Distance: 1 mile – 12 miles
Duration: 30 minutes – 4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Route types: Out & Back and Circular
Location: Lake Vyrnwy, Powys
Near: Powys, North Wales
Waterfall Height: 100 meters
Type: Waterfall, Dam & Woodlands
Highest Elevation: 310 meters (1,017 ft)
Busyness Rating: 3 (plenty of room and places to explore)
Lake Vyrnwy, located in the Bala & River Dee region of North Wales, is known for its breathtaking scenery, serene landscapes, and diverse walking routes.
The area offers a perfect blend of woodland trails, waterfall walks, and routes around the stunning Lake Vyrnwy reservoir.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly paths, dog-friendly walks, or challenging hikes, Lake Vyrnwy provides routes for all levels. Along the way, enjoy wildlife sightings, visit historical landmarks, and rest at picturesque picnic areas.
Quick Facts
- Supplying Liverpool: Lake Vyrnwy was created in the late 19th century to supply drinking water to Liverpool. It remains a crucial source today, delivering water over 110 km (68 miles).
- Dog-Friendly Walks: Most trails around Lake Vyrnwy welcome dogs, with plenty of dog-friendly facilities.
- Waterfall Highlight: The Rhiwargor Waterfall is one of the most picturesque spots, accessible via a short hike.
- Complete Lake Walk: Walking around the entire Lake Vyrnwy reservoir is a popular 12-mile circular walk.
- Birdwatching Haven: The area is an RSPB reserve, ideal for spotting rare birds like peregrine falcons and ospreys.
Location and Accessibility
Lake Vyrnwy offers a range of parking options and public transport services, making it easily accessible for visitors. Whether you’re arriving by car or bus, several car parks provide convenient access to the most popular walking trails. For those relying on public transport, limited bus routes offer connections to nearby towns. The following sections provide specific information on parking fees, entry costs, and directions, helping you plan your visit efficiently.
Car Parking at Lake Vyrnwy
Parking fees at Lake Vyrnwy are set at £2 for up to 2 hours and £4 for all-day parking in the main car park near the visitor center and Artisans area.
RSPB members receive a 50% discount when displaying their membership card next to their ticket. For free parking, visitors can use the Rhiwargor Waterfall car park, Old Village car park, or other smaller lots around the lake, all of which provide easy access to popular walking routes such as the Giants of Vyrnwy Trail.
Costs & Entry at Lake Vyrnwy
Lake Vyrnwy walking trails are free to access, with no entry fees for exploring the trails or surrounding parkland.
Charges apply only for bike rentals and kayaking, which can be arranged through Bethania Adventure or the Lake Vyrnwy Hotel. Parking fees apply in the main car park, but several free parking options are available around the lake.
Directions & Public Transport to Lake Vyrnwy
By Car
Lake Vyrnwy can be reached via the A458 from Bala or the A495 from Oswestry. Follow signs to Llanwddyn village, close to the dam and visitor center, where parking is available.
By Train
The nearest train station is in Welshpool, approximately 17 miles from Lake Vyrnwy. Taxis or local buses provide transport from the station to the lake.
By Bus
Two bus routes service Lake Vyrnwy on Wednesdays:
- T82 bus runs from Lake Vyrnwy Dam to Oswestry, with 25 stops including Llanfyllin and Llangedwyn, taking approximately 65 minutes.
- B82 bus departs from Lake Vyrnwy Dam and travels to Oswestry, stopping at places like Abertridwr and Llanwddyn village.
Lake Vyrnwy Walks
Lake Vyrnwy offers a range of walking trails that suit all abilities, from gentle woodland paths to the popular 12-mile circular walk around the lake. Key routes include the Giants of Vyrnwy Trail, which takes you through impressive redwoods, and the Rhiwargor Waterfall Walk. Explore the tranquil scenery while discovering diverse wildlife and stunning viewpoints. Below are the most popular walks around Lake Vyrnwy.
Giants of Vyrnwy Trail
What You See: Majestic redwood trees, peaceful woodland, and scenic forest views
Walk Type: Circular
Elevation: 320 meters
Distance: 1 mile (1.6km)
Duration: 30-45 minutes
Level: Easy
The Giants of Vyrnwy Trail takes you through a remarkable grove of giant redwoods, making it a short but memorable walk.
This family-friendly route is well-marked and accessible, offering a tranquil forest setting. It’s a perfect trail for those with limited time or families with children. The trail starts and finishes near the visitor center where parking is available.
Blue Trail
What You See: Woodland paths, lakeside views and birdwatching opportunities.
Walk Type: Circular
Elevation: 350 meters
Distance: 4.5 miles (7.2km)
Duration: 2 – 2.5 hours
Level: Moderate
The Blue Trail is a moderate circular route that offers some of the best views of the lake and the surrounding woodlands.
