Image shared for Stithians Lake circular walk: dam, woodland and Penmarth
Countryside Circular

Stithians Lake circular walk: dam, woodland and Penmarth

Cornwall

Distance
4.8 mi
Est. time
2h 30m
Difficulty
Medium
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

Start at the South West Lakes Activity Centre car park at Menherion, TR16 6NW. This circuit follows the reservoir through open lakeside grassland, wet woodland and heath, with the dam and views across the water as its main landmarks. Allow about 2 hours 30 minutes for the walk and short stops.

Walk north along the Activity Centre access drive to the Golden Lion side of the lake, then follow the road briefly across the northern causeway. Take the lake path around the northern and eastern shores, keeping to the waterside route at the bridleway junctions. At the dam approach, use the steps with a handrail to reach the concrete dam walkway. Cross the dam and continue along the southern shore through Menherdue Wood to Mossop's End.

The next section follows the public country road around the southern nature reserve to Penmarth. It has no pavement: keep alert for traffic and take care at bends and the causeway. Leave the road on the signed bridleway beside Penmarth church, return towards Chapel Lane, cross the small footbridge and follow the western lake paths back to the Activity Centre. Stay out of the marked nature reserves and the anglers-only peninsula.

Expect uneven ground, muddy patches after rain and steps at the dam. The lake is exposed to wind. Parking charges apply, with cafe and toilets at the Activity Centre; check seasonal opening times before relying on them. Route based on South West Lakes Trust's published Stithians circular walking map.

Walk details

County
Cornwall
Walk type
Circular
Category
Countryside
Distance
4.8 mi (7.8 km)
Est. time
2h 30m
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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