Top 5 Lakes around St. Ives
Lakes around St. Ives, Cornwall, UK, are characterized by their coastal proximity and diverse aquatic environments. This region, known for its mild climate, features a mix of natural estuaries, bays, and smaller ponds. The area offers opportunities for observing wildlife and enjoying scenic water views. Its unique blend of maritime and freshwater features makes it a distinctive destination for outdoor exploration.
Best lakes around St. Ives
- The most popular lakes is St Ives Harbour, a settlement that serves as a picturesque fishing harbour and seaside town. It is a notable landmark on the Cornish coastline, offering cobbled streets, independent shops, and traditional eateries.
- Another must-see spot is Penzance Seafront and Harbour, a settlement with facilities and a beach. Visitors can expect a coastal resort with a mild climate, lush vegetation, and a promenade.
- Visitors also love St Ives Bay, a large and crescent-shaped bay. It stretches 10 km and is a good place for birdwatching, with the River Hayle flowing into it via a broad tidal estuary.
- St. Ives is known for its estuaries, bays, and smaller ponds. The region offers a variety of water bodies to see and explore, from coastal features to inland natural reserves.
- The lakes around St. Ives are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 360 upvotes and 190 photos contributed by visitors.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
St Ives Harbour
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Penzance Seafront and Harbour
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St Ives Bay
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Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve
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Each year around 18000 birds migrate to the estuary and the RSPB are helping to ensure this area is protected for their use.
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Pond in Lariggan Gardens
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Tips from the Community
Lariggan Gardens in Penzance is a smaller, charming green space just off the promenade, offering a peaceful retreat overlooking Mount's Bay. Less well known than larger parks such as Morrab Gardens, Lariggan Gardens offers a picturesque setting for strolling and relaxing. Lariggan Gardens is a hidden gem in Penzance and a popular spot for locals.
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There is a ferry from the harbor to the Scilly Islands, which are a must-see. Otherwise there is a nice promenade.
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For me, St. Ives is one of the most idyllic places on Cornwall's coast. Here you will not only find shops, pubs and nice cafés, but also many small art galleries.
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Very easy to reach by train. Nice place
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St Ives should be avoided during English school holidays - unless you like crowded Mallorca. Unfortunately, it wasn't tranquil there. But the walk around St Ives towards Zennor is gorgeous.
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Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve is managed by the RSPB and is the most westerly estuary in the country. The warm climate means it doesn't freeze over so it is a place of great safety during harsh winters. Each year around 18000 birds migrate to the estuary and the RSPB are helping to ensure this area is protected for their use.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of 'lakes' can I explore around St. Ives, Cornwall?
The St. Ives area is unique for its blend of coastal and freshwater features. You'll find picturesque fishing harbours like St Ives Harbour, expansive bays such as St Ives Bay, and significant estuaries like the Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve. There are also smaller ponds, like the one in Lariggan Gardens, and dedicated fishing lakes like Bussow Reservoir and Nance Lakes a short distance away.
Are there any good spots for birdwatching near the lakes?
Yes, the Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve is an excellent location for birdwatching. It's the most westerly estuary in the country and a crucial site for migrating birds, with around 18,000 birds visiting annually. Its warm climate means it doesn't freeze over, providing a safe haven during harsh winters.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around the lakes?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and exploring coastal paths, with options ranging from moderate to difficult. Cycling is also popular, with both road cycling and mountain biking routes available. For more details on routes, you can check out guides like MTB Trails around St. Ives, Road Cycling Routes around St. Ives, and Running Trails around St. Ives.
Are there family-friendly 'lakes' or water areas to visit?
Absolutely. Many of the coastal features are family-friendly, including St Ives Harbour with its beaches and shops, Penzance Seafront and Harbour, and the expansive St Ives Bay which is great for swimming. The Pond in Lariggan Gardens also offers a peaceful, family-friendly retreat.
Where can I go fishing near St. Ives?
For dedicated fishing, Bussow Reservoir, located close to St. Ives, is a peaceful 7-acre coarse fishery stocked with mirror and common carp up to 32 lbs, as well as rudd, roach, and bream. Nance Lakes, just 3 miles from St. Ives, also offers three fishing lakes with Carp, Tench, Bream, and Crucian Carp, and even has camping facilities.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around St. Ives?
Thanks to the influence of the Gulf Stream, the St. Ives area enjoys a mild climate with much sunshine, making it pleasant for visits throughout the year. The Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve, for instance, is particularly notable in winter as it doesn't freeze, attracting many overwintering birds.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks near the water?
Yes, St Ives Harbour itself is a historic fishing harbour with distinctive cobbled streets and traditional eateries. Penzance Seafront and Harbour also has a rich history, influenced by its role as a railway terminus since 1866. While not directly in the guide data, the Godmanchester Nature Reserve in Cambridgeshire (a different St. Ives) is noted for its Roman heritage, including Roman Lake.
What do visitors enjoy most about the St. Ives water areas?
Visitors frequently praise the picturesque scenery, the charming atmosphere of places like St Ives Harbour with its independent shops and traditional eateries, and the natural beauty of St Ives Bay. The mild climate and lush vegetation, especially around Penzance Seafront, are also highly appreciated.
Can I find places to eat and drink near the water in St. Ives?
Definitely. St Ives Harbour is lined with restaurants, traditional pubs, take-aways, and cafes, offering a variety of dining options. Penzance Seafront and Harbour also boasts numerous shops, bars, and restaurants for visitors to enjoy.
Are there any swimming spots in the St. Ives area?
Yes, St Ives Bay is a large, crescent-shaped bay known as a good swim spot, particularly popular with surfers. Its beaches offer opportunities for enjoying the water.
What are some notable natural features or viewpoints around the lakes?
Beyond the water bodies themselves, you can find stunning viewpoints such as those overlooking St Ives Harbour and Penzance Seafront. St Ives Bay offers expansive views of the coastline, and the Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve provides scenic natural vistas, especially for birdwatching.
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