Explore the Beauty of Lake Vyrnwy Reservoir in Wales | Complete Guide

Lake Vyrnwy Reservoir, Wales A Complete Guide


Nestled amidst the breathtaking Welsh countryside lies a hidden gem waiting to be explored - Lake Vyrnwy. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a nature lover seeking a peaceful retreat, this picturesque location offers something for everyone. From the tranquil waters of the lake to the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills, there's no shortage of natural beauty to behold. So why not plan your next adventure and experience the magic of Lake Vyrnwy for yourself?


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How To Get To Lake Vyrnwy Reservoir

Lake Vyrnwy Reservoir is a stunning location located in the Berwyn Mountains of Mid Wales. Here's a guide on how to get there:


By Car: If you're travelling by car, the most direct route to Lake Vyrnwy is via the A458 from Shrewsbury. Follow the signs towards Welshpool, and then continue on the A483 towards Llanymynech. From there, take the B4393 towards Lake Vyrnwy. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes from Shrewsbury.


By Public Transport: If you're travelling by public transport, the nearest train station to Lake Vyrnwy is Welshpool, which is served by Transport for Wales. From Welshpool, you can take a bus (Service T41) towards Lake Vyrnwy, which runs twice a day on weekdays and once a day on Saturdays. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the station, which takes approximately 30 minutes.


By Foot: If you're an experienced hiker, you can also reach Lake Vyrnwy on foot via one of the many trails in the area. The most popular trail is the Glyndwr's Way, which is a 135-mile long-distance trail that passes through Lake Vyrnwy. The section from Welshpool to Lake Vyrnwy is approximately 12 miles long and takes around 5 hours to complete.

Whichever way you choose to get there, make sure to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable footwear. And don't forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery!


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Is Lake Vyrnwy worth visiting?

Yes, Lake Vyrnwy is definitely worth visiting! It is a beautiful and peaceful location, surrounded by scenic hills and forests, and is a great destination for a day trip or a longer stay.


There are many activities to enjoy at Lake Vyrnwy, including walking, cycling, fishing, and water sports such as kayaking and sailing. There are also several picnic areas and benches dotted around the lake, where visitors can relax and take in the stunning views.


In addition to the natural beauty of the area, there are several historic and cultural attractions to explore, including the impressive dam and the sculpture park near the visitor center.


Lake Vyrnwy is also home to a range of wildlife, including several species of birds and mammals, and is an important nature reserve. The lake and surrounding hills offer many opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.


Overall, whether you're looking for outdoor activities, scenic views, or a chance to relax and unwind in a beautiful natural setting, Lake Vyrnwy is definitely worth a visit.


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Parking at Lake Vyrnwy

There are two pay and display carparks which you can park in, one being the main carpark with an additional carpark alongside the cafe. See charges below.

There are also a free car parks surrounding the lake, including the Old Village car park, Rhiwargor car park, and a few others dotted around the lake.


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Is Lake Vyrnwy open to the public?

Yes, Lake Vyrnwy is open to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The lake and its surrounding area are managed by Welsh Water, and there are several public access points around the lake. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, cycling, fishing, bird watching, and boating.


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Do you have to pay to park at Lake Vyrnwy?

Yes, there is a charge for parking at Lake Vyrnwy. The current parking charges as of my knowledge cutoff in 2021 were:

  • £2 for up to 2 hours
  • £4 for all-day parking

There is also a 505 discount for RSPB members, please note you will need your membership badge to display with your parking.


However, please note that parking charges can be subject to change, so it's best to check the official website or contact the Lake Vyrnwy visitor center for the latest information.


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Lake Vyrnwy Cost

It's free to walk around and enjoy Lake Vyrnwy

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Overnight Parking At Lake Vyrnwy

As far as we're aware, overnight parking at Lake Vyrnwy is not permitted in public car parks. If you're planning on staying overnight in the area, you may need to find alternative parking arrangements or accommodation that offers parking facilities.


Also, camping is not allowed in the car parks or on the shores of the lake, and overnight stays in motorhomes or other vehicles are also not permitted.


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Are There Toilets At Lake Vyrnwy

There are toilets located near the dam, which is on the south side of the lake. Map link.


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Lake Vyrnwy Walks And Trail(s)

There are several walks and trails around Lake Vyrnwy, catering to a range of abilities and interests. Here are a few examples:

  1. Lake Vyrnwy circular walk: This is the most popular walk around the lake, and takes around 4-5 hours to complete. It follows a well-maintained path around the edge of the lake, offering stunning views of the water and the surrounding hills.
  2. Sculpture trail: This is a shorter walk that takes you on a journey through the forest, where you can discover a range of sculptures created by local artists.
  3. Waterfall walk: This trail takes you to some of the hidden waterfalls and streams around the lake, and is a great option for those who want to explore some of the quieter areas.
  4. Glyndwr's Way: This is a long-distance trail that passes through Lake Vyrnwy, offering a challenging and scenic walk through the Welsh countryside.
  5. Rhiwargor Waterfall Trail: This is a short walk that takes you to Rhiwargor Falls, which is a beautiful waterfall located just a short distance from the lake.