It is well-suited for walkers looking for a slightly shorter alternative to the full circular route. The trail takes you along forested paths and open areas, making it a great choice for birdwatching. The trail starts at the visitor center, where you can also pick up a map of the area.
Rhiwargor Waterfall Walk
What You See: The stunning Rhiwargor Waterfall, riverside paths and serene woodlands.
Walk Type: Out & Back
Elevation: 400 meters
Distance: 2miles (3.2km)
Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
Level: Easy to Moderate
We are currently writing more information about this hike, watch this space.
Lake Vyrnwy Walking Routes Map
A Lake Vyrnwy walking routes map shows detailed paths around the reservoir, including trail lengths, starting points, and key landmarks. Walkers can use this map to easily navigate the circular walk, waterfall trails, and other scenic routes surrounding Lake Vyrnwy.
View Larger Map
Weather at Lake Vyrnwy Today
A Lake Vyrnwy weather today forecast gives real-time updates on the current temperature, rainfall chances, and wind conditions. Walkers can check today’s weather to plan their trails, ensuring they are prepared for conditions on the Lake Vyrnwy walks.
Overview of Lake Vrynwy
Lake Vyrnwy, set in the heart of Powys, offers diverse activities and attractions, from fishing and paddleboarding on the lake to birdwatching and scenic waterfall hikes. Below, discover everything Lake Vyrnwy has to offer, including water sports, wildlife observation points, and its iconic Rhiwargor Waterfall.
Fishing at Lake Vyrnwy
Lake Vyrnwy is a renowned destination for trout fishing, appealing to both beginners and experienced anglers.
The reservoir is well-stocked with rainbow trout, blue trout, and brown trout, ranging from 2lbs to 20lbs. Fishing permits are required and available at the Lake Vyrnwy Hotel, with prices starting from £15 for catch-and-release and £25 for catch-and-keep day permits. For newcomers, fly-fishing lessons can be arranged, and fishing gear, including rods and tackle, is available for hire at the hotel. The fishing season typically runs from March to October, making it a popular spot during warmer months.
Water Sports and Paddleboarding at Lake Vyrnwy
Lake Vyrnwy is an excellent site for a range of watersports, with paddleboarding being a standout activity. Bethania Adventure, located on the lake’s southwestern shore near the dam, offers rentals for paddleboards, kayaks, and sailing equipment.
Visitors can bring their own paddleboards or kayaks, though launching is permitted only at Bethania Adventure to ensure safe and managed access to the lake. For a full day of activities, bookings can be made by calling 01691 870615. Paddleboarding at Lake Vyrnwy provides a unique view of the lake’s surroundings, including sights of the Victorian dam and tranquil forests along the shoreline.
Birdwatching & Wildlife Observation at Lake Vyrnwy
Lake Vyrnwy is a top spot for birdwatching in North Wales, managed in collaboration with the RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds).
The lake features three well-positioned bird hides: one near the visitor center and cafe, another on the reservoir’s north shore, and a third near Rhiwargor Waterfall. Each hide offers a close-up view of local bird species, including pied flycatchers, peregrine falcons, redstarts, and siskins. The hides are designed to minimise disturbance, providing an ideal environment for photographers and birdwatchers alike. Seasonal tours, organised by local guides, focus on species like the black grouse in spring, and the RSPB provides information on recent sightings at each hide.
Rhiwargor Waterfall
Rhiwargor Waterfall at the northern tip of Lake Vyrnwy cascades over 100 feet in multiple stages, offering scenic views and a tranquil setting.
The waterfall is accessible via a short, level walk from Rhiwargor car park, making it ideal for families and casual walkers. Nearby, natural picnic spots and birdwatching opportunities, including sightings of woodpeckers and buzzards, enhance the experience for nature enthusiasts.
History of Lake Vyrnwy
Lake Vyrnwy’s history combines Victorian engineering, Liverpool’s quest for clean water, and local folklore. This section explores the lake’s role as Liverpool’s primary water supply, the impressive dam construction, the relocation of Llanwddyn village, and legends that continue to surround the area.
Lake Vyrnwy: Liverpool’s Lifeline for Clean Water
Lake Vyrnwy has supplied Liverpool with clean drinking water since the late 19th century.
Established after Liverpool’s Water Act in 1847 permitted the city to source water beyond its limits, Lake Vyrnwy became one of the most critical resources to meet Liverpool’s growing water demand. The reservoir collects water from a large catchment area and funnels it 68 miles to Liverpool via underground aqueducts, making it a vital component of the city’s water supply system.
The Engineering of Lake Vyrnwy Dam
The construction of the Lake Vyrnwy Dam, completed in 1892, was an extraordinary engineering achievement for its time.
Built from local stone, the dam stands 44 meters high and 357 meters long, making it the first large masonry dam in Britain. Its distinctive Gothic-style straining tower, located within the lake, filters the water before it begins its journey to Liverpool. This architectural marvel is now a celebrated landmark, symbolising the ingenuity of Victorian engineering.
