Siblyback Lake
A picturesque reservoir in Cornwall offering scenic walks, watersports, and a dog-friendly cafe amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Abundant wildlife & fewer crowds
Siblyback Lake
Best Time
Abundant wildlife & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque reservoir in Cornwall offering scenic walks, watersports, and a dog-friendly cafe amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
"Lovely place for a walk with plenty of wildlife and a great dog-friendly cafe."
🚗 Narrow Road Access
The final miles to Siblyback Lake can be on narrow Cornish roads. Drive with care and be mindful of oncoming traffic.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Dogs are welcome on leads, and the cafe offers free treats! Note that dogs should be kept out of the water due to wildlife.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Circular Lakeside Walk
Around the reservoir
Enjoy a scenic 3.2-mile walk with lovely views and abundant wildlife. The path is well-maintained and mostly flat, perfect for all ages.
Olive & Co Cafe
Lakeside
Savor delicious coffee, breakfast, and cakes at this dog-friendly cafe. They even offer free treats for your canine companions!
Watersports Adventures
Siblyback Lake Activity Centre
Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or SUP. The lake is ideal for a refreshing dip in nature's playground.
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Planning Your Visit
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Parking & Amenities
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Insider Tips
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🚗 Narrow Road Access
The final miles to Siblyback Lake can be on narrow Cornish roads. Drive with care and be mindful of oncoming traffic.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Dogs are welcome on leads, and the cafe offers free treats! Note that dogs should be kept out of the water due to wildlife.
☕ Cafe Delights
Don't miss the Olive & Co cafe for great coffee and cakes. Check their opening times before you visit.
🅿️ Parking Options
Pay for parking via app for 2-hour or all-day options. Arrive early on busy days to secure a spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Narrow Road Access
The final miles to Siblyback Lake can be on narrow Cornish roads. Drive with care and be mindful of oncoming traffic.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Dogs are welcome on leads, and the cafe offers free treats! Note that dogs should be kept out of the water due to wildlife.
☕ Cafe Delights
Don't miss the Olive & Co cafe for great coffee and cakes. Check their opening times before you visit.
🅿️ Parking Options
Pay for parking via app for 2-hour or all-day options. Arrive early on busy days to secure a spot.
🚶♀️ Well-Maintained Paths
The 3.2-mile circular path is easy to navigate and perfect for a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk.
🛶 Watersports Ready
Bring your own gear or inquire about rentals for kayaking and paddleboarding.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Siblyback Lake is widely praised as a lovely spot for walks with well-maintained paths and beautiful scenery. Visitors appreciate the dog-friendly cafe and the family-friendly atmosphere. Some minor drawbacks include narrow access roads and occasional off-lead dogs despite signage.
"Lovely place for a walk. The path around the reservoir is well maintained and flat. Dogs on leads, although you'll get away with a well behaved one off lead. The Olive &Co cafe does excellent breakfast and cakes. It's dog friendly with free dog treats. Check opening times online. Parking was 2.50 for 2 hours or £5 all day."
Nick Crocker
"Had a really lovely walk around the lake today. It was busy but not too bad, there was ample parking. There were a number of dogs off lead despite plenty of signage to the contrary.
All in all a very enjoyable trip with lovely views."
Sian Humphrey
"Gorgeous lake and dam with a circular walk around the lake with plenty of branches. The Cheesewring and Golitha Falls are hiking distance away, with the lake being centrally positioned to the three. Medium sized car park, pay by app. Typically cornish narrow single track road for the last couple miles. Cafe and free toilets on site. Play area for children as well as a dog exercise area. Visited in June 2021."
Brad Willis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Siblyback Lake is located in Cornwall. The final approach roads can be narrow, so drive with caution. Parking is available on-site and is payable via an app. +1
The postcode for Siblyback Lake is PL14 6ER. This will help you navigate using GPS devices.
Public transport options to Siblyback Lake can be limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car for the easiest access. Check local bus routes for potential connections from nearby towns like Liskeard.
