Top 5 Lakes around Lydbrook
Best lakes around Lydbrook are situated within the Forest of Dean, an area known for its ancient woodlands and tranquil natural settings. The region features several notable lakes and ponds that serve as important habitats for wildlife. These bodies of water are integrated into the forest landscape, providing locations for outdoor activities and nature observation. The area's geography supports diverse ecosystems, making it a destination for those seeking forest and waterside experiences.
Best lakes around Lydbrook
- The most popular lakes…
Last updated: June 2, 2026
Cannop Ponds
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View of Cannop Ponds
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Soudley Ponds
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Mallards Pike Lake
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Mallards Pike Lake
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Tips from the Community
This place is definitely worth a visit. It is a beautiful area with seating available and a refreshments van on-site.
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The final mile. You can push hard as its downhill, to get that PB. The last sign (&cow bell ringer) says 200 metres to go. 50m up & a right hand curve, just empty the tank as it's shorter than it appears. Great course, volunteer's, café, setting. Unsure if raining?
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Nice meeting hub while out exploring FOD plenty of picnic benches, cafe and a great walking loop of the pond, both lower and upper sections.
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Nice meeting hub while out exploring FOD plenty of picnic benches, cafe and a great walking loop of the pond, both lower and upper sections.
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Nice steady firetrack climb alongside Mallards Pike. Plenty of single track trails from the main track if you fancy more of a challenge either up or downhill.
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Beautiful route in the Forest of Dean. What is very exciting is the number of children and young people who, no matter what day of the week, spend time in the free trail park after school. Even parking is free. And there is good food there too. Simply different!
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Great place to stop take a break from biking. Benches for snacks and a great snack shop during summer season.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes around Lydbrook for visitors?
Visitors frequently enjoy Cannop Ponds and Mallards Pike Lake. Cannop Ponds is known for its abundant bird life and tranquil atmosphere, while Mallards Pike Lake offers a picturesque setting with various outdoor activities.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Lydbrook?
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Cannop Ponds, Mallards Pike Lake, and Soudley Ponds are all categorized as family-friendly. Mallards Pike Lake even features a Gruffalo Orienteering course and a dedicated dog dip area, making it great for all family members.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The lakes around Lydbrook, particularly Mallards Pike Lake and Cannop Ponds, are hubs for outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, and running on various trails. Mallards Pike also offers adventure sports like Go Ape high ropes and Forest Segway. During summer, the lower lake at Mallards Pike can be booked for canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or raft building. For more structured routes, explore the cycling, running, and MTB trails in the area.
Are there good walking trails around the lakes?
Absolutely. Both Mallards Pike Lake and Cannop Ponds offer popular walking and cycling paths. Mallards Pike has routes of varying lengths (2km, 3km, 5km, 10km), some suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Soudley Ponds also features peaceful, surfaced pondside paths and offers climbs to ridgelines with glorious forest views.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes are important habitats for wildlife. At Cannop Ponds, you can often spot Mandarin ducks and mute swans. The area is also home to diverse birdlife, including reed warblers, making it excellent for birdwatching, especially near the Cannop Bridge Marsh nature reserve.
Are there facilities like parking and cafes near the lakes?
Yes, both Mallards Pike Lake and Cannop Ponds have good facilities. Mallards Pike offers well-laid-out parking, toilets, and a lakeside cafe. Cannop Ponds has a large car park, information boards, and picnic tables, with an ice cream van often present. Soudley Ponds also has a cafe overlooking the mill pond.
Can I go fishing in the lakes around Lydbrook?
Yes, Cannop Ponds is particularly known for fishing. It is considered one of the best coarse fishing lakes in Gloucestershire, with fishing managed by the Yorkley Angling Club.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes?
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery, active wildlife, and opportunities for water sports at Mallards Pike. Autumn brings stunning fall foliage to the surrounding woodlands, while winter provides tranquil, crisp walks. The area is generally pleasant for outdoor activities throughout the year.
Are the lakes accessible for pushchairs or wheelchairs?
Some paths around Mallards Pike Lake are suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, making it an accessible option for many visitors. The pondside paths at Soudley Ponds are also surfaced and easy to navigate.
Do any of the lakes have historical significance?
Yes, Cannop Ponds has an interesting history. The lower pond was created in 1825 to supply water to a nearby ironworks. The area was also once the site of the Severn and Wye Railway, which has since been transformed into a rich wildlife habitat.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near Lydbrook?
Visitors frequently highlight the peaceful atmosphere, abundant bird life, and the variety of walking and cycling routes. The presence of cafes and picnic spots, along with family-friendly amenities like the Gruffalo trail at Mallards Pike Lake, also contribute to a highly enjoyable experience.
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