Alwen Reservoir is a stunning natural landscape near the town of Denbigh. With its striking dam, forests, and moorland it’s an area overflowing with things to see and do.
Let’s take a look at what Alwen Reservoir has to offer in this complete guide!
Alwen Reservoir History
The dam at Alwen Reservoir is definitely the star of the show here! The dam and reservoir were built between 1911-1920 to provide high-quality water for the Wirral and parts of Liverpool. Today, the reservoir is still working to provide water for north-east Wales.
Architecturally, the dam is spectacular with an Italian-style valve tower that brings an enchanting element to the whole structure.
The woodland of Conifer trees that surround the reservoir make up part of Hiraethog Forest and was planted following World War 1 to replenish timber supplies.
Can You Walk Around Alwen Reservoir?
Yes! The dam is the starting point for a trail that goes all the way around the reservoir and is perfect for walking, cycling, and horse riding. The walk gives you the opportunity to explore the forests and woodlands along with breathtaking views across the reservoir.
The Alwen Reservoir Circular Walk
This beautiful circular around Alwen Reservoir is around 10km long and graded as a moderate walk. Starting from the Alwen Car Park, you’ll set off through forests and moorland that run along the water’s edge.
Alwen Reservoir is the largest man-made lake in Wales making it home to a variety of wildlife and birds. Along the trail, you’ll find illustrated panels to help you identify the culture, wildlife, and folk tales of this historic landscape.
The views across the reservoir are stunning with plenty of amazing photo opportunities. One of the highlights of my visit was spotting the mountains of Snowdonia in the distance for a really breathtaking backdrop.
Where is Alwen Reservoir?
Alwen Reservoir borders Conwy and Denbighshire and is around 14 miles away from the town of Denbigh in Wales.
Can You Kayak On Alwen Reservoir?
Hiring a kayak is easy from the Llyn Brenig Sailing Club just under 3 miles from Alwen Reservoir. The centre offers one-person kayaks for £25 each with a water sports kit provided. All you need is your swimming trunks!
If you have your own kayak, keep a look out around the reservoir for any signs that can direct you as to whether this is permitted with a launch fee or not.
Is Alwen Reservoir Dog Friendly?
Yes! Alwen Reservoir is dog-friendly – dogs are very welcome throughout the whole area of the reservoir and are permitted to run around freely off-lead.
Alwen Reservoir Fishing Rules
All methods of fishing are permitted at Alwen except north of the bridge where only fly fishing is permitted. The area is full of a variety of fish including rainbow trout and perch.
The fishing here is controlled by Wesh Water so you will need to gain a permit ticket from Llyn Brenig Visitors Centre or apply online. With so many fish in the waters, this is a great location for novice fishers to land a catch.
Camping Rules
You’ll find a variety of camping spots around the reservoir area. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to wild camp directly on Alwen reservoir itself.
The closest campsite for wild camping is Hafod Hall Camping Club, just under a mile away from the reservoir. The campsite is eco-friendly and the perfect spot for stargazing. If you’re looking for a bit more luxury, Llywn Onn is a glamping site just over 3 miles away providing peaceful camping pods and a packed breakfast hamper on arrival!
Paddle Boarding Rules
There are no clear rules for paddle boarding on Alwen Reservoir itself but hiring a paddle board is possible from the nearby Llyn Brenig Sailing Club. If you head towards their activity hub, you’ll be able to hire a paddle board for up to 1 hour 30 minutes from £25 per person.
Of course, if you have your own paddle board keep a look out for any information or signs at Alwen Reservoir to indicate if this is permitted. The reservoir does have its own watersports centre where you can try your hand at water skiing, wakeboarding, and knee boarding with friendly instructors to get you out on the water safely.
Tourist Information
The visitor’s centre is located near Llyn Brenig lake and has a cafe, toilet facilities, a play area, a fishing shop, and bike hire. Walkers and cyclists will find a link route between the car parks of Alwen Reservoir and Llyn Brenig.
Sometimes the trails have diversions or closures due to maintenance work or forest operations. Please always follow any instructions or diversions for your own safety. Occasionally the site will be closed due to extreme weather such as high winds, snow, and ice.
Parking is available at the Alwen Reservoir car park and costs £2.50. There is no staff on location.
How To Get There
If you are coming from the South, take the B4501 from Cerrigydrudion towards Denbigh, following the brown and white signs to Llyn Brenig. After three miles, turn left down a stoned track to the Alwen Natural Resources Wales car park.
If you’re coming from the North, take the B4501 from Denbigh towards Cerrigydrudion. After 10 miles, go past the Llyn Brenig Dŵr Cymru/Welsh Water visitor centre car park and continue for one mile. The turning to Alwen Reservoir is on the right and the car park is at the end of a stoned track.
For public transportation, the nearest train station is in Rhyl.