Best lakes around Staunton Coleford are situated on the edge of the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire. This rural area provides access to several notable water bodies. The region's lakes offer opportunities for fishing, walking, and nature observation. Visitors can explore diverse natural landscapes and historical sites.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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This place is definitely worth a visit. It is a beautiful area with seating available and a refreshments van on-site.
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The final mile. You can push hard as its downhill, to get that PB. The last sign (&cow bell ringer) says 200 metres to go. 50m up & a right hand curve, just empty the tank as it's shorter than it appears. Great course, volunteer's, café, setting. Unsure if raining?
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Nice meeting hub while out exploring FOD plenty of picnic benches, cafe and a great walking loop of the pond, both lower and upper sections.
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Nice meeting hub while out exploring FOD plenty of picnic benches, cafe and a great walking loop of the pond, both lower and upper sections.
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Nice steady firetrack climb alongside Mallards Pike. Plenty of single track trails from the main track if you fancy more of a challenge either up or downhill.
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Beautiful route in the Forest of Dean. What is very exciting is the number of children and young people who, no matter what day of the week, spend time in the free trail park after school. Even parking is free. And there is good food there too. Simply different!
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Great place to stop take a break from biking. Benches for snacks and a great snack shop during summer season.
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Visitors frequently enjoy Cannop Ponds and Mallards Pike Lake. Cannop Ponds is appreciated for its peaceful setting and diverse bird life, while Mallards Pike Lake offers a mix of walking, cycling, and adventure activities.
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Cannop Ponds and Mallards Pike Lake are both highly recommended. Mallards Pike has buggy-friendly paths and activities like Go Ape, while Cannop Ponds offers large picnic areas and gentle walks.
Mallards Pike Lake is particularly dog-friendly, featuring a dedicated dog dip area and a cafe. Its trails are suitable for walks with your canine companion.
The lakes offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, and fishing. For more adventurous options, Mallards Pike Lake is adjacent to a Go Ape adventure park. There are also numerous routes for cycling and gravel biking in the wider area, which you can explore in the cycling guide and gravel biking guide.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Staunton Court Fishing Lakes, located just outside Staunton village, are well-stocked with various fish species and cater to both pleasure and competitive fishing. The lower pond at Cannop Ponds is also used for fishing by the Yorkley Angling Club.
Mallards Pike Lake offers buggy-friendly paths around the lake that are also accessible for wheelchairs, making it a great option for visitors with mobility needs.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and picnicking, with lush greenery. Autumn brings beautiful fall foliage, while winter provides a peaceful, tranquil atmosphere for quiet strolls.
Yes, Cannop Ponds have historical significance. They were created in the 1820s to power an ironworks, and the area was once the site of the Severn and Wye Railway, now transformed into a rich wildlife habitat.
The lakes are set within picturesque woodlands and are home to diverse wildlife. At Cannop Ponds, you can spot Mandarin ducks, swans, and dragonflies. Mallards Pike Lake is surrounded by woodlands, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting during your walks.
Yes, parking is generally available. Staunton Court Fishing Lakes offer convenient parking right alongside the water's edge. Cannop Ponds has a car park with a large flat grassed area nearby. Mallards Pike Lake also has parking facilities.
Yes, you can find amenities near some of the lakes. Mallards Pike Lake has a cafe. There are also picnic areas at Cannop Ponds, and visitor tips mention good food options in the vicinity.
Mallards Pike Lake offers a beautiful setting for leisurely strolls and wildlife spotting. For adventure, it's adjacent to a Go Ape adventure park with treetop challenges and forest segways. There are also various running trails and a Gruffalo Orienteering course for younger visitors.


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