Top 7 Lakes around Crumlin
Best lakes around Crumlin, located in Monmouthshire and Gwent, Wales, offers access to several notable bodies of water. The region is characterized by its rolling hills and valleys, providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities. Crumlin itself is situated within a landscape that transitions from urban areas to more natural settings, with rivers and former industrial sites now repurposed for recreation. This area provides opportunities for exploring diverse aquatic environments, from large reservoirs to smaller community lakes.
Best lakes around Crumlin
- The most popular lakes is Llandegfedd Reservoir, a natural_monument that offers a variety of walking trails and great views. This area is designated as an SSSI for its overwintering wildfowl, with some trails closed seasonally to protect wildlife.
- Another must-see spot is Cwmbran Boating Lake, a viewpoint and family-friendly lake. Visitors can enjoy a stroll around the lake, feed local wildlife, and utilize the on-site café and children's play area.
- Visitors also love Taff Bargoed Country Park, a lake area developed from former coal mining sites. This park offers a unique landscape shaped by its industrial heritage, now providing natural and recreational spaces.
- Crumlin is known for reservoirs, boating lakes, and country park lakes. These include large bodies of water suitable for watersports and smaller, accessible lakes for leisurely walks and family activities.
- The lakes around Crumlin are appreciated by the komoot community, with 38 upvotes and 15 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Llandegfedd Reservoir
Highlight • Natural Monument
Please note that the majority of the trails are closed annually from 1st October to 1st March, this is to protect over-wintering wildfowl, for which the area has been designated an SSSI.
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Cwmbran Boating Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Llandegfedd Visitor Centre
Highlight • Cafe
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Ponthir Reservoir and Afon Llwyd River
Highlight • Lake
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Greenmeadow Community Farm Nature Reserve Stream
Highlight • River
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Tips from the Community
Be aware that if you come down to the dam on the lake you can't escape through the valley, there's a gate on both of these minor roads coming down off the dam with some very threatening signs. You have to take on one of the bastard ramps, east or west doesn't matter, they're both brutal, though I can imagine eastward is worse.
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A lovely place with great views, with a variety of walking trails on offer. Please note that the majority of the trails are closed annually from 1st October to 1st March, this is to protect over-wintering wildfowl, for which the area has been designated an SSSI.
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Located next to the Greenmeadow Community Farm in Cwmbran this reserve contains ancient woodland and a series of ponds and wetlands which are important for a range of wildlife.
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a not too taxing 6mile walk around the lake, some great views and walk through forest
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A great walk around the lake with a nice coffee shop at the end
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes around Crumlin?
Among the most popular lakes in the area are Llandegfedd Reservoir, known for its walking trails and scenic views, and Cwmbran Boating Lake, which is a family-friendly spot with a café and play area. Visitors also appreciate Taff Bargoed Country Park, a unique lake area developed from former coal mining sites.
What kind of lakes can I expect to find near Crumlin?
The area around Crumlin offers a variety of aquatic environments, including large reservoirs suitable for watersports, boating lakes for recreational activities, and country park lakes that provide natural and recreational spaces. These range from significant regional attractions like Llandegfedd Lake to smaller community ponds.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Crumlin?
Yes, several lakes are well-suited for families. Cwmbran Boating Lake is particularly family-friendly, offering a children's play area and a café. Llandegfedd Reservoir and Taff Bargoed Country Park also feature amenities and trails suitable for all ages.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths around the lakes?
Yes, Cwmbran Boating Lake offers flat, easy walks around its perimeter, making it accessible for wheelchairs and prams. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Crumlin?
You can enjoy a range of outdoor activities. Llandegfedd Reservoir is known for watersports and various walking trails. For hiking, there are numerous options, including easy and moderate routes. You can find more details on easy hikes and general hiking trails. Cycling is also popular, with several routes available, such as those detailed in the cycling guide around Crumlin.
Are there hiking trails near the lakes around Crumlin?
Absolutely. Many lakes, especially Llandegfedd Reservoir and Taff Bargoed Country Park, offer a variety of walking and hiking trails. You can explore easy routes like the Blaen Bran Community Woodland loop or more challenging options. For detailed trail information, refer to the easy hikes and hiking guides around Crumlin.
What natural features can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes offer diverse natural features. Llandegfedd Reservoir is designated as an SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) for its overwintering wildfowl. Cwmbran Boating Lake is home to various wildlife, including geese and ducks. Near Greenmeadow Community Farm Nature Reserve Stream, you can find ancient woodland and a series of ponds and wetlands important for local wildlife.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Crumlin?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. For wildlife viewing, particularly overwintering wildfowl at Llandegfedd Reservoir, be aware that some trails are closed annually from October 1st to March 1st to protect the birds. Generally, spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking and outdoor activities, while autumn provides beautiful scenery.
Are there cafes or facilities available at the lakes?
Yes, several lakes provide convenient facilities. Cwmbran Boating Lake has an on-site café and children's play area. At Llandegfedd Reservoir, you'll find the Llandegfedd Visitor Centre, which includes a coffee shop, toilets, and a small shop.
Are the lakes around Crumlin dog-friendly?
Many of the walking trails around the lakes are suitable for dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding dogs, particularly during nesting seasons or in nature reserve areas.
Can I find any historical or industrial heritage near the lakes?
Yes, Taff Bargoed Country Park is a prime example. This lake area was developed from what used to be three coal mines (Deep Navigation, Taff Merthyr, and Trelewis), offering a unique landscape shaped by its industrial past, now repurposed for recreation.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming in the lakes around Crumlin?
While Llandegfedd Reservoir is known for watersports, specific wild swimming opportunities are not widely highlighted. It's always advisable to check local regulations and safety guidelines before attempting to swim in any natural body of water, as conditions and permissions can vary.
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