Top 2 Lakes around Llangyniew
Best lakes around Llangyniew are characterized by their setting within the remote Berwyn Mountains, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The area is dominated by Lake Vyrnwy, a large Victorian reservoir known for its impressive dam and surrounding nature reserve. This region provides unspoilt open countryside and serves as an important site for birdlife. It is a notable natural feature for those exploring North Powys.
Best lakes around Llangyniew
- The most popular lakes is Lake Vyrnwy Dam…
Last updated: July 4, 2026
Lake Vyrnwy Dam
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Lake Vyrnwy Dam and Picnic Area
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It flooded …
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Llanwddyn
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Tips from the Community
Llanwddyn is a small village beneath the Llanwddyn Dam on Lake Vyrnwy. The original village was flooded when the reservoir was created in the 1880s. There are a couple of accommodation options in the surroundings: the beautifully situated Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa to the north-east and the Lake Vyrnwy campsite to the east.
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Gorgeous area. Be aware the road/trail on the south side (including access to/from Llanymawddwy) are currently closed due to damage from storm Darragh. See https://www.hdcymru.co.uk/our-visitor-sites/lake-vyrnwy/storm-darragh/ for more details.
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There is a little cafe above the main car park for a coffee and cake after the "gift shop" labelled walks. As usual, Komoot makes the walk easier than using signposts - remember to download to the phone app. Kayaking/canoeing around the lake is only possible for about half of it due to a protected bird sanctuary.
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Amazing dam - there are some plaque's at the end of it to note some of the key dates. Impressive structure. I visited out of season and it was really tranquil.
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Lake Vyrnwy is a reservoir in Powys, Wales, built in the 1880s for Liverpool Corporation Waterworks to supply Liverpool with fresh water. WHICH THEY DID NOT NEED AGAIN!!! It flooded the head of the Vyrnwy valley and sadly submerged the whole village of Llanwddyn.
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Get your picnic out - what an amazing location within the sculpture park. Several benches here or just bring a blanket and sit on the grass. The dam makes an amazing backdrop to this location !!
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A great place to cycle, with well paved and flat roads all the way around. It can be hard to see much of the lake for the trees on the North side but there are some better view points to stop at on the South.
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Llyn Efyrnwy or Lake Vyrnwy is a reservoir built in the 1880s to supply water to Liverpool. The lake and nature reserve around it is jointly managed by the RSPB and is an important site for birds. It's a national nature reserve and SSSI.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most prominent lake near Llangyniew?
The most prominent and highly recommended body of water in the vicinity of Llangyniew is Lake Vyrnwy. This large Victorian reservoir is a major attraction in North Powys, known for its historical significance, natural beauty, and diverse activities.
What historical features can I find at Lake Vyrnwy?
Lake Vyrnwy is home to an impressive stone dam, built in the 1880s to supply Liverpool with fresh water. It's considered one of the oldest of its kind globally. You can experience the sheer power of the water flow on one side and the tranquility of the lake on the other. The original village of Llanwddyn was submerged when the reservoir was created, with a new village now located near the dam.
Are there family-friendly activities around Lake Vyrnwy?
Yes, Lake Vyrnwy offers several family-friendly options. The Lake Vyrnwy Dam and Picnic Area provides a great spot for a picnic with the dam as a backdrop, located within a sculpture park. The area also offers walking, cycling, boating, and horse riding, suitable for various ages.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Lake Vyrnwy?
Lake Vyrnwy is a haven for wildlife, particularly birds. It hosts a 24,000-acre RSPB Nature Reserve, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. You might spot buzzards, siskins, grebes, pied flycatchers, wood warblers, and redstarts. Viewpoints and hides are available around the lake for optimal observation.
What outdoor activities are available near the lakes around Llangyniew?
The area around Llangyniew and Lake Vyrnwy is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous trails for hiking, mountain biking, and road cycling. For easy hikes, explore routes like the Lake Vyrnwy Dam loop from Abertridwr. Mountain biking enthusiasts can check out MTB Trails around Llangyniew, while road cyclists have options like the Lake Vyrnwy Dam loop from Meifod.
Are there specific hiking trails around Lake Vyrnwy?
Yes, there are several hiking trails around Lake Vyrnwy. For an easy walk, consider the Artisans Café & Gift Shop – Lake Vyrnwy Dam loop from Abertridwr, which is about 6.2 km. Another easy option is the Lake Vyrnwy Dam – Lake Vyrnwy and Dam loop from Abertridwr, covering approximately 3.8 km.
What are the best viewpoints around Lake Vyrnwy?
The Lake Vyrnwy Dam and Picnic Area offers an excellent viewpoint, providing stunning views of the dam and the lake. The surrounding Berwyn Mountains also offer spectacular vistas of the unspoilt countryside.
Is Lake Vyrnwy accessible for a day trip?
Despite its remote feel, Lake Vyrnwy is a short drive from the Shropshire border, making it an accessible day trip from cities like Birmingham, Liverpool, Chester, or Manchester. It also serves as a convenient base for exploring Snowdonia and the Welsh Marches.
Can I find accommodation near Lake Vyrnwy?
Yes, there are accommodation options available near Lake Vyrnwy. The new village of Llanwddyn, located near the dam, offers choices such as the beautifully situated Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa, and a campsite to the east.
What do visitors enjoy most about Lake Vyrnwy?
Visitors frequently praise the impressive architecture of the Lake Vyrnwy Dam, noting the contrast between the powerful flow of water on one side and the peaceful tranquility of the lake on the other. The stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and the wide range of activities like cycling and walking are also highly appreciated.
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