a great spot for picnics and barbecues.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Chidlow?
Yes, several lakes around Chidlow are great for families. Hanmer Mere, Big Mere Lake, and Brown Moss Pond are all noted as family-friendly. Lake Leschenaultia, with its beaches, water activities, and picnic facilities, is also a highly recommended family destination.
What kind of walking trails can I find near the lakes?
Around Lake Leschenaultia, you'll find the gentle 3-kilometer Heron Trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Brown Moss Pond, a peat bog reserve, also features several walking trails. For more extensive options, you can explore various hiking routes around Chidlow, including easy to moderate trails like the 'Big Mere – Little Mere loop from Marbury'. Find more hiking options in the Hiking around Chidlow guide or the Easy hikes around Chidlow guide.
Can I go mountain biking near the lakes in Chidlow?
Yes, Lake Leschenaultia features a new 12-kilometer mountain biking network suitable for beginner and intermediate riders, along with a small pump track. For additional mountain biking adventures, check out the MTB Trails around Chidlow guide, which includes routes like the 'Smooth Gravel Descent – Love Lane loop from Chorlton'.
What natural features or wildlife can I expect to see?
The lakes around Chidlow are set in scenic bushland, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting. Lake Leschenaultia is surrounded by native trees and wildflowers, especially vibrant in spring, and is home to various native birds, kangaroos, possums, and echidnas. Big Mere Lake is known for its diverse bird species and fish, while Brown Moss Pond is a peat bog teeming with insects, birds, great-crested newts, dragonflies, and frogs, making it an important reserve for plant species.
Is there camping available at the lakes?
Yes, Lake Leschenaultia offers 23 powered and unpowered campsites suitable for tents and camper trailers. It's an ideal base for exploring the Perth Hills. Group campsite bookings and reservations for shelters and lawn areas can be made through the Perth Hills Mundaring Visitor Centre.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Chidlow?
The lakes are generally enjoyable year-round. Spring is particularly beautiful for seeing wildflowers around Lake Leschenaultia. Warmer months are ideal for water activities like swimming and paddling. The gates at Lake Leschenaultia open early in the morning year-round, allowing for early visits.
Are there cafes or amenities near the lakes?
Lake Leschenaultia has excellent picnic and free barbecue facilities, ample parking, toilets, an outdoor shower, and an on-site café. Alderford Lake also features a restaurant/café with views of the lake, and Alderford Lake Café provides a nice spot for a break.
Is Lake Leschenaultia accessible for everyone?
Entry to Lake Leschenaultia is free and it is easily accessible via the Great Eastern Highway. The 3-kilometer Heron Trail around the lake is flat and gentle, making it suitable for many visitors. The white sandy beaches provide safe access to the water.
What makes Hanmer Mere a notable lake?
Hanmer Mere is a natural lake and a Site of Special Scientific Interest in Wrexham County Borough. It spans 18 hectares and is appreciated by visitors as a quiet spot by the water, perfect for admiring its beauty.
What makes Big Mere Lake special?
Big Mere Lake is a natural monument and a designated Site of Specific Scientific Interest. Located on the edge of Marbury village, it's known for its diverse wildlife, including various bird species and fish. St Michael's Church on its edge adds to the picturesque setting, making it a lovely place for a picnic.
Where can I find information about opening hours for Lake Leschenaultia?
For the most current information on Lake Leschenaultia's opening hours and other details, it's best to check the official website: mundaring.wa.gov.au.
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