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Powys

Lake Vyrnwy

Attractions and Places To See around Lake Vyrnwy - Top 7

Best attractions and places to see around Lake Vyrnwy include a large man-made reservoir located in Powys, Wales. This area is surrounded by remote mountains and thick forests, offering a diverse landscape. It is a designated national nature reserve, providing opportunities for wildlife observation and various trails for exploration. The region features notable landmarks such as its historic dam and diverse natural features like waterfalls and extensive woodlands.

Best attractions and places to see around Lake Vyrnwy

  • The most popular attractions is Lake Vyrnwy Dam, a man-made monument that was the first of its kind in Britain. This impressive Gothic stone-built dam, completed in 1888, stands 44 meters high and 358 meters long.
  • Another must-see spot is Lake Vyrnwy Straining Tower, a man-made monument and Grade I listed building. This intake tower extracts water from the lake and features a Gothic Revival design.
  • Visitors also love Hand Sculpture of the Tallest Tree in the UK, a unique man-made monument carved from a felled Douglas fir. This sculpture represents the tree reaching for the sky one last time.
  • Lake Vyrnwy is known for its man-made monuments, natural features like waterfalls, and extensive forests. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including historical sites and natural monuments.
  • The attractions around Lake Vyrnwy are appreciated by the komoot community, with 80 upvotes and 41 photos shared across the highlights.

Last updated: September 27, 2026

Lake Vyrnwy Dam

Highlight • Monument

This is brilliant peice of architecture thats still in use today, you can feel the sheer power of the flow of water down the dam one side, and the peace and tranquility of the lake the other.

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Lake Vyrnwy Straining Tower

Highlight • Monument

Lake Vyrnwy (Welsh: Llyn Efyrnwy, pronounced [ɛˈvərnʊɨ] or Llyn Llanwddyn) is a reservoir in Powys, Wales, built in the 1880s for Liverpool Corporation Waterworks to supply Liverpool with fresh water. It flooded the head of the Vyrnwy (Welsh: Afon Efyrnwy) valley and submerged the village of Llanwddyn.

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Fantastic sculpture created from a dead tree.

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Nant y Maes Waterfall

Highlight • River

Along the road you come to a small bridge at the side of it is a beautiful natural waterfall close to Nant y Maes stream.
Stunning waterfall that meets the lake

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Giant Hand of Lake Vyrnwy

Highlight • Forest

Felled Then Sculpted into a hand in legacy of the once was the tallest tree in the UK! Stood at then 147m in all her glory unfortunately from a storm in 2010. Where March 2011 they had stumped it to 50m then autumn 2011 the awesome absolutely incredible sculpture of a hand represents storm had damaged the actual douglas fur that bad that it had to be felled at 50m for safety of numerous accounts in that area as the devastation if left to fall on its own I imagine that it would have and could have been catastrophic and unbelievable to even think on, as it would no doubt have touched the lake itself if was left and In process ripping down many of the surrounding small giants that grew in that part of the forest. I would have loved to have seen what the actual tree looked like in all her prime of height but ive not managed to find anything yet my search continues 2years on. I felt a huge hit of the most hardcore feeling of emotion. I felt a sense of link and connection with the whole ethos in the giants and the trail that’s left still today, I’ve never looked at a single tree in the same ever since. Please everyone take extra care whilst you’re here as there’s been issues recently with vandalism and even cutting the surrounding areas illegally that is a protected area and it’s not a place that usually has fallen into a victim of crimes but it is and it has rubbish is to be taken home

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Tips from the Community

Zoe Evans
February 2, 2026, Lake Vyrnwy Straining Tower

Lake Vyrnwys straining tower! Lovely place and gives it that fairy tale vibe. One of my special places is Vyrnwy.

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Gorgeous area. Be aware the road/trail on the south side (including access to/from Llanymawddwy) are currently closed due to damage from storm Darragh. See https://www.hdcymru.co.uk/our-visitor-sites/lake-vyrnwy/storm-darragh/ for more details.

