Best lakes around Veryan Cornwall offers a blend of coastal charm and rural tranquility on the Roseland Peninsula. The village itself is known for its historic architecture and proximity to the sea. While Veryan features quaint village ponds and small fishing lakes, the wider region of Cornwall provides access to larger water bodies. This area is characterized by rolling Cornish countryside and diverse natural landscapes.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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In Gerrans Bay sits the fishing village of Portscatho. As its east facing, it's a sheltered spot, perfect for a post run swim.
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Cowlands Creek feeds into the River Fal. This is a picturesque place by the creek to stop for a picnic and enjoy the view. The name 'Cowlands' may come from the Cornish word 'Cownan' which means 'steep-sided valley'.
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The coastal path from here has very nice views but requires some fitness level.
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St Mawes is a stunning little town built around a quaint harbour encompassing shops, pubs & restaurants with a large helping of dream homes to boot. Well worth exploring & enjoying the local fayre in the summer sun.
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In the narrow streets of Mevagissey you find myriad shops, workshops, galleries, cafes and pubs, as well as many old buildings made of cob and slate. There are plenty of traditional fish and chip shops to try here, too. The picturesque town was once the centre of Cornwall’s pilchard fishery and, even today, still has a small working harbour with a few dozen fishing boats.
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The sheltered cove of Portscatho made it the perfect place for the pilchard fleets of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Even today, the village is an active fishing port. Due to its shelter, swimming is safe and there is plenty of sandy beach to enjoy.
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Veryan itself features quaint village ponds like the picturesque Veryan Village Pond, small fishing lakes such as the Veryan Club Site Lake, and historic mill ponds like the one at Melinsey Mill. For larger, more active lake experiences, the wider Cornwall area offers extensive reservoirs like Stithians Lake and Colliford Lake.
Yes, several spots are great for families. Portscatho Harbour offers safe swimming conditions and a sandy beach. Mevagissey Harbour is a bustling fishing village with an aquarium and shops that families can enjoy. For a quieter natural setting, Cowlands Creek is a picturesque spot ideal for a picnic.
Mevagissey Harbour is a significant historical site, once a center for Cornwall’s pilchard fishery, and still operates as a working harbour. The Melinsey Mill Pond is part of a historic sixteenth-century mill with a museum. Veryan Village itself is known for its historic architecture, with the Veryan Village Pond situated opposite the historic St Symphorian's Church.
While Veryan's immediate ponds are generally not for watersports, the wider Cornwall area offers excellent options. Stithians Lake is a hub for activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing. Siblyback Lake and the Tamar Lakes also provide opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Yes, there are many scenic walking opportunities. Colliford Lake offers a network of trails ideal for walking and cycling. Stithians Lake has a five-mile circular walk, and the Tamar Lakes provide level footpaths. You can also find numerous cycling and MTB routes in the region, such as those detailed in the Cycling around Veryan and MTB Trails around Veryan guides.
For a unique wild swimming experience, Kennall Vale Quarry Lake within the Kennall Vale Nature Reserve is a notable spot. However, visitors should always be mindful of nature reserve guidelines and safety when considering wild swimming.
The larger lakes in Cornwall, such as Colliford Lake and the Tamar Lakes, are excellent for wildlife watching, particularly birdlife. These areas provide habitats for various species, making them ideal for nature enthusiasts.
The Veryan Club Site Lake is primarily used for fishing, offering a peaceful setting for anglers. Siblyback Lake is also known for its fishing, being stocked with trout.
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of coastal charm and rural tranquility. The picturesque harbours like Portscatho Harbour and Mevagissey Harbour are loved for their active fishing communities, shops, and cafes. Scenic viewpoints, such as the View of Hallane Beach and Black Head from the South West Coast Path, are also highly rated for their stunning vistas.
Yes, you'll find amenities in many of the coastal villages. Mevagissey Harbour has numerous cafes, pubs, and traditional fish and chip shops. Portscatho Harbour also offers a village store, a local pub (The Plume of Feathers), and places for coffee and pizza with a view. Stithians Lake has a café overlooking the water.
The lakes and coastal areas around Veryan can be enjoyed year-round. Summer is ideal for watersports and beach activities, while spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and fewer crowds. Siblyback Lake, located within the Bodmin Moor Dark Sky Reserve, is also an excellent spot for stargazing, making it appealing after dusk.
The Tamar Lakes are known for providing level footpaths, which are suitable for walking and cycling, making them a good option for visitors seeking easier access.


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