Top 8 Lakes around Risca East
Best lakes around Risca East are primarily found slightly outside the immediate community, which is characterized by the historic Monmouthshire to Brecon Canal. While natural lakes are not a direct feature of Risca East itself, the canal offers opportunities for water-based activities such as walking and cycling. For those seeking lakes, options like Cwmbran Boating Lake, Pen-y-fan Pond, and Llandegfedd Lake are located within a reasonable distance. The area provides access to diverse outdoor pursuits, including hillwalking and mountain biking…
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Llandegfedd Reservoir
Highlight • Natural Monument
Please note that the majority of the trails are closed annually from 1st October to 1st …
Tip by
Cwmbran Boating Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
RSPB Newport Wetlands National Nature Reserve
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Tip by
Ponthir Reservoir and Afon Llwyd River
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Risca East.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs forms a vital part of the green and blue infrastructure of Cardiff. The mix of grassland, woodland, scrub and waterside habitats offers opportunities for all kinds of wildlife and nature. There are two Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and much of the grassland and woodland outside of the SSSIs is designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC). Dogs are permitted on the café balcony, car park and Grab & Go seating area only and are not permitted anywhere else on the site, including the paths. Natural Resources Wales has advised that the risk from dogs to the fungi is too great. Waxcaps are very sensitive to changes in habitat such as fluctuations in soil moisture, temperature and nitrate levels which can reduce the production of fruiting bodies. In particular, sudden changes to nitrate levels on the site – from dog urine specifically – can have a detrimental effect on the fungi. There is a fully accessible Visitor Centre with cafe, toilets, free wi-fi, room hire, equipment hire, changing rooms and other facilities include the boathouse, bird hide, education centre, nature trails and paths, bike parking/shelters and car parking.
1
0
National Nature Reserve lying between the Severn Estuary and the River Usk
0
0
Be aware that if you come down to the dam on the lake you can't escape through the valley, there's a gate on both of these minor roads coming down off the dam with some very threatening signs. You have to take on one of the bastard ramps, east or west doesn't matter, they're both brutal, though I can imagine eastward is worse.
1
0
A lovely place with great views, with a variety of walking trails on offer. Please note that the majority of the trails are closed annually from 1st October to 1st March, this is to protect over-wintering wildfowl, for which the area has been designated an SSSI.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Risca East?
While Risca East itself is characterized by the historic Monmouthshire to Brecon Canal, the surrounding area offers a variety of water bodies. You can find managed recreational lakes like Cwmbran Boating Lake, significant natural reserves such as Llandegfedd Reservoir, and wetland areas like RSPB Newport Wetlands National Nature Reserve.
Are there any family-friendly lakes near Risca East?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Cwmbran Boating Lake is particularly popular, offering a children's play area, opportunities to feed geese and ducks, and a café. Llandegfedd Reservoir and RSPB Newport Wetlands National Nature Reserve also have family-friendly trails and facilities.
What are the best lakes for walking around Risca East?
For walks, Llandegfedd Reservoir offers a variety of walking trails with great views. Cwmbran Boating Lake provides a flat, easy stroll perfect for a leisurely walk. Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs also feature nature trails, though some restrictions apply for dogs.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths around the lakes?
Yes, Cwmbran Boating Lake offers wheelchair-accessible paths, making it suitable for everyone to enjoy a stroll. Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs also have accessible paths and a fully accessible Visitor Centre.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes near Risca East?
Dog policies vary by location. At Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs, dogs are permitted only on the café balcony, car park, and Grab & Go seating area, but not on the paths due to the protection of sensitive fungi. Always check specific site rules before visiting with your dog.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Risca East?
The best time to visit depends on your activity. For general walking and enjoying the scenery, spring and summer offer pleasant weather. However, be aware that some trails at Llandegfedd Reservoir are closed annually from October 1st to March 1st to protect overwintering wildfowl.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond lake activities, the region offers diverse outdoor pursuits. You can find easy hikes around Risca East, such as the 'Hiking loop from Risca' or 'Fourteen Locks Pond – Canal Walkway loop from Rogerstone', which you can explore further in the Easy hikes around Risca East guide. For mountain biking, Cwmcarn Forest Drive is nearby, with trails like 'Cafall Rock Garden' detailed in the MTB Trails around Risca East guide.
Are there cafes or facilities available at the lakes?
Yes, several lakes offer facilities. Cwmbran Boating Lake has a café where you can get ice cream. Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs features a fully accessible Visitor Centre with a café, toilets, and free Wi-Fi.
What natural features can I expect to see at these lakes?
The lakes offer a range of natural beauty. Llandegfedd Reservoir is a designated SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) known for its great views and importance for wildfowl. Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs boast diverse habitats including grassland, woodland, scrub, and waterside areas, supporting various wildlife and nature. RSPB Newport Wetlands National Nature Reserve is a significant wetland area between the Severn Estuary and the River Usk.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Risca East?
Visitors appreciate the scenic views and varied walking opportunities. Many enjoy the easy strolls and family-friendly atmosphere at places like Cwmbran Boating Lake, while others value the natural beauty and wildlife protection efforts at sites like Llandegfedd Reservoir.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest near the lakes?
While the lakes themselves are primarily natural or recreational, the wider area around Risca East has historical significance. The community is characterized by the historic Monmouthshire to Brecon Canal. For more ancient history, the Iron Age fort at Twm Barlwm is within walking distance of Risca East.
How far is Pen-y-fan Pond from Risca East?
Pen-y-fan Pond is located approximately 5.7 miles from Risca East, situated in Caerphilly. It's known as a park and playground area with outdoor facilities.
Most popular routes around Risca East
Most popular attractions around Risca East
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Risca East? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