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Felled Then Sculpted into a hand in legacy of the once was the tallest tree in the UK! Stood at then 147m in all her glory unfortunately from a storm in 2010. Where March 2011 they had stumped it to 50m then autumn 2011 the awesome absolutely incredible sculpture of a hand represents storm had damaged the actual douglas fur that bad that it had to be felled at 50m for safety of numerous accounts in that area as the devastation if left to fall on its own I imagine that it would have and could have been catastrophic and unbelievable to even think on, as it would no doubt have touched the lake itself if was left and In process ripping down many of the surrounding small giants that grew in that part of the forest. I would have loved to have seen what the actual tree looked like in all her prime of height but ive not managed to find anything yet my search continues 2years on. I felt a huge hit of the most hardcore feeling of emotion. I felt a sense of link and connection with the whole ethos in the giants and the trail that’s left still today, I’ve never looked at a single tree in the same ever since. Please everyone take extra care whilst you’re here as there’s been issues recently with vandalism and even cutting the surrounding areas illegally that is a protected area and it’s not a place that usually has fallen into a victim of crimes but it is and it has rubbish is to be taken home

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embee999
September 26, 2024, Lake Vyrnwy Dam

There is a little cafe above the main car park for a coffee and cake after the "gift shop" labelled walks. As usual, Komoot makes the walk easier than using signposts - remember to download to the phone app. Kayaking/canoeing around the lake is only possible for about half of it due to a protected bird sanctuary.

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Along the road you come to a small bridge at the side of it is a beautiful natural waterfall close to Nant y Maes stream. Stunning waterfall that meets the lake

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The Straining Tower at Lake Vyrnwy is an intake tower built to extract water from the lake. The tower stands on the north shore of Lake Vyrnwy, near the village of Llanwddyn, in Powys, Wales. The Lake Vyrnwy dam project was designed to provide a water supply to the city of Liverpool and work on the dam began in 1881. On its completion 11 years later, the lake was the largest reservoir in Europe and water was drawn from it into the straining tower and carried to Liverpool on a 110km-long aqueduct. The engineers for the project were Thomas Hawksley and George Frederick Deacon, although the straining tower was entirely Deacon's design. The tower is constructed in a Gothic Revival style, purportedly based on the tower of the castle at Chillon, Switzerland. It draws heavily on the contemporaneous work of William Burges, whose Cardiff Castle and Castell Coch are clear influences. The straining tower is a Grade I listed building.

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The Straining Tower at Lake Vyrnwy is an intake tower built to extract water from the lake. The tower stands on the north shore of Lake Vyrnwy, near the village of Llanwddyn, in Powys, Wales. The Lake Vyrnwy dam project was designed to provide a water supply to the city of Liverpool and work on the dam began in 1881. On its completion 11 years later, the lake was the largest reservoir in Europe and water was drawn from it into the straining tower and carried to Liverpool on a 110km-long aqueduct. The engineers for the project were Thomas Hawksley and George Frederick Deacon, although the straining tower was entirely Deacon's design. The tower is constructed in a Gothic Revival style, purportedly based on the tower of the castle at Chillon, Switzerland. It draws heavily on the contemporaneous work of William Burges, whose Cardiff Castle and Castell Coch are clear influences. The straining tower is a Grade I listed building

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Lake Vyrnwy (Welsh: Llyn Efyrnwy, pronounced [ɛˈvərnʊɨ] or Llyn Llanwddyn) is a reservoir in Powys, Wales, built in the 1880s for Liverpool Corporation Waterworks to supply Liverpool with fresh water. It flooded the head of the Vyrnwy (Welsh: Afon Efyrnwy) valley and submerged the village of Llanwddyn.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features can I explore around Lake Vyrnwy?

Lake Vyrnwy is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. You can discover picturesque waterfalls like Nant y Maes Waterfall, which plunges down near the road, and the more remote Rhiwargor Waterfall at the northern end of the lake. The area is also rich with extensive forests and moorland, offering dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Are there any historical landmarks to visit at Lake Vyrnwy?