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How long is the walk around Lake Vyrnwy?

The distance of the walk around Lake Vyrnwy is approximately 11 miles (18 km) and it takes around 4-5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.


The path around the lake is well-maintained and mostly flat, but there are some areas where the terrain is uneven or steeper, so sturdy footwear is recommended.


It's worth noting that the path is also shared with cyclists, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take care when passing or being passed by others.


Overall, the walk around Lake Vyrnwy is a beautiful and scenic route that offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding hills, so it's definitely worth the effort.


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Can You Walk Around Lake Vyrnwy?

Yes, there is a road around Lake Vyrnwy, which is a popular route for walkers, runners, and cyclists. The road is approximately 11 miles (18 km) long and circles the entire lake, offering stunning views of the water and the surrounding hills. When we visited there was very little traffic and loved walking around the Lake.


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Can I drive around Lake Vyrnwy?

Yes, you can drive around Lake Vyrnwy. There is a circular road that runs around the entire lake, which is approximately 11 miles (18 km) long. The road is known as the B4393 and it offers stunning views of the lake and its surrounding hills.


It's important to note that the road can be narrow and winding in places, and there are some steep sections, so drivers should take care and drive slowly, particularly in bad weather conditions. Additionally, there may be some temporary road closures or restrictions in place for maintenance or events, so it's a good idea to check ahead before you travel.


Overall, driving around Lake Vyrnwy can be a great way to see the lake and its surroundings, and there are several laybys and parking areas along the road where you can stop and take in the views or go for a walk.


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What was filmed in Lake Vyrnwy?

Nativity 2: Danger in the Manger! Lake Vyrnwy is featured in the film. Mr Poppy drives the Duck Tours bus into the lake after he finds the baby on the bus. You can see the Lake Vyrnwy Dam in the background


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How much does it cost to canoe on Lake Vyrnwy?

Boat Hire Prices At Lake Vyrnwy


There’s a good selection of boats you can choose from at Lake Vyrnwy, here’s a breakdown of the prices:


  • Open canoes can hold up to three adults, which means you can spread the cost of this between family and friends. 1 hour – £20 | Up to 3 hours – £40 | All day hire – £50
  • Single-seat kayaks hold one person and are great if you love a bit of independence on the water. 1 hour – £15 | Up to 3 hours – £30 | All day hire – £40
  • Stand-up paddle boards can also be hired. 1 hour – £15 | Up to 3 hours – £30 | All day hire – £40


There’s also the option to hire a wetsuit if you’re visiting in the cooler months. They also offer Windsurfing as well as Sailing for both beginners and experienced sailors.


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Can I take my own kayak on Lake Vyrnwy?

If you have your own boat paddle board or kayak that you would like to take out onto Lake Vyrnwy, you can launch it from the boathouse slipway. There is a small fee of £5 for the whole day. This can only be done if there is a safety boat in the water.


The card machine is very intermittent here as the signal is poor in this part of Wales. So it’s advised to bring cash so you can pay for the experience. I would bring a bit extra just in case you run over time and need to pay for extra hours on the water.


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Can you paddleboard on Lake Vyrnwy?

Launch from the boat house only (Bethania Watersports), which opens 10 am. £5 launch fee. Some areas of the lake are restricted, including the dam and a 10m safe zone around the tower.


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Can you take your own boat on Lake Vyrnwy?

Guest boats are allowed on the lake for a small launch fee. Boats will be checked for seaworthiness and they must be launched from the boathouse slipway strictly while the safety boat is on the water.


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Is swimming allowed in Lake Vyrnwy?

Swimming is not allowed in Lake Vyrnwy due to safety concerns. So if you're wondering can you swim in Lake Vyrnwy? Then the answer is no.


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Why is swimming prohibited in Lake Vyrnwy?

The lake is a drinking water reservoir, and there are strict regulations in place to protect the quality of the water. Additionally, the lake can be deep in places and the water temperature can be cold, which can pose a risk to swimmers, particularly those who are inexperienced.


However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, there are some designated areas around the lake where wild swimming is permitted, such as the Rhiwargor Waterfall and the nearby plunge pools. These areas are marked with signs and should only be used by experienced swimmers who are aware of the potential risks.


