Top 9 Lakes around Stithians
Best lakes around Stithians are characterized by a blend of natural beauty and historical significance within Cornwall's landscape. The region is home to Stithians Lake, a prominent reservoir known for its expansive waters and diverse activities. This area offers opportunities for watersports, walking, and wildlife observation. The lakes provide a setting for outdoor exploration amidst picturesque farmland and moorland.
Best lakes around Stithians
- The most popular lakes is Swanpool Beach and Nature Reserve, a lake that is a mix…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool
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Basset's Cove
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Swanpool Beach and Nature Reserve
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Portreath Harbour and Beach
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Stithians Reservoir Dam
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Tips from the Community
Breathtaking views. Especially when combined with the blooming heather!
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Worth climb to the cairn for the downhill section on the main access road. Then drop into single track round the back lanes of Carharrack. Sweet! :)
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Great view from the dam across the reservoir towards Carn Menellis
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Swanpool beach is a sandy cove on the outskirts of Falmouth. Behind the beach is Swanpool Nature Reserve (SSSI), a mix of fresh and sea water that is home to over 100 species of bird. There is a cafe, crazy golf and watersports hire available at the beach.
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Portreath is a a small coastal village with a very narrow harbour and sandy beach. Rather than fish, this port was used to import Welsh coal and export copper. The original loading ramp can still be seen and given the narrowness of the harbour, navigating it must have been very difficult and dangerous. There are several cafes and shops in Portreath if you are in need of refuelling and/or rehydrating.
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The 7.3 km long circular route takes you back to a time when Cornwall was covered by sea and then became a Europe-wide mountain range. The sedimentary rocks of this area around Portreath were deposited in a deep marine environment during the Devonian age (ca. 393 - 373 million years): Greywacken: Gray rock with fine to coarse grains (0.3 - 2 mm; 0.01 - 0.08 inch), consisting of quartz, feldspars and fragments of foreign rocks. In some cases, shiny/shimmering components can be seen (mica), the rocks form layers and banks. Siltstones: Light gray rock with fine grains (<0.063 mm; <0.002 inch) that are not visible to the naked eye. Layers can be recognized based on the color difference. Slate: Gray to black, sometimes slightly red to greenish colored rocks with very fine grains (<0.02 mm, <0.001 inch), the rocks appear foliated with very thin layers, often alternating with greywackes. The originally horizontal sedimentary layers of Cornwall were tectonically overprinted around 323 - 299 million years ago during the Variscan orogeny (mountain formation). During this time, the southern major continent Gondwana collided with the northern major continents Laurentia and Baltica as well as smaller continent fragments (terranes) such as Avalonia and Amorica. The orogeny ended approximately 270 million years ago with the formation of the supercontinent Pangea. Due to the pressure from the south, the sedimentary rocks were compressed, folded and internally transformed under increasing temperatures. This is how slates emerged from the original claystones. There are no deposits in the area for the period between the formation of the Devonian rocks until 3 million years ago. During the Ice Age 3 million years ago, the region of modern-day Cornwall lay in a tundra area south of the glaciers that covered the Northern Hemisphere. Periglacial deposits from this period can be observed on the cliffs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around the lakes near Stithians?
The Stithians area offers a diverse range of outdoor activities. Stithians Lake is a hub for watersports like windsurfing, sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing, with equipment hire and instructor-led sessions available. It's also a popular spot for trout fishing. For land-based activities, there are extensive walking and cycling routes, including a nearly five-mile circular path around Stithians Lake. You can also find mountain biking trails and road cycling routes in the wider area. For example, explore the MTB Trails around Stithians or the Road Cycling Routes around Stithians.
Are there good walking or hiking trails around Stithians Lake?
Yes, Stithians Lake features a popular circular route of nearly five miles (or 10 kilometers) that traverses meadows, wet woodland, and heathland, offering continuous views of the lake. Public footpaths and a cycleway also run along the northern shore. The terrain is generally accessible, and the walk is considered suitable for families and dog walkers. For more options, you can explore Cycling around Stithians, which includes routes around the reservoir.
Which lakes near Stithians are suitable for families?
Several spots are great for families. Stithians Lake itself is very family-friendly, featuring a children's play area with a pirate-themed climbing boulder, a lakeside campsite, and facilities for various watersports. Swanpool Beach and Nature Reserve and Swanpool Beach are also excellent choices, offering a sandy cove, watersports hire, crazy golf, and a nature reserve for birdwatching.
What wildlife can I expect to see at Stithians Lake?
Stithians Lake and its surrounding countryside are rich in wildlife, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts. Birdwatchers can utilize three bird hides to spot various species, including occasional rarities like Osprey. Designated nature reserves are located at the southern end and near the northern causeway, providing habitats for a diverse range of birds and other local fauna.
Are there accessible options for visitors with mobility challenges at Stithians Lake?
Yes, Stithians Lake is committed to accessibility. They offer facilities such as Wheelyboats and RYA Sailability sessions, which provide less-able visitors and wheelchair users with independent access to the water, ensuring everyone can enjoy the lake's activities.
Where can I find a cafe or refreshments near Stithians Lake?
At Stithians Lake, you can visit the Wild Vibes Cafe, which overlooks the lake and offers meals, coffee, and cakes. Additionally, the nearby Swanpool Beach and Nature Reserve also has a cafe right on the beach.
What is the historical significance of the lakes in the Stithians area?
The most prominent lake, Stithians Lake, is actually Stithians Reservoir, constructed in 1967 primarily as a water supply. The wider area, particularly around Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool, has a rich history of mining and quarrying. Carn Marth offers views over a landscape littered with disused mining works, and Hick's Quarry Pool is a flooded former granite quarry, showcasing the region's industrial past.
Are there any good viewpoints around the lakes near Stithians?
Absolutely. Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool offers incredible views over the rural countryside of inland Cornwall from its 755-foot (230 m) summit. Additionally, Basset's Cove provides breathtaking coastal views, especially when combined with blooming heather, and Swanpool Beach is also noted as a family-friendly viewpoint.
What is the best time of year to visit Stithians Lake?
The best time to visit Stithians Lake largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer ideal conditions for watersports, walking, and enjoying the cafe, with longer daylight hours and warmer weather. Autumn provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours. The lake is known as one of the windiest inland waters in England, making it particularly popular for windsurfing and sailing year-round, weather permitting.
Can I camp near Stithians Lake?
Yes, Stithians Lake features a lakeside campsite with pitches and glamping options. The site provides modern showers and facilities, making it a convenient and enjoyable option for those looking to stay overnight and fully experience the area's outdoor offerings.
Is there parking available at Stithians Lake?
Yes, parking facilities are available at Stithians Lake, making it convenient for visitors to access the activity center, cafe, and walking trails. Specific parking areas are usually well-signposted upon arrival.
Are dogs allowed on the trails around Stithians Lake?
Yes, the circular route around Stithians Lake and many of the public footpaths in the area are dog-friendly, making it a great destination for walks with your canine companion. Please ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near wildlife and livestock.
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