Top 6 Lakes around St. Mabyn
Best lakes around St. Mabyn are primarily found in the surrounding Cornwall area, particularly on Bodmin Moor. This region offers a diverse natural landscape with various lakes and reservoirs. These bodies of water provide opportunities for activities such as walking, watersports, and wildlife observation. The area's terrain includes uplands and ancient woodlands.
Best lakes around St. Mabyn
- The most popular lakes is Port Quin Cove, a beach that is a serene and unspoiled spot with a pleasant beach hidden…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Port Quin Cove
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Port Isaac
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The Camel Trail
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Colliford Lake
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There are plentiful picnic spots alongside the lake, but watch out for ponies roaming …
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Breney Common Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
Anyone interested in learning more about the CAMEL TRAIL (whether as a hiker or cyclist) can visit the following official website: =>> https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/environment/countryside/cycle-routes-and-trails/the-camel-trail/
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Nice run, sometimes narrow paths for a trail run but beautiful route!
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Beautiful hike well worth the effort and experience. It’s called the roller coaster for a reason 😁
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Very nice cycle path along the River Camel
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The origins of Port Isaac are likely Celtic and the development of the town can be roughly divided into three phases. Through the Middle Ages and up to the coming of the railways, Port Isaac was a thriving port serving the area inland. During the Tudor period the harbour was dredged, a good illustration of its importance. Once goods from locations further inland were better served by the North Cornwall Railway, the economy of the port relied on pilchard fishing, probably a centuries-old industry. However the pilchard shoals began to decline, and after World War I tourism became the mainstay of the economy.
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A certain sadness surrounds Port Quin. In the 19th century all the men from the small fishing port were lost at sea. The women and children who lived in the village abandoned their homes presumably due to having the the culture of the time meaning they were relient on the men's incomes. Port Quin is sometimes known as 'the village that died'.
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Made famous by the popular TV series, Doc Martin, Port Isaac is quaint fishing village in a sheltered part of Cornwall's rugged coast. It is also home to the Sea Shanty group 'Fisherman's Friends' and the movie about the singers was filmed here too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around St. Mabyn?
The area around St. Mabyn, particularly on Bodmin Moor, features a variety of lakes including large inland lakes like Colliford Lake, reservoirs such as Siblyback Lake and Crowdy Reservoir, and smaller quarry lakes like the one at Cornish Tipi Holidays Campsite & Lake. These offer diverse experiences from wildlife watching to watersports.
What wildlife can be observed at the lakes near St. Mabyn?
The lakes are rich in wildlife. Colliford Lake is excellent for birdwatching, with species like goldeneye, golden plover, lapwing, snipe, and Great Crested Grebes in winter, and swifts, swallows, and martins in summer. Crowdy Reservoir is known for starling murmurations. Breney Common Nature Reserve, a wetland and heathland site, supports various dragonfly and damselfly species.
Are there walking trails around the lakes near St. Mabyn?
Yes, there are several walking opportunities. Colliford Lake offers three signposted walks ranging from one to two miles. Siblyback Lake features a 5km circular trail ideal for walking and cycling. For more options, you can explore easy hikes around St. Mabyn, which include routes like the 'Snail's Pace Cafe – De Lank River Bridge loop'.
Can I do watersports on the lakes in the St. Mabyn area?
Siblyback Lake is a popular spot for watersports, offering kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing, with equipment available for hire. In contrast, watersports are not permitted at Colliford Lake, making it a more peaceful area for nature observation.
Are there fishing opportunities at the lakes near St. Mabyn?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Anglers can fish from the banks of Colliford Lake with a permit. Siblyback Lake offers brown and rainbow trout fishing. Crowdy Reservoir also provides free fishing. Additionally, Waterside Fisheries Cornwall and East Rose Farm offer private fishing lakes stocked with various fish.
Are the lakes around St. Mabyn suitable for families?
Many lakes are family-friendly. Siblyback Lake has a children's play area and a café, along with a 5km circular trail suitable for walking and cycling. Colliford Lake offers plentiful picnic spots. The Cornish Tipi Holidays Campsite & Lake allows swimming, fishing, and boating in its disused quarry lake.
Are the walking trails around the lakes dog-friendly?
While specific dog policies vary by location, many outdoor areas around the lakes on Bodmin Moor are generally dog-friendly, especially on leads. Always check local signage for any restrictions, particularly in nature reserves or areas with livestock, such as around Colliford Lake where ponies roam free.
What amenities are available at the lakes near St. Mabyn?
Siblyback Lake offers a campsite, children's play area, and a café. The Cornish Tipi Holidays Campsite & Lake features a café called the Gastropod, along with camping and glamping facilities. Colliford Lake has numerous picnic spots.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near St. Mabyn?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Summer is ideal for watersports at Siblyback Lake and general outdoor activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and birdwatching. Winter can be a good time for spotting specific bird species at Colliford Lake and witnessing starling murmurations at Crowdy Reservoir.
Are there cycling routes around the lakes?
Yes, Siblyback Lake has a 5km circular trail suitable for cycling. For more extensive cycling, you can explore road cycling routes around St. Mabyn, which include routes like the 'Padstow Harbour – Iron Bridge on the Camel Trail loop'.
What historical sites are near the lakes?
While the lakes themselves are natural features, the nearby area is rich in history. Port Isaac, a historical fishing village, is a short distance away and known for its quaint charm. Port Quin Cove also has a unique history, known as 'the village that died'.
Can I go wild swimming in any of the lakes?
The disused quarry lake at Cornish Tipi Holidays Campsite & Lake explicitly allows campers to swim in its waters. For other lakes, always check local regulations and safety guidelines before considering wild swimming, as conditions and permissions can vary.
What makes Colliford Lake unique compared to other lakes in the area?
Colliford Lake is Cornwall's largest inland lake, covering approximately 900 acres. It is particularly noted for its significant wildlife, especially birdwatching, and its peaceful atmosphere as watersports are not permitted. It's also situated within a National Landscape, highlighting its ecological importance.
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