Wales is home to some of the most stunning lakes in the UK—and many of them are open to paddleboarders, kayakers, and canoeists looking for adventure, tranquillity, or just a fun day on the water.
Before heading out, please note: most Welsh lakes are not covered under your Canoe Wales waterways licence. Launch fees or permits may apply, and access arrangements can change—so always check with local sources or official websites before your trip.
Disclaimer: While we do our best to keep this guide current, Môr Watersports (and original sources) cannot guarantee the accuracy of the details on the day you visit. Your decision to paddle is your own responsibility.
Beacons Reservoir (Near Brecon)
Nestled along the A470 in the Brecon Beacons, this picturesque reservoir is available for paddling—but only to organised groups through a specific access scheme.
-
Access: Organised groups only via the Brecon Beacons Reservoir Passport Scheme
-
Owner: Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water
-
Directions: LD3 8NL (approx. 1 mile north of the dam)
Keeper’s Pond (Near Abergavenny)
Also known as Forge Pond, this small reservoir boasts incredible views and easy water access.
-
Access: Walk-in from the car park
-
Facilities: Free parking
-
Postcode: NP4 9SR
Lake Vyrnwy (Near Bala)
A stunning, five-mile-long reservoir near Bala, perfect for a peaceful paddle.
-
Access: Launch from Bethania Watersports only (£5 fee)
-
Restrictions: Some zones closed off (e.g., around the dam and tower)
-
Contact: 01691 870615 / Email
Llandegfedd Reservoir (Near Pontypool)
A well-equipped water sports hub with rental options and good facilities.
-
Access: Self-launch permits (£10/day or £5/evening) for NGB members
-
Facilities: Watersport centre, café, toilets
-
Postcode: NP4 0SY (Sat Nav: NP4 0TA)
Llangorse Lake (Near Brecon)
The second-largest natural lake in Wales, ideal for a range of water activities.
-
Access: Permits from on-site shop or boat hut (£13.80/day)
-
Facilities: Parking, camping, toilets
-
Postcode: LD3 7TR
Llyn Clywedog (Near Llanidloes)
A vast, scenic reservoir with access restricted to members of the local sailing club.
-
Access: Members of Clywedog Sailing Club only
Llyn Geirionydd (Near Llanrwst)
Popular with wild swimmers and watersports lovers, this scenic lake features a small slipway and honesty box for launching.
-
Facilities: Parking, toilets, slipway
Llyn Gwynant (Near Beddgelert)
A favourite with activity groups, this beautiful lake offers day access for paddlers.
-
Access: Permits and launch via campsite (£5/day)
-
Postcode: LL55 4NW
Llyn Padarn (Llanberis)
A popular lake in the heart of Snowdonia, with stunning views and easy water access.
-
Facilities: Pontoon, toilets, car park
-
Contact: 01286 870892 / Email
Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake)
The largest natural lake in Wales and a magnet for paddlers of all kinds.
-
Access: Pay-and-display launch fee required
-
Postcode: LL23 7SR
Llyn Trawsfynydd
Larger than Bala Lake and rich in wildlife, this man-made reservoir is ideal for peaceful paddling—rigid craft only.
-
Access: £5 fee, pay at the café
-
Postcode: LL41 4DT
Llynau Mymbyr (Capel Curig)
Two lakes with epic Snowdon views, often used as a launch point to paddle down the Afon Llugwy.
-
Access: Arrange via Plas y Brenin
-
Facilities: Roadside parking available
Llys-y-Frân Lake (Near Haverfordwest)
Following a £4m revamp, this site now features great watersports and family-friendly facilities.
-
Access: Self-launch £10/day; call on the day after 9am
-
Facilities: Visitor centre, café, bike hire, changing rooms
Park in the Past (Near Mold)
A unique site that combines outdoor heritage, nature, and paddling on its 35-acre lake.
-
Access: Book online; buoyancy aids required
Lower Lliw Reservoir (Near Swansea)
A peaceful reservoir near Swansea where self-launching is available by pre-booking.
-
Access: Organised groups via Swansea Adventures
Pentwyn Reservoir (Near Merthyr Tydfil)
A quiet reservoir near Pontsticill, open only to registered group paddlers.
-
Access: Brecon Beacons Passport Scheme
-
Postcode: CF48 2UR
Pontsticill Reservoir
This larger lake is also part of the passport scheme and used by local sailing clubs.
-
Access: Organised groups only
-
Postcode: CF48 2UR
Swiss Valley / Lower Lliedi Reservoir (Llanelli)
A wildlife-rich lake with a new community-managed launch system.
-
Access: £5 per day. Book via Live Free Adventures
-
Postcode: SA15 4PE (approach from the east)
Usk Reservoir (Near Sennybridge)
A remote paddling location requiring a group passport scheme for access.
-
Postcode: LD3 8YF
Final Tips Before You Go
-
Always wear a buoyancy aid
-
Check local weather and water conditions
-
Be mindful of access zones and restricted areas
-
Respect nature and leave no trace
For more paddling gear, wetsuits, or toys for a day on the water, visit us at Môr Watersports, right by the sea in Rhos on Sea, North Wales.