Best lakes around Tylorstown are situated within the Rhondda Valley, a region characterized by its industrial past now transformed into diverse natural landscapes. The area features several lakes and reservoirs, many integrated into country parks developed from former coal mining sites. These locations offer opportunities for outdoor activities and showcase varied natural features. The surrounding areas provide access to both man-made reservoirs and lakes within reclaimed parklands.
Last updated: July 27, 2026
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The water here is stunning in the sunlight. A good place to take a few moments to rest the legs.
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Dare Valley Country Park has a visitor centre and cafe, check opening times before relying on facilities.Dare Valley Country Park has a visitor centre and cafe, check opening times before relying on facilities.
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Lluest-wen Reservoir was constructed in 1898, but came to national attention in 1969 when a major leak caused an evacuation of residents down-valley while emergency repair work was carried out. Back in 1929 the place set a maximum daily rainfall record for Wales, with 211mm of rain recorded. You have been warned!
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Lluest-wen Reservoir was constructed in 1898, but came to national attention in 1969 when a major leak caused an evacuation of residents down-valley while emergency repair work was carried out. Back in 1929 the place set a maximum daily rainfall record for Wales, with 211mm of rain recorded. You have been warned!
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Dare Valley Country Park has a visitor centre and cafe, check opening times before relying on facilities. The paths can be wet and boggy at times, and if you're following the Penrhiwllech trail over the plateau of Tarren y Bwlfa, be aware of cliff edges!
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Cwm Clydach Countryside Park is an oasis of calm for wildlife with stunning views that has been created from the blackened scar of a coal mine. Walking alongside the lakes offers the chance to spot Kingfishers, herons, butterflies, newts and more. The two lakes are referred to as the “top lake” and “bottom lake” and there are also waterfalls. For refreshments, there is an on-site cafe.
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Taff Bargoed country park is made from what used to be 3 coal mines: Deep Navigation (1879-1991), Taff Merthyr (1926-1993), and Trelewis (1954-1993).
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Great route across from the rhigos towards afan
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The lakes around Tylorstown offer diverse natural features. At Cwm Clydach Countryside Park, you can find two lakes, waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife like Kingfishers, herons, butterflies, and newts. Dare Valley Country Park also provides natural surroundings for walking, while Lluest-wen Reservoir features a notable dam wall and is surrounded by moorland.
Yes, both Cwm Clydach Countryside Park and Dare Valley Country Park are excellent choices for families. Cwm Clydach offers easy walks alongside its lakes and waterfalls, with an on-site cafe. Dare Valley also features a lake, visitor centre, and cafe, making them both convenient and enjoyable for family outings.
You can find various walking opportunities around the lakes. Cwm Clydach Countryside Park has trails alongside its 'top lake' and 'bottom lake'. At Dare Valley Country Park, there are paths to explore, though some can be wet or boggy. For more options, check out the Easy hikes around Tylorstown guide, which includes routes like the Clydach Lakes loop.
Yes, the area around Lluest-wen Reservoir and Wind Farm is particularly known for its network of gravel forest roads, ideal for gravel biking and staying off tarmac. For more cycling and mountain biking routes, explore the Cycling around Tylorstown and MTB Trails around Tylorstown guides.
Lluest-wen Reservoir, constructed in 1898, has a notable history, including a major leak in 1969 that led to evacuations and holding the record for maximum daily rainfall in Wales in 1929. Additionally, parks like Cwm Clydach Countryside Park and Taff Bargoed Country Park were created from former coal mining sites, transforming industrial landscapes into recreational green spaces.
Yes, both Cwm Clydach Countryside Park and Dare Valley Country Park feature on-site cafes for refreshments. Dare Valley also has a visitor centre. It's always a good idea to check opening times before your visit.
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but conditions vary seasonally. While gravel roads around Lluest-wen Reservoir are great in the sun, they can be challenging with strong winds. Paths at Dare Valley Country Park can be wet and boggy at times, so appropriate footwear is recommended, especially during wetter months. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for wildlife spotting and walks.
Many of the trails in the country parks and around the reservoirs are dog-friendly, offering great opportunities for walks with your canine companion. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife or near livestock, and follow any local signage regarding dog access.
Yes, parking facilities are generally available at the main country parks. For instance, Cwm Clydach Countryside Park and Dare Valley Country Park have designated parking areas for visitors.
Trails vary in difficulty. Many walks around the lakes in Cwm Clydach Countryside Park are considered easy and suitable for families. However, some paths, like parts of the Penrhiwllech trail over the plateau of Tarren y Bwlfa near Dare Valley, can have cliff edges and require caution. Gravel roads around Lluest-wen Reservoir offer intermediate cycling challenges. Always check route details for specific difficulty grades.
Yes, Cwm Clydach Countryside Park is noted for its stunning views. The reclaimed industrial landscapes of the region often provide elevated positions offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and water bodies.


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