Top 12 Lakes around Wendron
Best lakes around Wendron are primarily associated with Loe Pool and Stithians Lake, which are significant natural attractions in the broader local region of Cornwall. The area features diverse landscapes, including freshwater lakes, shingle bars, and surrounding woodlands. These bodies of water offer various natural habitats and recreational opportunities.
Best lakes around Wendron
- The most popular lakes is The Loe and Loe Bar, a lake that is the largest natural freshwater lake in Cornwall, separated from the sea by…
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool
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The Loe and Loe Bar
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Basset's Cove
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Penrose Estate
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Portreath Harbour and Beach
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Tips from the Community
Breathtaking views. Especially when combined with the blooming heather!
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Worth climb to the cairn for the downhill section on the main access road. Then drop into single track round the back lanes of Carharrack. Sweet! :)
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A lovely National Trust property, with a fantastic walk through the estate leading to the sea.
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On Saturday mornings, Penrose becomes the venue of West Cornwall's Parkrun with around 200 runners each week completing the 5km course. The running route follows the old Victorian carriageway through woodland and parkland with views of Loe Pool and beyond. At that time it is very busy.
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This is a nice combination. From Loe Baar you have a view of the sea on one side and a view of a freshwater lake on the other. This allows you to walk completely around the lake.
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Loe Bar was originally the mouth of the River Cober which led to a harbor at Helston. However, by the 13th century the bar had cut Helston off from the sea and formed the lake. Loe Bar consists largely of chert deposits, although it is not certain where this comes from as the nearest source is more than 200 kilometers away. There is also a reasonable amount of sand. (Cornwall Beaches)
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The Penrose Hill Estate is owned by the National Trust. The estate comprises of woodland, a coastal lake, Stable cafe plus traffic free cycling and walking tracks. For further details see their website nationaltrust.org.uk/penrose/features/new-cycling-at-penrose
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes and natural areas around Wendron?
The most popular natural areas include The Loe and Loe Bar, which is Cornwall's largest natural freshwater lake, and Penrose Estate, offering woodlands and coastal lake views. Swanpool Beach and Nature Reserve is also highly regarded for its unique mix of fresh and seawater and diverse birdlife.
Are there family-friendly activities and walks around the lakes near Wendron?
Yes, several areas are great for families. Penrose Estate offers traffic-free cycling and walking tracks with views of Loe Pool. Swanpool Beach and Nature Reserve provides a sandy cove with a cafe, crazy golf, and watersports hire, making it ideal for a family day out. Stithians Lake also features a 5-mile walk and a cafe overlooking the water.
What kind of wildlife and natural features can I expect to see at the lakes?
Loe Pool is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its unique habitat, supporting rare plant and insect species, and serving as an important overwintering site for numerous bird species. Swanpool Nature Reserve is home to over 100 species of bird due to its mix of fresh and sea water. Stithians Lake also offers opportunities to enjoy wildflowers and birdlife along its shores.
Can I go swimming or do watersports in the lakes near Wendron?
Swimming, boating, and watersports are generally not permitted in Loe Pool due to dangerous currents and tides at Loe Bar. However, Stithians Lake is a hub for various watersports, including stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, and eFoiling, available through the Stithians Lake Watersports Centre. Swanpool Beach also offers watersports hire.
Are there good walking or running trails around the lakes?
Absolutely. A 10km circular trail allows visitors to explore the woodland, marshland, and coast around Loe Pool. Stithians Lake features a 5-mile walk around its perimeter. Penrose Estate has traffic-free walking tracks. For more extensive options, you can find various running routes around Wendron, including those near Stithians Reservoir, on the Running Trails around Wendron guide.
What are the options for cycling near the lakes?
Penrose Estate offers traffic-free cycling tracks with views of Loe Pool. For mountain biking, routes like 'Poldice Valley, Carn Marth and South Wheal Frances loop from St Stithians Lake' are available. You can explore more cycling options on the Cycling around Wendron guide and the MTB Trails around Wendron guide.
Is there any historical or cultural significance to the lakes?
Loe Pool is steeped in local myth and legend, reputed to be the lake where Sir Bedivere cast King Arthur's sword, Excalibur. Historically, Loe Bar, the shingle bank separating the lake from the sea, formed by the 13th century, cutting off Helston from the sea and creating the lake, which was once the mouth of the River Cober.
Are the lakes and surrounding areas dog-friendly?
The Penrose Estate, which encompasses Loe Pool, is generally dog-friendly, offering many walking trails. It's always advisable to check specific National Trust guidelines for any seasonal restrictions or areas where dogs need to be on a lead.
What facilities are available at Penrose Estate and other lake areas?
Penrose Estate, managed by the National Trust, includes woodlands, a coastal lake, and a Stable cafe. Swanpool Beach and Nature Reserve has a cafe, crazy golf, and watersports hire. Stithians Lake also features a cafe overlooking the water.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Wendron?
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and watersports, with wildflowers and birdlife abundant. Autumn brings scenic foliage, and winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, especially around Loe Pool. The area is popular for West Cornwall's Parkrun on Saturday mornings at Penrose Estate, which can be busy.
Are there any less crowded lake options near Helston?
While Loe Pool and Stithians Lake are popular, exploring the wider Penrose Estate can lead to quieter sections. For a different experience, Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool offers a more rugged, less-trafficked option with great views and a chance for a swim in the quarry pool.
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