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What village was flooded to make Lake Vyrnwy?

The village that was flooded to make Lake Vyrnwy was called Llanwddyn. The decision to create the lake was made in the late 19th century to provide a reliable source of drinking water for the city of Liverpool, which was experiencing rapid population growth at the time.


The creation of the lake required the construction of a large dam to hold back the water, and this involved flooding the valley where Llanwddyn was located. The village was relocated to a nearby site, and many of the buildings were dismantled and rebuilt in the new location. However, some buildings were left behind and can still be seen today when the water levels are low.


Today, Lake Vyrnwy is a popular tourist destination and a valuable source of drinking water for the local area. The lake and its surrounding hills are also home to a range of wildlife and offer a range of recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy.


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Where is the sunken village in Lake Vyrnwy?

The sunken village in Lake Vyrnwy is the remains of the original village of Llanwddyn, which was flooded when the lake was created in the late 19th century. The village was submerged when the valley was flooded to create the reservoir, and the remains of the buildings can be seen when the water levels are low.


The exact location of the sunken village can vary depending on the water levels in the lake. In dry conditions, the ruins of the old village can be seen near the shoreline of the lake, particularly in the area known as Llwybr Ceiriog Trail. However, in wetter conditions, the ruins may be completely submerged and not visible.


It's important to note that while the ruins of the old village can be an interesting sight to see, visitors should take care when exploring the area, particularly if the ruins are wet or slippery. Additionally, visitors should respect the remains of the village and avoid damaging or removing any artifacts or structures.


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Can I take my dog to Lake Vyrnwy?

Yes, you can take your dog to Lake Vyrnwy. Dogs are allowed in the public areas around the lake, including the car parks, picnic areas, and some of the walking trails. However, it's important to keep your dog under control and on a lead at all times, especially when around other people or wildlife.


It's also important to clean up after your dog and dispose of any waste in the bins provided. This helps to keep the area clean and pleasant for other visitors and helps to protect the natural environment.


Lake Vyrnwy is a great destination for dog owners, and there are many scenic walks and trails where you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings with your furry friend.


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Are there fish in Lake Vyrnwy?

Yes, there are fish in Lake Vyrnwy. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, rainbow trout, pike, perch, and grayling.


Fishing is a popular activity at Lake Vyrnwy, and visitors can obtain a fishing permit from the Lake Vyrnwy Sailing Club or from the visitor centre. There are several fishing areas around the lake, including designated fly-fishing zones and bait-fishing zones.


It's important to note that fishing regulations and bag limits apply at Lake Vyrnwy, and visitors should follow the rules and guidelines set out by the sailing club and Severn Trent Water to help protect the fish stocks and ensure sustainable fishing practices.


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Things To Do Near Lake Vyrnwy

There's lots to see and do when you're visiting Lake Vyrnwy. If you get done with the lake here are a few suggestions on what you can add to your itinerary:



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Where To Stay Near Lake Vyrnwy

There are several accommodation options available near Lake Vyrnwy in Wales. Here are a few suggestions:


Lake Vyrnwy Hotel & Spa - Lake Vyrnwy Hotel & Spa is a luxury hotel located on the shore of Lake Vyrnwy, in the heart of the Welsh countryside. The hotel offers a range of rooms and suites, many of which feature stunning lake or forest views. The rooms are elegantly furnished and equipped with modern amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee-making facilities.


The hotel has a range of dining options, including the award-winning Tower Restaurant, which serves modern British cuisine made with locally-sourced ingredients, and the Tavern Brasserie, which offers a more casual dining experience with classic pub dishes and a selection of beers and wines.


For guests looking to relax and unwind, the hotel's spa offers a range of treatments and facilities, including a sauna, steam room, and indoor pool. There are also several outdoor activities available in the area, including walking, cycling, fishing, and water sports.


Lake Vyrnwy Hotel & Spa is a great choice for visitors looking for a luxurious and peaceful retreat in a beautiful natural setting.

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  • Can you swim in Lake Vyrnwy

    Officials have said Swimming is strictly prohibited, the reservoirs are made to supply water and are extremely deep. here are hidden infrastructure and hidden currents. This makes them unsafe to swim in.

  • How long does it take to walk around Lake Vyrnwy

    It can take around 4-5 hours to walk around Lake Vyrnwy and is 11 miles in total.

  • Can you walk around Lake Vyrnwy

    Yes, you can walk around Lake Vyrnwy. It's mostly on the road but that's pretty quite.

  • Lake Vyrnwy Dog Walks

    Lake Vyrnwy is a great place for dogs. You can head to Llyn Vyrnwy Sculpture Trail and take your dog a great walk with an epic view of the dam.

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