Top 11 Lakes around Llangattock
Best lakes around Llangattock are found within the Brecon Beacons National Park, offering a diverse range of water bodies. The area features unique mountain pools, historic canals, and man-made reservoirs, set amidst a landscape of hills and valleys. These natural and engineered features contribute to the region's geographic character and provide varied outdoor experiences. Llangattock serves as a gateway to exploring these aquatic environments and their surrounding trails.
Best lakes around Llangattock
- The most popular lakes is Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond), a natural monument that offers views across the Usk Valley towards the Sugar Loaf and Black Mountains. It is a popular site for picnics and wildlife observation within the Blaenavon World Heritage Site.
- Another must-see spot is The Punchbowl Lake, an other natural feature. This picturesque man-made lake is situated within a wooded glacial cwm, providing a serene spot for rest or a picnic when hiking The Blorenge.
- Visitors also love Talybont Reservoir, a man-made reservoir. Completed in 1939, it is the largest reservoir in the Brecon Beacons and is surrounded by trails and forest tracks, offering scenic views.
- Llangattock is known for its variety of water bodies, including mountain pools, historic canals, and large reservoirs. Visitors can explore natural glacial cwm lakes and significant man-made water features.
- The lakes around Llangattock are appreciated by the komoot community, with 38 upvotes and 32 photos shared by users.
Last updated: September 30, 2026
Tor y Foel Summit
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Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond)
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The Punchbowl Lake
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Talybont Reservoir Gravel Climb
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Devil's Punchbowl Pond
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Tips from the Community
Easy walk, bit rocky at the top, very enjoyable walk
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Keeper’s Pond is an amazing pond, outstanding beauty with great views of the Usk valley 🤩
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I have been coming up here now for about forty years. There are a variety of routes to here, but each one brings you to this one spot. These lumps of stone and the views are drop-dead gorgeous. Top it off with a visit to the pub afterwards, and it's a good day out. It's also a good run—before you get to the pub, of course!
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A fantastic long, slightly downhill gravel stretch high above Talybont Reservoir, this trail delivers both in terms of adrenaline and views! The track is wide and mostly quiet, though the gravel can be loose and a bit chunky in sections, so a gravel bike, sturdy tourer or mountain bike is best.
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Nice little pond, good place to park to do the circular route of Blorenge.
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Lovely little pond with an island in the middle.
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I'm a fit 66 year old and for me this was a tough climb up from Llanfoist, but so worth it. Very stony and uneven underfoot and there are several stiles to climb over.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes and water bodies around Llangattock?
The most popular water bodies include Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond), known for its views and picnics, and Talybont Reservoir, the largest reservoir in the Brecon Beacons with extensive trails. The picturesque The Punchbowl Lake is also a favorite for its serene setting.
Are there any unique or hidden gem lakes near Llangattock?
Yes, Pwll Gwy-rhoc, also known as the Witches Pool, is a remote, dark-water lake on Mynydd Llangatwg, offering a unique wild swimming experience after a scenic hike. The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, while not a lake, is a historic and scenic waterway running through Llangattock, perfect for walking, cycling, and boating.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Llangattock?
The lakes and surrounding areas offer a variety of activities. You can enjoy hiking and cycling along the towpaths of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, or explore the trails around Talybont Reservoir. Keeper's Pond is a popular starting point for hikes on the Blorenge mountain. For more detailed routes, check out the nearby hiking guides and road cycling routes.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming in the lakes near Llangattock?
Yes, Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond) is a popular spot for wild swimming, offering beautiful views and even a mobile wood-fired sauna on certain days. Pwll Gwy-rhoc (Witches Pool) is also considered a good, albeit more remote, spot for swimming.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities around Llangattock?
Absolutely. Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond) is noted as family-friendly, ideal for picnics and wildlife observation. The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal offers gentle walks and day boat hire, which can be a fun family activity. Talybont Reservoir also has family-friendly trails around its perimeter.
What historical or cultural significance do the water bodies near Llangattock have?
The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal is a significant historical waterway, part of the Blaenavon World Heritage Site, renowned for its industrial heritage. Keeper's Pond was man-made in the early 19th century to power a forge and is also within the Blaenavon Industrial Landscape World Heritage Site. Llangorse Lake features an ancient Crannog, an artificial island settlement.
Can I go boating or fishing on any of the lakes?
Llangorse Lake, the largest natural lake in South Wales, is ideal for boating and is considered one of the best pike fishing lakes in Wales. The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal also offers day boat hire options in Llangattock, allowing visitors to drive boats or relax with a skipper.
What kind of views can I expect around the lakes?
Many lakes offer stunning vistas. Keeper's Pond boasts great views across the Usk Valley towards the Sugar Loaf and Black Mountains. Pwll Gwy-rhoc provides superb views over the Usk Valley from the Llangattock Escarpment. Talybont Reservoir is appreciated for its scenic beauty, with splendid views from the dam.
Are there any dark sky viewing opportunities near the lakes?
Yes, both the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal and Llangorse Lake are recognized as excellent locations for dark sky viewing, offering clear night skies away from light pollution.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Llangattock?
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer is ideal for wild swimming and boating. Keeper's Pond is particularly known for beautiful sunset dips.
Are there easy walking trails around the lakes for beginners?
Yes, the towpaths along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal offer peaceful, flat walks suitable for all abilities. Around Talybont Reservoir, you'll find a network of trails and forest tracks, some of which are gentle. For more easy options, explore the easy hikes guide around Llangattock.
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