Best lakes around Coedffranc are found within nearby parklands, offering diverse water features and recreational opportunities. The region, situated in South Wales, provides access to both historical estates and restored woodlands. These areas feature a variety of lakes, ponds, and waterfalls, contributing to the natural landscape. Visitors can explore settings ranging from tranquil reservoirs to engineered cascades.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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Brombil Reservoir, often referred to in the context of water supply and environmental management, is located in the vicinity of the village of Brombil in Wales. Here are some key points about it: Key Features: Purpose: The reservoir primarily serves as a water supply source for local communities and industries. It plays a role in managing water resources in the region. Environmental Significance: Like many reservoirs, it also contributes to local ecosystems, providing habitats for various wildlife species. Recreation: Reservoirs often offer opportunities for outdoor activities, such as walking, birdwatching, and fishing, although specific regulations may apply. Management: The reservoir may be managed by local water authorities or environmental agencies to ensure water quality and sustainable usage.
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Nice gravel track down to the reservoir with lovely views. Track down can get muddy but good fun. Do-able on a gravel bike
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Cwmwernderi Reservoir, also known as The Blue Pool is a pretty and secluded spot with beautiful turquoise water on the right day.
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Brombil reservoir is absolutely a hidden gem in the valleys of Margam. The sheltered, tranquil aquamarine waters offers the kind of scene that you might associate with the glacial lakes of the Italian Dolomites rather than the nearby Port Talbot steel works that most people picture when thinking of this area. Originally the site of a colliery supplying the nearby copper works at Taibach. After the colliery was closed mine was then flooded. The reservoir is over 100ft deep.
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Llewellyn Bridge is a Victorian stone-bridge that was reconstructed in 2013. Close-by is the iconic waterfall and Penllergare Upper Lake.
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Penllergare’s iconic waterfall is a manmade feature constructed on the River Llan to provide an ornamental lake.
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Easy walking along the Eastern and Southern edges of the reservoir, courtesy of the Gower Way (a 35-mile path linking Penller Castell to Rhossili if you fancy stretching your legs a little further). Fantastic views.
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No actual location to park your vehicle at so be aware you could be parking on someone property to that street/estate. But follow the paths through a gate and easy enough up.. I MEAN IT This has to be seen to be believed!! Utterly stunning. Up over a shrub-covered hilltop, you find yourself peering down at a pristine body of turquoise-blue water. Surrounded by dense fir trees and rolling hills, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in middle of a Scandinavian forest, or perhaps somewhere in New Zealand. You’re not. This is the BROMBIL reservoir in the valleys of Margam, south Wales. The reservoir is a flooded colliery (coal mine) and has turned that bright shade of blue because of algae. Catch it in the right light and it almost seems to glow. The UK doesn’t have many glacial lakes, but Brombil does a damn good impression of one. With its rich turquoise hue and secluded surroundings, But though the 100-foot-deep reservoir might look very nice for a dip, be wary. The cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) that colour the water are dangerous to dogs, and they can also cause rashes and gastrointestinal issues in humans. It’s best to leave any swimming to the nearby beach at Port Talbot. Brombil's History There was once a colliery at Brombil which was owned by Vivian & Sons of Taibach. Both Brombil Colliery & Morfa Colliery were owned by this company. These collieries supplied the coal needed for the Copper Works at Taibach. Small coal levels were opened in Cwm-yr-Afr & Cwm Brombil between 1777 and 1780. The coal produced was conveyed to Taibach in carts. Circa 1814 another small level was opened in the Brombil Valley to help the Goytre Level. As the same coal seam was worked in Brombil as it was in Goytre the miners worked to meet each other. Eventually the Brombil acted as an airway for the Goytre Level, at this time the coal extracted from here wa carried along the main road to the Copper works in Taibach. The Brombil Colliery's output was large enough not only to keep the works operational but sufficient enough to allow thousands of tons to be exported to Ireland and other locations. Mr Edward Daniel was the manager of Brombil Colliery at the time of its closure c.1880 when it was listed as "Not Working."