Yes, Lake Vyrnwy is home to significant historical landmarks. The impressive Lake Vyrnwy Dam, a Gothic stone-built structure completed in 1888, was the first of its kind in Britain. Nearby, you'll find the Lake Vyrnwy Straining Tower, a Grade I listed building with a distinctive Gothic Revival design, built to extract water from the lake.

What unique artistic attractions are there around Lake Vyrnwy?

The area features unique artistic elements that blend with nature. You can find the Hand Sculpture of the Tallest Tree in the UK, carved from a felled Douglas fir, symbolizing the tree reaching for the sky. Additionally, a visionary Lake Vyrnwy Sculpture Park is located below the dam, offering an artistic touch to the natural landscape.

What outdoor activities can I do near Lake Vyrnwy?

Lake Vyrnwy offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling or walking along the 12-mile road that encircles the lake. For more adventurous cycling, explore the MTB Trails around Lake Vyrnwy, or find scenic routes for Cycling around Lake Vyrnwy. The lake also provides opportunities for fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing.

Are there family-friendly attractions around Lake Vyrnwy?

Absolutely. Many attractions around Lake Vyrnwy are suitable for families. The Lake Vyrnwy Dam and Lake Vyrnwy Straining Tower are impressive sights for all ages. The RSPB Nature Reserve and Visitor Centre offers bird hides and nature trails, perfect for engaging children with wildlife. The 12-mile road around the lake is also popular for family cycling and walking.

Where can I go birdwatching or spot wildlife at Lake Vyrnwy?

Lake Vyrnwy is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The Lake Vyrnwy Nature Reserve and Estate, jointly managed by the RSPB and Hafren Dyfrdwy, is a designated national nature reserve. Here, you can visit the RSPB Nature Reserve and Visitor Centre, which provides bird hides, nature trails, and viewing points to spot species like peregrine falcons, pied flycatchers, and various bats.

What kind of walking trails are available around Lake Vyrnwy?

There are various walking trails catering to different abilities. The 12-mile road around the lake is a popular, relatively flat option. For more immersive experiences, you can explore trails like the Rhiwagor Trail, Craig Garth Bwlch Trail, or the Giants of Vyrnwy Trail, which features gigantic Douglas fir trees. You can also find dedicated Waterfall hikes around Lake Vyrnwy.

What is the best time to visit Lake Vyrnwy?

Lake Vyrnwy offers beauty year-round, but the best time depends on your interests. Spring and summer are ideal for wildlife spotting, cycling, and water activities, with longer daylight hours. Autumn brings stunning foliage, while winter offers a peaceful, secluded atmosphere, often with clear skies perfect for stargazing.

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots near Lake Vyrnwy?

Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring the history of the Submerged Village of Llanwddyn, which lies beneath the lake's waters, a poignant reminder of the valley's past. For a unique experience, the Lake Vyrnwy Sculpture Park below the dam offers an unexpected blend of art and nature. For a historical insight into Victorian life, the Llanfyllin Workhouse is a short drive away.

What do visitors enjoy most about Lake Vyrnwy?

Visitors frequently praise the stunning scenery and the peaceful, tranquil atmosphere of Lake Vyrnwy. Many appreciate the impressive architecture of the dam and straining tower, noting the sheer power of the water on one side and the calm of the lake on the other. The diverse wildlife and well-maintained trails for cycling and walking are also highly valued, making it a perfect destination for connecting with nature.

Can I go stargazing at Lake Vyrnwy?

Yes, Lake Vyrnwy is an excellent location for stargazing. Due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, the area boasts dark skies, providing fantastic opportunities to observe stars and celestial phenomena.

What is the significance of the Lake Vyrnwy reservoir?

Lake Vyrnwy is a large man-made reservoir, built in the 1880s to supply fresh water to Liverpool. Upon its completion, it was once the largest reservoir in Europe. Its construction involved flooding the Vyrnwy valley and submerging the original village of Llanwddyn, a significant historical event for the region.

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