Cannop Ponds
A serene network of man-made ponds in the Forest of Dean, offering tranquil walks, wildlife spotting, and picnic spots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Cannop Ponds
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene network of man-made ponds in the Forest of Dean, offering tranquil walks, wildlife spotting, and picnic spots.
"A wonderful location for a walk, very well maintained with a stunning lake."
Extend Your Walk
Don't just stick to the pond loop! Explore the wider forest for miles of trails. :hiking_boot:
Parking Payment
Pay attention to parking machines; they often take coins only, but a phone payment option exists. 🅿️
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 804 reviews
Type
National Park
Address
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Ponds Themselves
Cannop Ponds
Man-made reservoirs with streams, dams, and waterfalls, offering a serene backdrop for walks and picnics.
Forest of Dean Trails
Surrounding Forest of Dean
Explore extensive walking and cycling paths that extend far beyond the ponds for a deeper woodland adventure.
Wildlife Spotting
Cannop Ponds and surrounding woodland
Keep an eye out for various bird species, fish, and other woodland creatures in this thriving natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Parking and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Extend Your Walk
Don't just stick to the pond loop! Explore the wider forest for miles of trails. :hiking_boot:
Parking Payment
Pay attention to parking machines; they often take coins only, but a phone payment option exists. 🅿️
Dog-Friendly Fun
A great spot for dogs and kids, with water streams for them to enjoy. 🐕
Picnic Paradise
Ideal for picnics with a burger van usually on-site for convenience. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
Extend Your Walk
Don't just stick to the pond loop! Explore the wider forest for miles of trails. :hiking_boot:
Parking Payment
Pay attention to parking machines; they often take coins only, but a phone payment option exists. 🅿️
Dog-Friendly Fun
A great spot for dogs and kids, with water streams for them to enjoy. 🐕
Picnic Paradise
Ideal for picnics with a burger van usually on-site for convenience. :sandwich:
Capture the Calm
Tranquil setting perfect for nature photography, especially in the early morning. 📷
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cannop Ponds for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for walks and picnics. While it can get busy on weekends, the surrounding forest offers ample opportunities for extended exploration. The accessibility for families and dogs is a significant plus, though parking payment methods can sometimes be a minor inconvenience.
"Much more than just a walk around the pond. Beautiful location with a nicely laid out, bike- free, walk around the ponds. But you can easily extend the short walk to incorporate much more of the wider forest and, because there are great bike paths nearby, you aren't bothered by cyclists at all:). We managed to walk for an hour on a circular route, completely avoiding the road or bike paths. It seems that you could continue this walk for many miles. Wonderful location."
Z U
"Great for families, picnic benches are available too. Car park is cash only though.
Lovely stroll around the lake too especially in the autumn."
kate millard
"Love this place. Dog and child friendly. Usually a food van there and lots of parking. Can get busy on weekends and bank holidays ♥️"
Regency Cleaners
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cannop Ponds are located in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire. Driving is the most common way to access the area, with ample parking available on-site. For those using public transport, check local bus routes that serve the Forest of Dean area, though direct access to the ponds might require a walk from the nearest stop.
Yes, there is ample parking available at Cannop Ponds. However, be aware that the pay machine typically accepts coins only, though a phone payment option is usually provided. +1
Absolutely! The Forest of Dean has excellent cycling paths, and you can easily incorporate Cannop Ponds into a cycling route. There are dedicated bike paths nearby, ensuring you can enjoy the scenery without being bothered by cyclists on the main walking paths.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Cannop Ponds and the surrounding Forest of Dean is generally free. You only need to pay for parking.
Cannop Ponds is an outdoor natural area and is accessible at all times. However, facilities like the burger van may have specific operating hours.
There is no entrance fee to visit Cannop Ponds. The main cost associated with a visit is for parking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a peaceful walk around the ponds, extend your hike into the wider Forest of Dean, have a picnic, spot wildlife, and take photographs. Children and dogs often enjoy paddling in the water streams. +1
Yes, the walk around Cannop Ponds is well-maintained and considered very suitable for children and dogs. It's a popular spot for families and pet owners.
While children and dogs may paddle in the streams, swimming in the main ponds is generally not recommended or permitted due to safety and conservation reasons.
Information on specific toilet facilities can vary. It's advisable to check recent visitor information or be prepared with your own provisions, especially if planning a longer visit.
Yes, Cannop Ponds is a beautiful and tranquil spot, especially popular for landscape and nature photography. The woodland setting and water features offer many picturesque opportunities. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, there is a burger van at the car park offering food options. It's also a popular spot for picnics, so bringing your own food is a great idea.
Absolutely! Cannop Ponds is an ideal location for a picnic, with grassy areas available.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit