Top 6 Lakes around Lanner
Best lakes around Lanner offer diverse natural features and recreational opportunities within Cornwall. The region is characterized by its rich mining history and varied landscapes, from moorland to coastal areas. Several notable lakes are located within a reasonable distance, providing settings for watersports, wildlife observation, and tranquil walks. These natural features contribute to the area's appeal for outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Lanner
- The most popular lakes is Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool, a viewpoint that features a…
Last updated: October 31, 2026
Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool
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Basset's Cove
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Stithians Reservoir Dam
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Ralph's Cupboard
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
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Falmouth Harbour
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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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Lovely town with lots happening. plenty of places to grab mid ride fuel or snacks for on the road
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The favourable position of the natural harbour between Falmouth Bay and the long stretched out bay of Carrick Roads as an anchorage made the small town of Falmouth the most important port in the British Isles alongside London during the sailing ship era.
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Great view from the dam across the reservoir towards Carn Menellis
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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 are the best lakes for watersports near Lanner?
For watersports, Stithians Lake (also known as Stithians Reservoir) is a prime destination. Located about a fifteen-minute drive from Lanner, it's one of Cornwall's largest reservoirs and a hub for activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, and eFoiling, facilitated by the Stithians Lake Watersports Centre. You can also see the impressive Stithians Reservoir Dam there.
Which lakes near Lanner are good for wildlife watching?
Colliford Lake, Cornwall's largest inland body of water, is excellent for wildlife watching. Situated in the heart of Bodmin Moor, it's a National Landscape known for diverse birdlife, including kingfishers, wagtails, goldeneye, golden plover, lapwing, snipe, Great Crested Grebes, swifts, swallows, and martins.
Are there any family-friendly lakes or parks near Lanner?
Yes, Siblyback Lake on Bodmin Moor offers excellent children's facilities and a café, making it ideal for a family afternoon. Additionally, Tehidy Country Park, the largest woodland in West Cornwall, features a lake, over 9 miles of paths, and a café with a picnic area, providing a great family day out where dogs are also welcome.
Where can I find easy walking trails around lakes near Lanner?
Both Stithians Lake and Siblyback Lake offer accessible and enjoyable walks. Stithians has a wonderful 5-mile circular walk, while Siblyback features a 5km circular walk. For hiking routes around the area, you can explore options like the "Carn Marth Quarry Pool – View of Carn Brea loop from Lanner" which is an easy 4.8 km route. Find more hiking trails in the area on the Hiking around Lanner guide.
What historical features can be found near the lakes around Lanner?
The area around Lanner is rich in mining and quarrying history. Hick's Quarry Pool, located near the top of Carn Marth, is a former granite quarry that is now flooded. This site, along with Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool, reflects the region's industrial past. The Stithians Reservoir Dam itself is a man-made monument dating back to 1962, showcasing engineering history.
Are there opportunities for stargazing near Lanner's lakes?
Yes, Siblyback Lake is well-regarded for stargazing, offering a beautiful and dark setting against the striking backdrop of Cornwall's Bodmin Moor.
Can I go fishing at any of the lakes near Lanner?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at both Stithians Lake, where anglers often seek rainbow trout, and Colliford Lake, where fishing is permitted with a permit.
What are some scenic viewpoints near the lakes around Lanner?
The top of Carn Marth, at 755 feet (230 m), offers incredible views over the rural countryside of inland Cornwall, including the nearby Hick's Quarry Pool. The Stithians Reservoir Dam also provides great views across the reservoir towards Carn Menellis.
Are there any cafes or picnic areas near the lakes?
Yes, several lakes offer amenities. Stithians Lake has a café overlooking the water. Colliford Lake provides ample car parking and lovely picnic areas. Siblyback Lake features a café serving artisan coffee and homemade food. Tehidy Country Park also has a café with a picnic area.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Lanner?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural features and recreational opportunities. Many enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty, whether it's for watersports at Stithians, wildlife spotting at Colliford, or peaceful walks. The area's rich mining history, visible at sites like Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool, also adds to the appeal.
Are there running trails near the lakes around Lanner?
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity. For example, the "Carn Marth Viewpoint – Carn Marth Quarry Pool loop from Lanner" is a moderate 11.5 km route. You can find more running options in the Running Trails around Lanner guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Lanner?
While specific seasonal advice isn't detailed for all lakes, the region's natural beauty can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for watersports and picnics, while autumn offers beautiful foliage for walks. Winter hiking is also possible, with many trails remaining accessible.
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