Tucked away in the Denbigh Moors is Llyn Brenig, a reservoir known for outdoor adventure and activity. Its undeniable versatility and beauty have made it the perfect outdoor playground for visitors and locals alike. With vast blue waters and greenery all around, it was one of my favourite places to enjoy some of the best things in life: walking on nature trails, indulging in a picnic, exploring the water, and taking in unbelievable natural surroundings.
History of the Lake
Llyn Brenig is an artificial reservoir that was created between 1973 and 1979 and is the 4th largest lake in the country at 920 acres. Although it is a popular place for activities such as fishing and water sports, it was constructed for a practical purpose – to protect the water supply for northeast Wales and northwest England.
The lake has some intriguing history that visitors can learn about in the centre houses, with exhibits on archaeology, geology, and natural history. Interestingly, it is also home to the rare fish-eating bird, the Osprey. With the Llyn Brenig Osprey project, the site built nests back in 2013 to help protect the remaining few and allow them to nest. To learn more about the project and the birds, the Llyn Brenig Osprey Exhibition and the Nest Cam Live Feed are great ways to get a closer look.
During the lake’s construction, many archaeological finds from the Bronze Age, ruins of 16th-century farm buildings, and a camp used by Mesolithic tribes were found. Among the many walking trails, I took the time to walk along the 4-kilometre archaeological trail, which took me from the shore of Llyn Brenig and past ruins of Bronze Age landmarks and items, as well as centuries-old structures.
What To Do at Llyn Brenig Reservoir
With over 2500-acres of land, there are plenty of things to do at Llyn Brenig. The visitor centre is the perfect place to start your adventure. Whether you want to reel in your next big catch, sail across the water, or cycle on the network of trails, you can get all the information and recommendations you need there.
You can rent bikes and get fishing permits, prepare for your trip at the Fishing Shop, or pick up a souvenir from the Gift Shop. You’ll find art made by local craftspeople, unique jewellery, and impressive prints by local photographers. There is also the Lakeside Cafe, where many like to wind down and dine al fresco on the balcony or in the airy dining room. Among the range of activities, here are a few all-around favourites…
Walking Trails
The main circular walking trail around Llyn Brenig is a 4-hour, 15-kilometre route where you can get an overview of the entire perimeter of the lake. It boasts tons of wildlife sightings including deer, red squirrels, badgers, and otters.
The Alwen Walking Trail is an 11.5-kilometre circular walk around nearby Cronfa Alwen that takes 3 hours to complete. It takes walkers through the Mynydd Hiraethog Site of Special Scientific Interest and a pretty wooden bridge across the lake. For those looking for a shorter walk through woodland, the Elorgarreg Walking Trail is a 2-hour, 8-kilometre alternative.
If you can’t decide between the walk around Llyn Brenig or Cronfa Alwen and want to see a bit of both, the Lake Circular Walking trail combines both routes. Parts of the route allow you to see the archeological areas where many relics were found.
Cycling
From 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, there are both adult and child bikes and bike trailers available for rent. I booked online in advance to make sure I was able to snag a bike during my visit. With paths of varying difficulty and different scenery, it’s a great way to get some fresh air and some exercise.
As I had already conquered a walking trail, I did the easy 4-kilometre Lakes Link Cycling Trail which had stunning views of both lakes. However, there is also the 23-kilometre Two Lakes Cycling Trail and other trails of moderate lengths if you fancy something a bit more challenging.
Kayaking
Kayaking or canoeing is a great way to see the wildlife and scenery from an entirely new perspective in the summer. With a body of water this vast and peaceful, you won’t want to miss it. Stand-up paddleboarding is also a lake favourite, and you can take lessons if you aren’t familiar with the sport.
Fishing
Llyn Brenig is considered one of the best fisheries in the UK for experienced and beginner anglers. It has hooked people in for years with its prime top-of-the-water trout fishing and pike fishing in the winter months. Its 23 kilometres of shoreline provides a large area for people to fish from a boat or peg – all you need is a permit.
The lake also hosts the World Fly Fishing Championships and regular Fly Fishing International challenges, earning it an international reputation for its quality fishing.
Sailing
The lake is home to the Llyn Brenig Sailing Club, a privately run club that offers training sessions and races right on the beautiful water. They welcome sailors of all ages and levels at affordable prices to the highest freshwater sailing location in the UK.