Top 5 Lakes around Tref Alaw
Best lakes around Tref Alaw are centered around Llyn Alaw, the largest body of water on Anglesey, which serves as a vital water supply for the northern part of the island. This man-made reservoir is recognized as an award-winning conservation site and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its significant wildfowl populations. The area offers opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and walking along several miles of footpaths. It also serves as a starting point for one of Anglesey's…
Last updated: July 27, 2026
Llyn Cefni Reservoir and Dam
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Llyn Cefni Dam
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During World War II, a water scheme was devised for the town of Llangefni in central Anglesey. It involved water from a local source being pumped to …
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Cemaes Harbour and Village
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Llyn Cerrig Bach
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Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
We visited for the Parkrun, which was cancelled whilst a walkway is fixed (some more weeks, I would expect). You can still access the lake along the disused railway line for part of the way - but not a good surface for running. Then there is a path around the lake with views across the lake and stretches through the woods, lovely, if rather muddy in places following wet weather. In total about 9 km around. Hope to do this again in the Spring with the promise of wild daffodils and perhaps a red squirrel.
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Quiet paths easy cycling crosses deserted railway line still present, which there trying to reopen
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The most northerly village is Wales. Some good places to stop you will also see the wind farm from the road.
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Llyn Cefni Dam During World War II, a water scheme was devised for the town of Llangefni in central Anglesey. It involved water from a local source being pumped to two settling tanks in the Dingle part of the town. From here the water was pumped across the river to a reservoir and water tower, on the site of the present Pennant Estate. These arrangements became redundant with the building of the Cefni Reservoir, which was completed in 1951, but the settling tanks and pumping station survive in Llangefni to this day. The new scheme was designed to supply most of the water needs for the people of Anglesey for the foreseeable future
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Small town with a nice harbour and promenade. There’s a stall serving coffee, ice-cream and pizza at the promenade car park, as well as a few cafes and ice-cream parlours on the main high street although there’s nowhere to really leave a bike there.
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During World War II, a water scheme was devised for the town of Llangefni in central Anglesey. It involved water from a local source being pumped to two settling tanks in the Dingle part of the town. From here the water was pumped across the river to a reservoir and water tower, on the site of the present Pennant Estate. These arrangements became redundant with the building of the Cefni Reservoir, which was completed in 1951, but the settling tanks and pumping station survive in Llangefni to this day. The new scheme was designed to supply most of the water needs for the people of Anglesey for the foreseeable future.
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Llyn Cefni is a reservoir in central Anglesey. It's managed by Welsh Water. It was completed in 1951 and supplies water to most of Anglesey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I explore around Tref Alaw?
Tref Alaw features a diverse range of aquatic environments, including large man-made reservoirs like Llyn Alaw and Llyn Cefni Reservoir and Dam, natural lakes, and coastal lagoons such as Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve. These offer varied experiences from water supply sites to wildlife havens.
What is Llyn Alaw known for?
Llyn Alaw is the largest body of water on Anglesey, primarily serving as a vital water supply for the northern part of the island. It's also an award-winning conservation site and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), particularly noted for its significant wildfowl populations and excellent fishing opportunities.
Are there good spots for birdwatching near Tref Alaw?
Yes, Llyn Alaw is a prime destination for birdwatchers, especially in winter for overwintering birds like mallard, wigeon, and common goldeneye. Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve is another excellent spot, attracting spectacular seabird colonies, including Sandwich, common, and Arctic terns, particularly from May to June.
Can I go fishing in the lakes around Tref Alaw?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Llyn Alaw boasts an active fishery with wild brown trout and regularly stocked rainbow trout. Llyn Cefni Reservoir and Dam is also used as a fishery, managed by Welsh Water.
Are there family-friendly activities around the lakes?
Many areas are suitable for families. You can enjoy picnics at designated sites around Llyn Alaw or Llyn Cefni Reservoir and Dam. Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve and Cemaes Harbour and Village are also considered family-friendly, offering wildlife spotting and scenic views.
Are there any historical sites near the lakes?
Yes, Llyn Cerrig Bach is a small, peaceful lake famous for the discovery of over 150 Iron Age metal objects in 1942, one of the most important finds of its kind in the British Isles. These objects are thought to have been left as offerings.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The area around Tref Alaw offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. Llyn Alaw itself has several miles of footpaths and serves as a starting point for one of Anglesey's main cycle trails.
When is the best time to visit for wildlife viewing?
For birdwatching, winter is excellent at Llyn Alaw for overwintering birds. If you're interested in seabird colonies, particularly terns, the best time to visit Cemlyn Bay Nature Reserve is typically from May to June when thousands of Sandwich, common, and Arctic terns nest on the islands.
Can I cycle around the lakes in Tref Alaw?
Yes, Llyn Alaw is a hub for cycling, serving as the starting point for one of Anglesey's four main cycle trails. These well-signed routes primarily follow country roads. You can find more cycling options in the Cycling around Tref Alaw guide.
What is special about Cemaes Harbour and Village?
Cemaes Harbour and Village holds the distinction of being the most northerly village in Wales. It offers scenic views and is a notable stop along various cycling routes, making it a popular spot for visitors.
Are there walking trails suitable for all abilities?
Llyn Alaw offers several miles of footpaths, though they do not fully circuit the lake. For a wider range of options, explore the Hiking around Tref Alaw guide, which includes trails of varying difficulties.
Most popular attractions around Tref Alaw
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