Colliford Lake
A vast reservoir on Bodmin Moor, offering stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the unique Kerdroya labyrinth.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Colliford Lake
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast reservoir on Bodmin Moor, offering stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the unique Kerdroya labyrinth.
"Highly recommend this lake for anyone looking to recharge, reconnect with nature, or simply enjoy some quiet time."
Sturdy Shoes Essential
The walk around the lake can be uneven. Wear good walking boots or shoes for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Watch for Wildlife
Drive slowly as cows, sheep, and horses roam freely. They might even stick their heads into your car! :cow:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kerdroya Labyrinth
Bodmin Moor
A unique stone labyrinth celebrating Cornish hedges. Still a captivating experience even if not fully complete.
Wildlife Encounters
Around the lake
Get up close with cows, sheep, lambs, and horses roaming freely. Drive slowly and enjoy these incredible encounters.
Panoramic Lake Views
Various viewpoints
Experience breathtaking scenery and tranquil waters. The light here can be truly magical, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild Walk
Plan for Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Sturdy Shoes Essential
The walk around the lake can be uneven. Wear good walking boots or shoes for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Watch for Wildlife
Drive slowly as cows, sheep, and horses roam freely. They might even stick their heads into your car! :cow:
Picnic Preparedness
Bring your own food and take all rubbish with you. Toilets can be unreliable, so be prepared. :sandwich:
Drone Photography Fun
Capture stunning aerial views of the lake and surrounding moorland. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Sturdy Shoes Essential
The walk around the lake can be uneven. Wear good walking boots or shoes for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Watch for Wildlife
Drive slowly as cows, sheep, and horses roam freely. They might even stick their heads into your car! :cow:
Picnic Preparedness
Bring your own food and take all rubbish with you. Toilets can be unreliable, so be prepared. :sandwich:
Drone Photography Fun
Capture stunning aerial views of the lake and surrounding moorland. :camerawithflash:
Peaceful Escape
Ideal for recharging and reconnecting with nature away from the city bustle. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Colliford Lake is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape. Visitors love the opportunity for scenic walks and close encounters with wildlife. However, some find the terrain challenging, and amenities like toilets can be unreliable.
"One of natures delights.
You can walk around it in just over two hours.
Not easy thou beware.
I got chased by a sheep.
I saw a massive fish racing thru the water.
The scenery is out of this world.
It’s absolutely beautiful.
I was lucky the sun was blaring. Got a fantastic tan.
Also you’re surrounded by meadows with cows or sheep."
Christopher Whall
"Highly recommend this lake for anyone looking to recharge, reconnect with nature, or simply enjoy some quiet time away from the hustle of daily life. 🌿💙"
Diljith Joy
"Really pretty. We were lucky to catch an amazing light. Seems to be some development going on at the moment. There is a car park which you are supposed to pay for, with some toilets. However, there's a little roadside parking area only a few meters away. It's a very open space."
Leeadam Apeira
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Colliford Lake is located on Bodmin Moor in Cornwall. It's accessible by car, with the A30 running nearby. There's a designated car park, though roadside parking is also an option.
Yes, it's generally easy to find by car, especially if you're using GPS. The postcode PL14 6PZ can guide you.
There is a car park available, but be aware that some areas might have height restrictions (around 2m). Roadside parking is also possible nearby.
While not explicitly stated as a dedicated cycle path, the open terrain around the lake would likely be suitable for cycling, especially on the less rugged sections.
Public transport options to Colliford Lake are limited. It's best accessed by car for flexibility and to explore the surrounding Bodmin Moor.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the natural area around Colliford Lake is generally free. However, there might be charges for the designated car park.
As a natural reservoir and moorland area, Colliford Lake doesn't have set opening hours. It's accessible during daylight hours.
Swimming or entering the water at Colliford Lake is generally not permitted, as it's a working reservoir.
There isn't a formal visitor center. Information and amenities are limited, so it's best to come prepared.
No, there are no booking requirements to visit Colliford Lake. It's an open natural space.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy scenic walks around the lake, observe wildlife, visit the Kerdroya labyrinth, and have a picnic. 
A walk around the entire lake can take just over two hours, depending on your pace and stops.
Yes, Colliford Lake is a great spot for birdwatching, with potential sightings of various species, including the rare white-tailed sea eagle.
Fishing is generally not permitted at Colliford Lake as it's a reservoir.
Expect to see cows, sheep, lambs, horses, and various bird species.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no on-site cafes or restaurants directly at Colliford Lake. You'll need to bring your own food or visit nearby establishments.
Absolutely! Colliford Lake is a beautiful spot for a picnic. Just remember to take all your rubbish with you.
The Jamaica Inn is a famous nearby option for food and drink, or you can explore other options in nearby villages.
The Colliford Lake Hotel & Campsite may offer dining options, but it's best to check their specific services directly.
Typically, there are no regular food stalls or vendors at Colliford Lake itself.
📸 📸 Photography
Anywhere with a view of the water and the surrounding moorland offers great photo opportunities. The Kerdroya labyrinth is also a unique subject.
Yes, Colliford Lake is a fantastic location for drone photography, offering stunning aerial perspectives of the reservoir and Bodmin Moor.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, creating beautiful golden hour effects.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permissions, especially near the reservoir infrastructure.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities can be limited. Sturdy footwear is a must for little explorers tackling the varied terrain. Consider a picnic to make the most of the beautiful surroundings. The drive around the lake should be slow and cautious due to the free-roaming animals.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Be sure to wear appropriate hiking gear, as the paths can be challenging. Inform someone of your plans and estimated return time, as mobile signal can be intermittent in some areas. Enjoy the solitude and the opportunity to connect with the wild Cornish landscape.
📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
+1Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly magical for capturing the best light. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens for wildlife. Drone photography is also a popular way to capture the vastness of the area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Kerdroya: A Cornish Hedge Masterpiece
Visitors have found Kerdroya to be a captivating addition to the Colliford Lake landscape. It's a place where art meets nature, providing a distinct visual and tactile experience. The use of local materials and traditional techniques makes it a significant cultural landmark. It's recommended to visit and discover its charm for yourself.
+2Wildlife Encounters and Responsible Visiting
When driving near Colliford Lake, always adhere to the speed limit and be prepared to stop for animals crossing the road. Some visitors have even reported animals showing curiosity towards vehicles, with horses sticking their heads through car windows!
The Practicalities of Visiting Colliford Lake
The terrain around the lake can be uneven and challenging in places, so wearing sturdy walking boots or shoes is highly recommended for a comfortable and safe experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit