Top 9 Lakes around Cardinham
Best lakes around Cardinham are situated within the natural landscape of Bodmin Moor, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Cornwall. The region features a mix of reservoirs and smaller fishing lakes, offering diverse outdoor activities. Cardinham itself is known for its woods and streams, with nearby lakes providing additional recreational opportunities. The area is characterized by its rural setting and natural attractions.
Best lakes around Cardinham
- The most popular lakes is Sibleyback Reservoir Circular Trail, a forest trail that offers a traffic-free gravel track around Sibleyback Reservoir. This 5 km trail is suitable for pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchairs, and pushchairs, passing the Siblyback Dam and woodlands.
- Another must-see spot is Colliford Lake, a viewpoint and the largest lake in Cornwall. Watersports are not permitted here, contributing to a peaceful environment, though fly fishers can be seen seeking brown trout.
- Visitors also love Siblyback Dam, a man-made monument that created the Siblyback Reservoir. Built in 1968, it holds 3 billion litres of water and provides drinking water while topping up the River Fowey.
- Cardinham is known for reservoirs, fishing lakes, and lakes with watersports and trails. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from active watersport hubs to tranquil fishing spots.
- The lakes around Cardinham are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 40 upvotes and 18 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Siblyback Dam
Highlight • Lake
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Sibleyback Reservoir Circular Trail
Highlight • Forest
The 3 mile (5 km) trail is also suitable for adaptive cycles, wheelchairs and pushchairs, and takes in both the Sibleyback Dam and idyllic woodlands.
Wildlife lovers will be thrilled, as there's often plenty to see on and near the water, as well as a bird hide to hunker down in to watch.
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Colliford Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
There are plentiful picnic spots alongside the lake, but watch out for ponies roaming free who might steal a sandwich.
Watersports aren't allowed here which makes for a peaceful area, but you may spot a fly fisher seeking out an elusive brown trout.
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Olive & Co Café at Siblyback Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Breney Common Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
Siblyback Lake is a reservoir on the edge of Bodmin Moor. The dam blocks a small tributary of the River Fowey.
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On the shore of Siblyback Lake sits Olive & Co. Open for breakfast and lunch it also serves teas, coffees and cakes, including vegan and gluten free options. Watching over the calm waters of the reservoir, sitting and enjoying a brew or something to eat makes a lovely end to a run.
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The dam was built in 1968 to create the reservoir which provides drinking water and tops up the water levels of the River Fowey during the dry months. Once a small tributary of the River Fowey, Siblyback Lake now holds 3 billion litres of water.
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Breney Common is an important wetland, open water and dry heathland site designated as a SSSI and nature reserve. Historically it was a tin mining area which left the depressions and landforms which then became ponds and ditches. There are a wide variety of plants and animals here, the area supports several dragonfly and damselfly species.
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Great selection of vegan friendly options here. My partner is lactose intolerant and it's great to have more options than a paltry bland flapjack available.
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On the shore of Siblyback Lake sits Olive & Co. Open for breakfast and lunch it also serves teas, coffees and cakes. Watching over the calm waters of the reservoir, sitting and enjoying a brew or something to eat makes a lovely end to a hike.
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The dam was built in 1968 to create this reservoir which provides drinking water and tops up the water levels of the River Fowey during the dry months. Once a small tributary of the River Fowey, the lake now holds 3 billion litres of water.
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Enjoy this traffic-free gravel track around Sibleyback Reservoir that's designed with pedestrians and cyclists in mind. The 3 mile (5 km) trail is also suitable for adaptive cycles, wheelchairs and pushchairs, and takes in both the Sibleyback Dam and idyllic woodlands. Wildlife lovers will be thrilled, as there's often plenty to see on and near the water, as well as a bird hide to hunker down in to watch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for walking and cycling near Cardinham?
For walking and cycling, Sibleyback Reservoir Circular Trail is highly recommended. It offers a 5 km (3.2 miles) traffic-free gravel track suitable for pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchairs, and pushchairs, passing the Siblyback Dam and woodlands. Siblyback Lake itself is a popular destination for these activities.
Are there family-friendly lakes and activities around Cardinham?
Yes, Siblyback Lake is very family-friendly, offering a children's play area, ample picnic space, and a café. The 5 km circular trail around Siblyback Lake is also suitable for pushchairs. Colliford Lake also has plentiful picnic spots.
Which lakes offer watersports near Cardinham?
Siblyback Lake is the primary hub for watersports, including kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and sailing. Equipment hire is available on-site, typically from May to September. Watersports are not permitted at Colliford Lake, making it a more tranquil spot.
Where can I go fishing around Cardinham?
Both Siblyback Lake and Cardinham Lake are known for fishing. Siblyback Lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout and has resident brown trout, operating on a catch-and-release basis with barbless hooks. Cardinham Lake is primarily a fishing spot, with anglers often using apps for local conditions.
What natural attractions and wildlife can I spot near the lakes?
The lakes and surrounding areas offer diverse wildlife. Siblyback Lake and its woodlands are great for bird watching, with a dedicated bird hide. Breney Common Nature Reserve, a wetland and dry heathland site, is important for a wide variety of plants and animals, including several dragonfly and damselfly species. You might also spot ponies roaming free near Colliford Lake.
Are there accessible trails around the lakes near Cardinham?
Yes, the 5 km circular trail around Sibleyback Reservoir is designed to be accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs, making it a great option for visitors with varying mobility needs.
Are there cafes or amenities near the lakes?
Yes, Olive & Co Café at Siblyback Lake is located on the shore, offering breakfast, lunch, teas, coffees, and cakes, including vegan and gluten-free options. Cardinham Woods, while not a lake itself, also has an on-site café.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Cardinham?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. For watersports, the activity center at Siblyback Lake is typically open from May to September. The area is also part of an International Dark Sky Landscape, making it excellent for stargazing, especially on clear nights.
What kind of cycling routes are available near the lakes?
Beyond the circular trail at Siblyback, the wider Cardinham area offers various cycling opportunities. You can find routes for touring bicycles, gravel biking, and mountain biking. For more details, explore guides like Cycling around Cardinham, Gravel biking around Cardinham, and MTB Trails around Cardinham.
What is the history behind Siblyback Dam?
The Siblyback Dam was built in 1968 to create the Siblyback Reservoir. This man-made monument holds 3 billion litres of water, providing drinking water and helping to maintain the water levels of the River Fowey during dry periods.
Can I camp near the lakes in Cardinham?
Yes, Siblyback Lake offers a family-friendly campsite with options for electric and non-electric pitches for tents and motorhomes, equipped with modern facilities.
What makes Colliford Lake unique?
Colliford Lake is the largest lake in Cornwall. It's known for its peaceful environment as watersports are not permitted, though fly fishers can often be seen seeking brown trout. The road passing by provides superb views, and there are many picnic spots.
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