The Displacement of Llanwddyn Village
The creation of Lake Vyrnwy required the relocation of the original village of Llanwddyn.
In order to flood the valley for the reservoir, villagers were moved to a new site nearby, where the “new” Llanwddyn was established. Today, the story of the sunken village is part of the lake’s folklore, with some locals recounting ghostly tales and claiming to hear the old church bells ring from beneath the water on quiet days.
Folklore and Legends of Lake Vyrnwy
Lake Vyrnwy holds a mystical allure, steeped in local legends and ghost stories. Some say the spirits of those displaced from Llanwddyn linger around the lake, especially on misty mornings. Other tales tell of eerie sounds that rise from the water, giving the lake a haunted reputation that intrigues both locals and visitors.
Flora & Fauna of Lake Vyrnwy
Lake Vyrnwy’s unique landscape supports diverse flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers alike. The lake’s surrounding forests, heathlands, and wetlands provide ideal habitats for numerous species, both rare and common.
Flora
- Native Woodlands: Dominated by oak, birch, and rowan trees, the woodlands around Lake Vyrnwy provide shelter for various plant species and help sustain the lake’s ecosystem.
- Heather and Gorse: Covering the heathlands around the lake, heather blooms in late summer, creating a vibrant purple landscape, while gorse adds splashes of yellow.
- Wildflowers: Bluebells, primroses, and foxgloves bloom in spring, carpeting the forest floor and attracting pollinators. The wetland areas are rich with water-loving plants like marsh marigolds and rushes.
- Mosses and Ferns: Common along shaded trails and damp areas, mosses and ferns thrive in the cool, moist environment, adding lush greenery to the landscape.
Fauna
- Birds: Lake Vyrnwy is renowned for birdwatching, with three RSPB bird hides offering sightings of species such as pied flycatchers, peregrine falcons, red kites, and the rare goshawk. Migratory birds visit in spring and autumn, adding to the lake’s bird diversity.
- Mammals: Foxes, badgers, and red squirrels are frequently spotted in the woodlands. Otters also inhabit the lake’s edges, particularly in quieter areas away from human activity.
- Insects and Butterflies: The diverse plant life supports a range of insects, including dragonflies, damselflies, and butterflies like the painted lady and small tortoiseshell.
- Fish: Lake Vyrnwy’s reservoir is home to species such as rainbow trout, blue trout, and brown trout, attracting anglers throughout the year.
What You Will Need for Lake Vyrnwy Walks
Lake Vyrnwy’s walking trails are well-maintained and accessible, making them suitable for most visitors without the need for extensive gear. Here’s what to bring:
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Trails are easy to moderate, so standard walking shoes or trainers are fine.
- Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Bring a waterproof jacket in case of sudden rain, as Welsh weather can be unpredictable.
- Water Bottle: Though there’s a café nearby, carrying a bottle for shorter trails is helpful.
- Camera or Smartphone: Perfect for capturing the scenic views, birdwatching spots, and the iconic dam.
With nearby parking and café facilities, Lake Vyrnwy is convenient for a day out without requiring heavy preparation, so you can focus on enjoying the natural surroundings.
Nearby Routes
FAQs
The best walks around Lake Vyrnwy include the Rhiwargor Waterfall Trail for scenic views and the Llanwddyn Sculpture Trail for an easy, family-friendly route near the lake. The Lake Vyrnwy Circular Walk covers the entire 12-mile perimeter, ideal for those looking to explore all of the lake’s beauty.
Yes, Lake Vyrnwy offers several family-friendly trails, such as the Sculpture Trail near Llanwddyn village, which is suitable for strollers, and the Rhiwargor Waterfall Walk, a shorter trail leading to beautiful falls. These routes offer easy terrain and scenic stops, perfect for families with children.
Yes, Lake Vyrnwy is a prime location for wildlife viewing. Walkers can spot various bird species like pied flycatchers, peregrine falcons, and redstarts from the RSPB bird hides. Red kites and buzzards are also common along the trails, especially near the lake’s forested areas.
Lake Vyrnwy walks offer scenic views of Rhiwargor Waterfall, panoramic lake vistas from elevated points, and sweeping views of the surrounding Berwyn Mountains. The view from the dam provides a particularly iconic sight, capturing the lake and the lush, wooded hills.
Guided walks around Lake Vyrnwy are available seasonally, often led by RSPB guides who focus on birdwatching and local wildlife observation. These tours provide insights into the area’s diverse ecosystems and are ideal for visitors interested in learning more about the local flora and fauna.
Final Thoughts
Lake Vyrnwy is a stunning destination with plenty of room to explore its natural beauty.
From the lake’s peaceful walking trails to scenic drives that take you right to the waterfall, it’s easy to enjoy at your own pace. With convenient parking spots, a cozy café, and ample wildlife watching opportunities, Lake Vyrnwy offers a relaxing day out surrounded by incredible views.
Written by Daniel Treasure