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You'll find a variety of natural and engineered features. For instance, Penllergare Waterfall is a 19th-century engineering masterpiece with water cascading over masonry. Penllergare Valley Woods also features two main lakes and diverse woodland. Gnoll Country Park offers several ponds and lakes, including the Great Pond, which is a hub for aquatic life and wildfowl. The Lliw Reservoirs are set amidst stunning mountain scenery, supporting various wildlife habitats.
Yes, several locations are great for families. Penllergare Valley Woods offers peaceful walks and a Woodland Coffee Shop, and is dog-friendly. Gnoll Country Park provides extensive woodlands, open grassy areas, and a new visitor center with a café. Both Brombil Reservoir and Upper Lliw Reservoir are also listed as family-friendly highlights.
Penllergare Valley Woods is a restored Victorian paradise, once owned by the Dillwyn Llewelyn family, featuring historical lakes and the engineered Penllergare Waterfall. Gnoll Country Park is a historic estate with remnants of a grand residence and cascades currently undergoing restoration. Brombil Reservoir was originally a colliery site before being flooded.
The areas around Coedffranc offer various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the Gower Way near Upper Lliw Reservoir, or explore the extensive paths in Penllergare Valley Woods and Gnoll Country Park. For more structured routes, consider exploring the hiking routes around Coedffranc, including easy options like the 'Reservoir Pond – Cwm Llwyd Lake loop from Briton Ferry'. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails like the 'Big Dipper – Penhydd Trail' accessible from the MTB Trails around Coedffranc guide.
Yes, there are several easy walking options. The eastern and southern edges of Upper Lliw Reservoir offer easy walking along the Gower Way. Gnoll Country Park has extensive woodlands and open areas suitable for leisurely strolls. Penllergare Valley Woods features seven miles of peaceful walks. For more specific easy routes, check out the easy hikes around Coedffranc, which includes routes like the 'Reservoir Pond – Cwm Llwyd Lake loop'.
Brombil Reservoir is often described as a 'hidden gem' with tranquil aquamarine waters. Cwmwernderi Reservoir (The Blue Pool) is also known as a pretty and secluded spot with beautiful turquoise water. Mosshouse Lake in Gnoll Country Park is described as more quiet and peaceful, surrounded by birch and willow woodland.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. Penllergare Valley Woods has a Woodland Coffee Shop. Gnoll Country Park features a new visitor center with a café and views across the lake. There is also a cafe in the car park at Upper Lliw Reservoir, though it only takes cash.
The best time depends on what you want to experience. In autumn, you might spot salmon attempting to jump the Penllergare Waterfall to spawn upstream. Spring is excellent for seeing frogspawn in the Great Pond at Gnoll Country Park, and young frogs in summer. Warmer summer evenings are ideal for observing bats feeding above the water at Gnoll. Generally, spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walks and enjoying the greenery, while autumn brings vibrant foliage.
Yes, Penllergare Valley Woods is dog-friendly, offering plenty of space for walks. Gnoll Country Park is also generally welcoming to dogs, with extensive grounds to explore. Always ensure dogs are kept under control and follow any local signage regarding leads or restricted areas.
The areas are rich in wildlife. Penllergare Valley Woods is teeming with kingfishers, buzzards, red kites, bats, foxes, and otters. At Gnoll Country Park, the Great Pond attracts various wildfowl like Mute Swans, Moorhens, Coots, Mallards, and Tufted Ducks, and bats feed above the water. The Lliw Reservoirs support diverse habitats, and birdwatchers might spot Peregrine, Kestrel, Raven, Wheatear, Meadow Pipit, Skylark, Whinchat, Red Kite, and Curlew.
At Lower Lliw Reservoir, there is an accessible path to the south that leads all the way to the Upper Reservoir. Gnoll Country Park provides six accessible angling platforms at Gnoll Fishpond and Lower Pond. While many paths in Penllergare Valley Woods and Gnoll Country Park are generally well-maintained, specific accessibility details for all trails should be checked locally.
Gnoll Country Park has a new visitor center with parking facilities. At Upper Lliw Reservoir, there is a car park with a cafe. For Brombil Reservoir, visitors note there isn't an actual location to park directly at the reservoir, so it's advised to park carefully and walk up through the estate.


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