Top 8 Lakes around Chacewater
Best lakes around Chacewater offer a variety of natural and man-made water bodies within a reasonable distance of the village. The area is characterized by its historic mining landscape and diverse natural features, including flooded quarries and reservoirs. Visitors can explore tranquil woodlands, coastal paths, and elevated viewpoints. This region provides opportunities for watersports, walking, and observing local wildlife.
Best lakes around Chacewater
- The most popular lakes is Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool, a viewpoint that features a…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool
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Basset's Cove
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Portreath Harbour and Beach
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Stithians Reservoir Dam
Highlight • Monument
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Ralph's Cupboard
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
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Popular around Chacewater
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Breathtaking views. Especially when combined with the blooming heather!
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Worth climb to the cairn for the downhill section on the main access road. Then drop into single track round the back lanes of Carharrack. Sweet! :)
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Great view from the dam across the reservoir towards Carn Menellis
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Portreath is a a small coastal village with a very narrow harbour and sandy beach. Rather than fish, this port was used to import Welsh coal and export copper. The original loading ramp can still be seen and given the narrowness of the harbour, navigating it must have been very difficult and dangerous. There are several cafes and shops in Portreath if you are in need of refuelling and/or rehydrating.
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The 7.3 km long circular route takes you back to a time when Cornwall was covered by sea and then became a Europe-wide mountain range. The sedimentary rocks of this area around Portreath were deposited in a deep marine environment during the Devonian age (ca. 393 - 373 million years): Greywacken: Gray rock with fine to coarse grains (0.3 - 2 mm; 0.01 - 0.08 inch), consisting of quartz, feldspars and fragments of foreign rocks. In some cases, shiny/shimmering components can be seen (mica), the rocks form layers and banks. Siltstones: Light gray rock with fine grains (<0.063 mm; <0.002 inch) that are not visible to the naked eye. Layers can be recognized based on the color difference. Slate: Gray to black, sometimes slightly red to greenish colored rocks with very fine grains (<0.02 mm, <0.001 inch), the rocks appear foliated with very thin layers, often alternating with greywackes. The originally horizontal sedimentary layers of Cornwall were tectonically overprinted around 323 - 299 million years ago during the Variscan orogeny (mountain formation). During this time, the southern major continent Gondwana collided with the northern major continents Laurentia and Baltica as well as smaller continent fragments (terranes) such as Avalonia and Amorica. The orogeny ended approximately 270 million years ago with the formation of the supercontinent Pangea. Due to the pressure from the south, the sedimentary rocks were compressed, folded and internally transformed under increasing temperatures. This is how slates emerged from the original claystones. There are no deposits in the area for the period between the formation of the Devonian rocks until 3 million years ago. During the Ice Age 3 million years ago, the region of modern-day Cornwall lay in a tundra area south of the glaciers that covered the Northern Hemisphere. Periglacial deposits from this period can be observed on the cliffs.
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To the west of this bay, a rock wall protrudes into the bay and divides it. This wall is the result of long-term erosion, which led to the collapse of a former cave. The name Ralph’s Cupboard comes from a legend that the giant Ralph lived in this bay. This giant attacked the incoming ships and stored the recovered treasures in the cave, his closet. The eastern side of the bay shows a typical cliff with dark gray shales and greywackes at the lower end and periglacial deposits at the upper part of the cliff.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes around Chacewater for watersports?
For watersports enthusiasts, Stithians Lake is the premier destination. As the largest inland water in West Cornwall, it's known for being one of the windiest, making it ideal for windsurfing and sailing. You can also enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing. The lake also offers a children's play area and a café.
Are there any lakes near Chacewater suitable for family outings and accessible walks?
Yes, Tehidy Country Park Lake is an excellent choice for families. Located within the largest woodland in West Cornwall, it offers over 9 miles of paths and trails, including accessible routes around the lake suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. It's perfect for picnics, birdwatching, and gentle strolls, with a café and picnic area available.
Where can I go for wild swimming near Chacewater?
Hick's Quarry Pool, located near Carn Marth, is a popular spot for wild swimming. This flooded disused granite quarry offers a unique, natural setting for those looking to take a dip. You can also enjoy incredible views over the rural countryside from nearby Carn Marth.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes near Chacewater?
The area around Chacewater offers diverse natural features. You'll find large inland waters like Stithians Lake, tranquil woodlands surrounding Tehidy Country Park Lake, and unique flooded granite quarries such as Hick's Quarry Pool and the one at Kennall Vale. The region is also characterized by its historic mining landscape and elevated viewpoints offering expansive rural vistas.
Are there historical sites or unique landmarks near the lakes?
Yes, Kennall Vale Nature Reserve features a flooded granite quarry amidst the ruins of an abandoned gunpowder factory, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. You can explore walking trails, waterfalls, and moss-covered ruins from its industrial past. Additionally, the area around Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool is littered with disused mining works and quarries, reflecting the region's rich mining history.
What outdoor activities and routes are available near these lakes?
Beyond watersports, the area offers numerous outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on easy trails like the "Old Mining Chimney and Ruins" loop or the "Wheal Busy Smithy" loop. Cycling is also popular, with routes such as the "Redruth and Chasewater Railway Trail" for touring bicycles, or more challenging road cycling routes like the "Portreath Beach – Godrevy Heritage Coast loop." For more details on routes, you can explore the easy hikes around Chacewater or cycling guides.
Can I go fishing at any of the lakes near Chacewater?
Yes, Stithians Lake is a popular spot for fishing. It is regularly stocked with rainbow trout and also contains brown trout, making it a prime destination for fly fishing enthusiasts.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Chacewater?
Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse activities available, from watersports at Stithians Lake to tranquil walks at Tehidy Country Park. The stunning views from elevated points like Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool are highly appreciated, as are the unique historical elements found at places like Kennall Vale. The komoot community has shared over 15 photos and given more than 25 upvotes to these spots, highlighting their appeal.
Are there any coastal water features considered 'lakes' in this guide?
Yes, while primarily coastal, some features like Basset's Cove and Portreath Harbour and Beach are categorized as lake highlights in this guide due to their significant water presence and scenic value. Basset's Cove offers dramatic geological formations and sea views, while Portreath provides a picturesque coastal village experience with a narrow harbour and sandy beach.
Is there a good time of year to visit the lakes near Chacewater?
The lakes and surrounding areas offer beauty year-round. Spring is particularly enchanting at Tehidy Country Park, where the woods are carpeted with bluebells. For watersports, warmer months are generally preferred. Birdwatching can be rewarding in various seasons, especially at Stithians Lake. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
Are there facilities like cafes or campsites near the lakes?
Yes, Stithians Lake has a café serving local produce with lake views, as well as a campsite for those wishing to extend their stay. Tehidy Country Park also offers a café and picnic area near its South Drive entrance. Additionally, the coastal village of Portreath, which features a beach and harbour, has several cafes and shops for refreshments.
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