Top 10 Lakes around Crickhowell
Best lakes around Crickhowell are found within the Brecon Beacons National Park, offering diverse natural landscapes. The area provides access to several notable lakes, each with distinct features and activities. These bodies of water contribute to the region's natural beauty and offer various outdoor pursuits.
Best lakes around Crickhowell
- The most popular lakes is Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond), a natural monument that boasts views across the Usk Valley towards the Sugar Loaf and Black Mountains. It is a popular…
Last updated: August 6, 2026
Tor y Foel Summit
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Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond)
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The Punchbowl Lake
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Talybont Reservoir Gravel Climb
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Grwyne Fawr Reservoir
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Gwyne Fawr Reservoir -is located in the valley of the river Grwyne Fawr in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales. Completed in 1928, it has the capacity …
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Popular around Crickhowell
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Tips from the Community
Easy walk, bit rocky at the top, very enjoyable walk
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Keeper’s Pond is an amazing pond, outstanding beauty with great views of the Usk valley 🤩
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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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A fantastic long, slightly downhill gravel stretch high above Talybont Reservoir, this trail delivers both in terms of adrenaline and views! The track is wide and mostly quiet, though the gravel can be loose and a bit chunky in sections, so a gravel bike, sturdy tourer or mountain bike is best.
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Nice little pond, good place to park to do the circular route of Blorenge.
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Lovely little pond with an island in the middle.
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Grwyne Fawr Reservoir nestles in the valley below Waun Fach, the highest summit in the Black Mountains range on the eastern edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park. At the reservoir's northern end a bothy, run by the Mountain Bothies Association, is available for free overnight stays with basic facilities. The reservoir itself is a peaceful place, built in the early 20th century but since decommissioned so it no longer supplies drinking water.
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Highly recommend ❤️ Gwyne Fawr Reservoir -is located in the valley of the river Grwyne Fawr in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales. Completed in 1928, it has the capacity to hold 400,000,000 imperial gallons of water... There were Serious water shortages in most parts of the historic county of Monmouthshire. In fact By the end of the 19th-century, The area had seen a massive population increase as a result of the steel and coal industries but the supply of water to the area was complicated due to its high altitude. A site for a New Reservoir was chosen at the head of the Grwyne Fawr Valley mainly because at the height of, 1,725 ft / 526m above sea level making it the perfect plan with it being high enough to allow all of the Reservoirs water to be freely gravity fed to Abertillery and the surrounding areas. Work started 1912, but immediately hit numerous problems. The road up the valley could not take the weight of the heavy traction engines used for haulage. So It was decided that a new railway would be required. Then hit the first world war and proceedings were put on hold. Work recommenced 1919, the railway was completed, connected to the main line at Llanvihangel Crucorney. A village of construction workers and their families grew in the valley at Blaen-y-cwm. A community of some 300 people lived there with a hostel, canteen, day school, police station and hospital. Workmen quarried 200,000 tons of sandstone for the construction of the dam. Large boulders weighing up to 5 tons each were set in concrete to form the dam, which is 130 feet thick at its base, the walls were then faced with dressed stone. A 16-inch diameter steel pipeline was tunnelled through Coity Mountain carrying water to a holding reservoir in Cwmtillery. The dam was finally completed in February 1928, after which the railway and structures that served its construction were quickly dismantled including the workers village. The total cost of construction was reported to be £1 million.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes to visit near Crickhowell?
The area around Crickhowell, within the Brecon Beacons National Park, offers several notable lakes. Popular choices include Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond), known for its views across the Usk Valley, and Talybont Reservoir, which is surrounded by trails and atmospheric forest tracks. Llangorse Lake, the largest natural lake in South Wales, is also a significant natural landmark.
Are there family-friendly lakes and activities near Crickhowell?
Yes, several lakes cater to families. Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond) is a popular site for picnics and wildlife observation. Pen-y-fan Pond is also considered a good option for family outings, offering parks, playgrounds, and outdoor activities. Usk Reservoir features waymarked routes suitable for walking and cycling, making it ideal for families and dog walkers.
Which lakes offer good walking or hiking trails?
Many lakes near Crickhowell provide excellent walking opportunities. Talybont Reservoir is surrounded by hiking and biking trails and atmospheric forest tracks. Usk Reservoir has waymarked routes for walking and cycling. Llangorse Lake offers gentle strolls along its shores, while reaching Llyn y Fan Fach involves a roughly 4-mile walk through the Black Mountains, adding to its secluded charm.
Can I go wild swimming in the lakes around Crickhowell?
Yes, there are several spots known for wild swimming. Llyn y Fan Fach is considered one of the most beautiful spots for wild swimming in South Wales, offering an invigorating connection with nature. Llyn Cwm Llwch, nestled beneath Pen y Fan, is also highly regarded as a magical place for wild swimming. Keepers Pond is popular for wild swimming during summer, though visitors should be aware there are no lifeguards and the water can be cold.
What kind of natural features and wildlife can I expect to see?
The lakes are set within the stunning landscapes of the Brecon Beacons National Park. At Keeper's Pond, you can enjoy views across the Usk Valley towards the Sugar Loaf and Black Mountains and observe wildlife. Llangorse Lake is a prime spot for birdwatching. Around Llyn y Fan Fach, you might spot kestrels, buzzards, and red kites. The Punchbowl Lake is a picturesque man-made lake nestled in a wooded glacial cwm, featuring beech, ash, hazel, maple, and oak trees.
Are there any lakes with historical or cultural significance?
Yes, the region's lakes are rich in history and folklore. Llangorse Lake boasts an ancient crannog, a fortified island dwelling. Llyn y Fan Fach is steeped in local legend, being the setting for the tale of the 'Lady in the Lake'. Llyn Cwm Llwch is associated with local folklore, with tales of fairies inhabiting its waters. The Punchbowl Lake area shows evidence of post-medieval charcoal burning and industrial archaeology.
What outdoor activities, besides walking, are available near these lakes?
Beyond walking, you can enjoy various activities. Llangorse Lake is excellent for water-based activities like boating. Usk Reservoir is a great spot for fishing and is recognized as one of the National Park's top ten sites for stargazing. For cycling, there are waymarked routes around Usk Reservoir and gravel biking opportunities around Talybont Reservoir. You can find more cycling routes in the Gravel biking around Crickhowell guide.
Are there easy walking routes around the lakes for beginners or those seeking gentle strolls?
Yes, there are options for easier walks. Llangorse Lake offers gentle strolls along its shores. Usk Reservoir has waymarked routes that are suitable for various fitness levels, including families. For more easy hiking options, you can explore the Easy hikes around Crickhowell guide, which includes routes like the River Usk loop.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Crickhowell?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for wild swimming and water-based activities, though the water can still be cold. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and hiking, with beautiful seasonal foliage. The region's lakes are generally accessible year-round, but conditions can vary, especially in winter.
Are the lakes around Crickhowell accessible by public transport?
While Crickhowell itself is well-connected, direct public transport to all individual lakes can be limited due to their remote nature within the Brecon Beacons National Park. It's often advisable to check specific routes and schedules for public transport to the nearest towns or villages, and then plan for walking or cycling to the lakes.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in this region?
Visitors frequently appreciate the stunning natural beauty and diverse outdoor activities. The serene settings, picturesque views, and opportunities for hiking, wild swimming, and wildlife observation are highly valued. Many also enjoy the sense of tranquility and connection with nature that these lakes provide, often combining their visit with a picnic or a longer walk.
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