Best lakes around Padstow, while not directly within the town, are found in the surrounding Cornwall area, offering diverse aquatic experiences. The region is characterized by its rugged coastline, charming fishing villages, and inland reservoirs. These water bodies provide opportunities for recreation, wildlife observation, and tranquil walks amidst the Cornish landscape. The area combines coastal beauty with accessible inland water features.
Last updated: June 18, 2026
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Popular around Padstow
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Gravel biking around Padstow
Nice run, sometimes narrow paths for a trail run but beautiful route!
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Beautiful hike well worth the effort and experience. It’s called the roller coaster for a reason 😁
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The origins of Port Isaac are likely Celtic and the development of the town can be roughly divided into three phases. Through the Middle Ages and up to the coming of the railways, Port Isaac was a thriving port serving the area inland. During the Tudor period the harbour was dredged, a good illustration of its importance. Once goods from locations further inland were better served by the North Cornwall Railway, the economy of the port relied on pilchard fishing, probably a centuries-old industry. However the pilchard shoals began to decline, and after World War I tourism became the mainstay of the economy.
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A certain sadness surrounds Port Quin. In the 19th century all the men from the small fishing port were lost at sea. The women and children who lived in the village abandoned their homes presumably due to having the the culture of the time meaning they were relient on the men's incomes. Port Quin is sometimes known as 'the village that died'.
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Made famous by the popular TV series, Doc Martin, Port Isaac is quaint fishing village in a sheltered part of Cornwall's rugged coast. It is also home to the Sea Shanty group 'Fisherman's Friends' and the movie about the singers was filmed here too.
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Padstow is famous for it's beautiful harbour, sandy beaches and amazing fish restaurants. Whether you grab fish and chips and sit on the harbour wall, or sample TV chef Rick Stein's first restaurant, the beaches and the food are not to be missed whilst you're here!
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It is a nightmare to cycle through once the visitors are there I.e. most of the year. Cyclists don't stand a chance, I cycle to Rock and catch the ferry over to P if I need to go there.
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Car park available, and a good point to start a tour to Port Isaac
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For exhilarating water activities, Retallack Aqua Park near St Columb Major offers an inflatable aqua park, wakeboarding, and a FlowRider artificial wave machine. Further afield, Stithians Reservoir is a major hub for watersports, providing opportunities for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, and eFoiling.
Yes, several lakes offer excellent walking and cycling paths. Siblyback Lake on Bodmin Moor features a scenic 3-mile circular path that is almost flat, popular with runners, cyclists, and wheelchair users. Porth Reservoir has a well-maintained 3-mile walk, and Colliford Lake, Cornwall's largest inland lake, offers signposted walks of varying lengths amidst its vast open spaces. For more options, explore the family-friendly hikes around Padstow.
Anglers have several excellent choices. Siblyback Lake is known for its resident Brown Trout and regularly stocked Rainbow Trout. Porth Reservoir is a mature coarse fishery with carp up to 34lbs. Colliford Lake also permits fishing with a permit. For dedicated coarse fishing, The Alps Fishery near St Columb Major features a 5-acre main lake with carp and pike, plus a canal-like lake stocked with multiple species.
Porth Reservoir is a designated bird sanctuary, featuring two wooden bird hides, making it a prime spot for birdwatching. Colliford Lake, located within a National Landscape, is also significant for birdwatching, with diverse species present throughout the year. Stithians Reservoir also offers opportunities to spot various birdlife along its 5-mile circumference walk.
Absolutely. Retallack Aqua Park is ideal for families seeking thrilling water-based activities. For more tranquil family outings, the accessible paths around Siblyback Lake are great for walks, and Porth Reservoir offers gentle walks and birdwatching. The family-friendly hikes around Padstow guide provides additional options.
Siblyback Lake is noted for its almost flat, 3-mile circular path, making it popular with wheelchair users. This provides a scenic and accessible option for enjoying the lakeside environment.
Yes, Tregonetha Lake, located near Padstow, borders a quiet family campsite. It offers off-grid pitches and lakeside walks, providing a peaceful setting for camping with easy access to fishing and nature.
Colliford Lake is Cornwall's largest inland lake, covering approximately 900 acres on Bodmin Moor. Stithians Reservoir is also one of Cornwall's largest reservoirs, featuring an impressive 42-meter high dam and a 5-mile circumference walk.
For gentle outdoor experiences, Siblyback Lake offers an almost flat 3-mile circular path, perfect for beginners in walking or cycling. The well-maintained 3-mile walk around Porth Reservoir is also suitable for those looking for an easy stroll in nature.
The lakes in the region offer diverse natural beauty. You can expect to see wild uplands and moorland around Siblyback Lake and Colliford Lake on Bodmin Moor. Porth Reservoir is a bird sanctuary, offering rich birdlife. Stithians Reservoir features wildflowers and diverse birdlife along its shores. The running trails around Padstow and family-friendly hikes can lead you to these natural settings.
While specific dog-friendly policies can vary, many of the walking paths around lakes like Siblyback Lake, Porth Reservoir, and Colliford Lake are generally welcoming to dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding dogs.
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer warmer weather ideal for water sports and longer walks, with wildflowers in bloom. Autumn brings vibrant colours to the surrounding landscapes. Winter can be tranquil and excellent for birdwatching, especially at places like Porth Reservoir, though some facilities might have reduced hours.


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