Best lakes around Morvah are found in the broader Penwith peninsula, a coastal area in West Cornwall. While Morvah itself is primarily known for its maritime character with limited inland water bodies, the surrounding region offers various water features. These include man-made reservoirs and smaller ponds, alongside coastal harbours that are sometimes categorized as lake-like for their calm waters. The area's landscape is defined by its proximity to the sea, offering a different kind of water experience.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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This is a secluded and picturesque cove steeped in local legend. It’s famously associated with the tale of the Mermaid of Zennor, said to have lured a young man into the sea. It features crystal clear waters, steep cliffs and stunning views and is best admired from this high up vantage point.
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Reservoir with large parking lot
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There is a ferry from the harbor to the Scilly Islands, which are a must-see. Otherwise there is a nice promenade.
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View point of Drift Dam and Reservoir. The reservoir is the main water source for Penwith and construction was completed in 1961. Prior to the flooding of the valley for the reservoir, trees were cleared and buildings were left. Occasionally the water level drops low enough to see the remains of the buildings which were flooded.
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A picturesque little place.
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A great place that is occasionally admired in Rosamunde Pilcher films.
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Mousehole (Cornish: Porthenys) is a village and fishing port in Cornwall. It is about 4 km south of Penzance on the shore of Mount's Bay. An islet called St Clement's Isle lies about 350m offshore from the harbor entrance.
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This barometer was originally loaned to Mousehole by Admiral Fitzroy, the founder of the Meteorological Institute. The intention was to provide data to the institute to improve weather forecasting and storm forecasting. But also to warn the fishermen of impending bad weather in an effort to reduce the loss of life. In 2009, the Meteorological Institute donated the barometer to Mousehole Port Authority.
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Morvah itself is primarily a coastal area with very limited natural inland water bodies. The "lakes" in this region refer more broadly to coastal harbours that offer calm, lake-like waters, as well as man-made reservoirs and smaller garden ponds found in the wider Penwith peninsula.
Yes, several spots are great for families. Both Mousehole Village and Harbour and Mousehole Harbour are noted as family-friendly settlements with charming streets and shops. Penzance Seafront and Harbour also offers facilities and a beach suitable for families. For a more natural setting, the View of Drift Reservoir and Dam and the Pond in Lariggan Gardens are also considered family-friendly.
The area is rich in history. Mousehole Village and Harbour is a historic fishing village with quaint stone cottages and a past involving pilchard exports and a Spanish attack in 1595. Mousehole Harbour also features a historic barometer, originally loaned by Admiral Fitzroy to aid fishermen. Penzance Seafront and Harbour, a larger coastal town, has a rich history influenced by its role as a port and its railway connection to London since 1866.
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the moderate 'Bosigran Castle & Treen Cove loop' or the 'Carn Galver and Nine Maidens Stone Circle loop'. For cycling enthusiasts, there are road cycling routes like the 'Apple Tree Café – St Just Town Square loop' and touring bicycle routes like 'Lanyon Quoit – Carn Galver Mine loop'. You can explore more routes in the Hiking around Morvah, Road Cycling Routes around Morvah, and Cycling around Morvah guides.
Yes, the area offers several scenic viewpoints. Both Mousehole Village and Harbour and Mousehole Harbour provide picturesque views of the harbor and coastline. Penzance Seafront and Harbour offers expansive coastal views. For inland water views, the View of Drift Reservoir and Dam provides a great perspective of the reservoir, and the Pond in Lariggan Gardens offers a peaceful retreat overlooking Mount's Bay.
Due to the influence of the Gulf Stream, the region enjoys a mild climate with plenty of sunshine, even by British standards. This favors lush vegetation, making it pleasant for visits throughout much of the year. While specific lake conditions vary, the mild weather generally makes spring through autumn ideal for exploring the coastal areas and reservoirs. Walking in winter is also possible, but be prepared for potentially wetter and windier conditions, especially along the coast.
Yes, parking is available at some locations. Mousehole Harbour has parking facilities. The View of Drift Reservoir and Dam also features a large parking lot, making it convenient for visitors.
Mousehole Harbour is noted as being wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to enjoy a pleasant walk along the harbor. For other locations, it's advisable to check specific trail conditions, as the coastal terrain can be varied.
Visitors particularly enjoy the charm of Mousehole. They appreciate the narrow, bustling streets filled with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants, as well as the quaint stone cottages built from Lamorna granite. The picturesque harbor is a highlight, offering a lovely setting for walks and photography. Many find it a delightful fishing village with a rich history and a thriving art scene.
Yes, you'll find amenities in the settlements. Mousehole Village and Harbour and Mousehole Harbour are known for their small shops, galleries, and restaurants. Penzance Seafront and Harbour, being a larger town, offers a wider selection of shops, bars, and restaurants.
Penzance Seafront and Harbour is popular for its 'faded-glamour' and its status as a coastal resort. It's known for great weather and a nostalgic British seaside atmosphere. The town offers more shops, bars, and restaurants than surrounding villages, and its mild climate, influenced by the Gulf Stream, supports lush, even subtropical, vegetation along the promenade and in gardens.
While specific dog restrictions can vary by location and time of year, many outdoor areas in Cornwall are dog-friendly. For coastal walks and trails, dogs are generally welcome, though often on leads, especially in nature-sensitive areas or during nesting seasons. It's always best to check local signage at specific sites like harbors or gardens for any particular rules regarding dogs.


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