Top 19 Lakes around Llanfrynach
Best lakes around Llanfrynach are found within the Brecon Beacons National Park in Powys, Wales. The village provides access to several notable bodies of water, primarily reservoirs, that contribute to the area's natural appeal. These locations offer diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities for visitors.
Best lakes around Llanfrynach
- The most popular lakes is Pontsticill Reservoir, a reservoir known for its scenic beauty and as a starting point for hiking and biking trails. A trail encircles the entire reservoir, offering walking opportunities.
- Another must-see spot is Tommy Jones Memorial, a man-made monument that marks a historical spot. It offers spectacular views when weather conditions are favorable.
- Visitors also love Tor y Foel Summit, a summit rising above the Talybont Reservoir. Its position provides vantage points of the Central Beacons massif.
- Llanfrynach is known for its reservoirs and natural lake settings. These bodies of water offer diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
- The lakes around Llanfrynach are appreciated by the komoot community. The komoot community has contributed 32 photos and 38 upvotes to these locations.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Tor y Foel Summit
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Tommy Jones Memorial
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Talybont Reservoir Gravel Climb
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Lower Neuadd Reservoir
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A challenging upland mountain walk that takes you into the heart of the Brecon Beacons. This includes some steep climbs and a flat ridge. You will find you may be walking on some made and some unmade footpaths. You'll be rewarded with spectacular views if the weather is good. Please be prepared for unpredictable mountain weather.
What Essentials You Need:
• Good Sturdy Boots
• Windproof Outer Jacket
• Gloves
• Waterproofs
• Map
• Compass
• Torch
• 1st Aid Kit
• A Whistle.
all of which is listed above is and will be essentially needed at some point throughout this walk, as the weather is very changeable and the system can change in just minutes in these mountains.
Difficulty:- Challenging
Time:- 5 hours - 6 hours
Distance:- 10 miles (16 km)
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Pontsticill Reservoir
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Tips from the Community
lovely . ( no phone signal ) bring yourself a drink and enjoy the view
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When coming off the mountain to go down towards the car park it’s quite a steep scramble and can be slippery
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Area with nice views over the former reservoir, a couple of lost places and newly set up path and benches - an interesting mix of old and new and still in transformation.
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I have been coming up here now for about forty years. There are a variety of routes to here, but each one brings you to this one spot. These lumps of stone and the views are drop-dead gorgeous. Top it off with a visit to the pub afterwards, and it's a good day out. It's also a good run—before you get to the pub, of course!
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Lower Neuadd Reservoir is located in the Brecon Beacons, 5km north of Merthyr Tydfil in south Wales. The reservoir, which is an embankment dam, was constructed in 1884. It is the middle of a cascade of three reservoirs, with Upper Neuadd situated 3km upstream of the much larger Pontsticill Reservoir. Lower Neuadd Reservoir had a capacity of 195,454m3 with a top water level of 427.6mOD. Lower Neuadd Reservoir was no longer used for water supply and did not form part of Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water’s Water Resources Management Plan. Furthermore, there was concern regarding the age of the dam and the deteriorating spillway channel. Taking this into consideration along with the high cost to bring the dam back into safe operations and to comply with the Measures in the Interest Of Safety (MIOS), it was proposed to discontinue Lower Neuadd Reservoir.
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The Pontsticill Reservoir is filled by the Taf Fechan via the Pentwyn Reservoir directly upstream. It was built by damming the valley and completed in 1927. The aim was to supply drinking water for the increasingly populated area to the south. You can loop the reservoir for a nice gentle run or follow the longer Taff Trail up the western shore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes and reservoirs near Llanfrynach?
The primary bodies of water near Llanfrynach are reservoirs within the Brecon Beacons National Park. These include Pontsticill Reservoir, known for its scenic beauty and trails, Lower Neuadd Reservoir, and Talybont Reservoir, which offers picturesque views. The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal also provides tranquil waters for recreation.
Are there good hiking trails around the lakes near Llanfrynach?
Yes, the area offers numerous hiking opportunities. For instance, Pontsticill Reservoir has a trail encircling it, though parts involve road walking. The area around Tor y Foel Summit, overlooking Talybont Reservoir, is also popular for hiking. You can find more detailed hiking routes in the Hiking around Llanfrynach guide.
Which lakes offer family-friendly activities?
Pontsticill Reservoir is considered family-friendly, offering scenic beauty and walking trails suitable for various ages. The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal is also a great option for gentle walks or cycling with the family.
Can I bring my dog on trails around the lakes?
Many trails in the Brecon Beacons National Park, including those around the reservoirs, are dog-friendly. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or during ground-nesting bird seasons, and to check specific signage at each location.
What are some notable viewpoints or natural features to see?
The Tor y Foel Summit provides excellent vantage points of the Central Beacons massif and Talybont Reservoir. The area around Lower Neuadd Reservoir also offers nice views. The Brynich Aqueduct on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal is a notable man-made feature offering tranquil views.
Are there any historical sites near the lakes?
Yes, the Tommy Jones Memorial is a significant historical site near the reservoirs. It marks the spot where a young boy went missing in 1900 and offers spectacular views when the weather is good.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Llanfrynach?
The lakes and reservoirs are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather ideal for outdoor activities. Autumn brings stunning foliage, while winter can offer dramatic, crisp landscapes, though mountain weather can be unpredictable and challenging.
Are there options for cycling or mountain biking near the reservoirs?
Absolutely. Pontsticill Reservoir is a starting point for many biking trails. The Talybont Reservoir Gravel Climb is a popular gravel track that is part of the Taff Trail, suitable for gravel or cross bikes. The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal also offers flat, tranquil paths for cycling. For more routes, check the Running Trails around Llanfrynach guide, which includes multi-use paths.
Where can I find easy walks around the lakes?
The trail around Pontsticill Reservoir offers a relatively gentle walk, though some sections are on roads. The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal provides over 35 miles of tranquil, flat paths perfect for easy walks.
What should I know about parking when visiting these lakes?
Parking is generally available at popular access points for the reservoirs. However, when visiting Pontsticill Reservoir, visitors are advised to be mindful of potential thefts from unattended vehicles and to take valuables with them.
Are there any challenging hikes in the Llanfrynach area?
Yes, the Brecon Beacons National Park offers challenging upland mountain walks. For example, the Neuadd Valley, which includes Lower Neuadd Reservoir, is part of a challenging upland mountain walk that takes you into the heart of the Brecon Beacons, with steep climbs and exposed ridges. You can find more challenging routes in the Mountain Hikes around Llanfrynach guide.
Is wild swimming permitted in any of the lakes?
While the reservoirs are primarily for drinking water supply, wild swimming is generally not officially permitted in most of them due to safety and water quality concerns. It's always best to check local regulations and signage before attempting to swim in any natural body of water.
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