Best lakes around Menheniot are found in the surrounding area of Cornwall, which features notable water-based attractions and reservoirs. The region, particularly near Bodmin Moor, offers diverse aquatic environments. These include man-made reservoirs and natural water features within ancient woodlands. The landscape provides opportunities for various outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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Siblyback Lake is a reservoir on the edge of Bodmin Moor. The dam blocks a small tributary of the River Fowey.
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On the shore of Siblyback Lake sits Olive & Co. Open for breakfast and lunch it also serves teas, coffees and cakes, including vegan and gluten free options. Watching over the calm waters of the reservoir, sitting and enjoying a brew or something to eat makes a lovely end to a run.
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The dam was built in 1968 to create the reservoir which provides drinking water and tops up the water levels of the River Fowey during the dry months. Once a small tributary of the River Fowey, Siblyback Lake now holds 3 billion litres of water.
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The dam was built in 1968 to create this reservoir which provides drinking water and tops up the water levels of the River Fowey during the dry months. Once a small tributary of the River Fowey, the lake now holds 3 billion litres of water.
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Sand Acre Bay is a part of the Churchtown Farm Nature Reserve, and provides fantastic open views over the Tamar Estuary. From here, looking south, you should be able to spot HMS Brecon, a former Navy vessel, now static off Jupiter Point, and involved in training.
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The dam was built in 1968 to create this reservoir which provides drinking water and tops up the water levels of the River Fowey during the dry months. Once a small tributary of the River Fowey, the lake now holds 3 billion litres of water.
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Great selection of vegan friendly options here. My partner is lactose intolerant and it's great to have more options than a paltry bland flapjack available.
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While Menheniot itself doesn't have major natural lakes, the surrounding area of Cornwall offers diverse water-based attractions. You'll find man-made reservoirs like Siblyback Lake, which is popular for various activities, and stunning natural features such as Golitha Falls, a series of cascades along the River Fowey. There are also unique spots like Goldiggins Quarry, a deep quarry known for wild swimming.
Yes, Siblyback Lake is particularly family-friendly. It features a children's play area, ample open space for picnics, and a café overlooking the water. The Sibleyback Reservoir Circular Trail is also suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, making it accessible for families with young children.
Siblyback Lake offers a 5km (3.2-mile) circular trail that is ideal for walking, running, and cycling. This traffic-free gravel track is suitable for adaptive cycles, wheelchairs, and pushchairs, and passes by the Siblyback Dam and through woodlands. For a different experience, Golitha Falls has two main trails: a shorter, flatter red riverside loop and a longer, more challenging yellow trail leading to larger falls through ancient oak woodland.
Yes, Goldiggins Quarry is a popular and unique spot for wild swimming. It's a deep quarry where you can enter from flat stones or, for the brave, jump from the cliffs. Remember to bring your swimming gear and a picnic to make the most of your visit.
Beyond walking and swimming, Siblyback Lake is excellent for watersports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, with equipment hire available. It's also a popular spot for fishing, regularly stocked with trout. For more structured activities, you can explore various routes for running, hiking, and road cycling in the wider area. Check out the Running Trails around Menheniot, Easy hikes around Menheniot, or Road Cycling Routes around Menheniot guides for specific routes.
Siblyback Lake is generally dog-friendly, especially for walks around the 5km circular trail. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially around wildlife and other visitors, and to check specific signage for any restrictions, particularly in sensitive areas or during certain seasons.
Yes, at Siblyback Lake, you'll find Olive & Co Café right on the shore. It's open for breakfast and lunch, serving teas, coffees, and cakes, including vegan and gluten-free options. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy the views after a walk or activity.
Golitha Falls is beautiful year-round, but it's particularly spectacular after heavy rainfall when the waterfalls are most torrential. Spring is also a lovely time to visit, as the ancient oak woodland of Draynes Wood is known for its diverse mosses, lichens, and wildflowers, including bluebells.
Yes, Siblyback Lake offers a campsite with both electric and non-electric pitches, providing modern facilities. It's also part of an International Dark Sky Landscape, making it an excellent spot for stargazing.
Siblyback Lake is situated on the edge of Bodmin Moor, which is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). This designation recognizes its striking scenery, diverse habitats, and rich cultural heritage. The lake itself contributes to this beauty, offering tranquil waters surrounded by moorland landscapes.
The Siblyback Dam is a significant structure built in 1968 to create the Siblyback Reservoir. This dam is crucial for providing drinking water and maintaining water levels in the River Fowey. While not ancient, it's an important part of the region's infrastructure and history.
The Sibleyback Reservoir Circular Trail is designed to be highly accessible. It's a traffic-free gravel track suitable for pedestrians, cyclists, adaptive cycles, wheelchairs, and pushchairs, making it a great option for visitors with varying mobility needs.


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