Yes, Siblyback Lake is centrally positioned to attractions like Golitha Falls and The Cheesewring, which are within hiking distance.
Many visitors find it easiest to approach Siblyback Lake from Liskeard. Be prepared for single-track roads as you get closer to the lake.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee to access Siblyback Lake and its grounds. However, parking fees apply.
Siblyback Lake is generally open year-round during daylight hours. The Olive & Co cafe has specific opening times, so it's best to check their schedule online before your visit.
Parking at Siblyback Lake typically costs £2.50 for 2 hours or £5 for an all-day pass. Payment is usually made via a parking app.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Siblyback Lake, but they must be kept on a lead. They are also not permitted in the water due to the wildlife.
The public toilets at Siblyback Lake are usually free to use.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Siblyback Lake is perfect for walking, birdwatching, and enjoying the scenery. Watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular.
Absolutely! The 3.2-mile circular path is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it ideal for families with children and pushchairs. +1
Yes, there is a play area for children on-site, making it a great destination for family outings.
Swimming in Siblyback Lake is generally not permitted due to safety reasons and the presence of wildlife. Stick to designated watersports.
You can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including birds and other waterfowl. The lake is a haven for nature lovers.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, the Olive & Co cafe is located at Siblyback Lake, offering coffee, breakfast, and cakes.
The Olive & Co cafe is very dog-friendly and even provides complimentary dog treats.
The cafe serves a range of items including coffee, breakfast, and cakes. 
While not explicitly mentioned as designated picnic areas, the scenic surroundings make it a pleasant spot for a picnic.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy a picnic by the lake.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam, the expansive lake views, and the surrounding natural landscape offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Sunrise and sunset can provide stunning light.
Yes, Siblyback Lake is excellent for landscape photography, with its open water, rolling hills, and the impressive dam structure.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the South West Lakes Trust or local authorities regarding drone operation policies before flying.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more atmospheric scene.
The dam itself provides a dramatic perspective. Walking the circular path offers various vantage points across the lake and surrounding countryside.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy the scenic surroundings, or stop by the cafe for a bite. The relatively flat terrain of the main path makes it accessible for pushchairs, adding to its family-friendly appeal. It's a great spot for a relaxed day out, combining gentle activity with natural beauty.
🐶 Dog Walkers
The Olive & Co cafe is a major plus, as it's incredibly dog-friendly and even provides free dog treats. This makes it an ideal spot to relax with your canine companion after a walk. Just remember the rule about keeping dogs out of the water to protect the local wildlife.
🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
+1The impressive dam structure itself is a striking subject, and the circular walk provides numerous vantage points for capturing the expansive landscape. While drone usage might be restricted, the natural beauty is ample for ground-level photography. Consider visiting during quieter times, like weekdays or early mornings, to fully immerse yourself in the tranquility and capture the best shots without crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Siblyback Lake by Foot
Beyond the main loop, the lake's location makes it a great starting point for more adventurous hikes. It's centrally positioned to other popular Cornish landmarks like Golitha Falls and The Cheesewring, allowing for longer excursions into the surrounding countryside. This versatility means you can tailor your walking experience to your fitness level and desired adventure.
Remember to wear comfortable footwear, especially if you plan on venturing onto less maintained trails. Checking the weather forecast is also advisable, as Cornish weather can be unpredictable. Bringing water and snacks is a good idea, though the cafe provides refreshments.
Watersports and Activities
While some visitors bring their own equipment, it's worth checking if rental options are available through the activity centre or local providers. The calm waters of the reservoir make it an ideal location for beginners to try out these sports. The lake is also a popular venue for organized events, such as trail running races, adding a dynamic element to the area.
+1It's important to note that swimming in the lake is generally not permitted due to safety concerns and the protected wildlife. Always adhere to any posted guidelines and safety instructions provided by the activity centre or local authorities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
The Olive & Co Cafe Experience
What sets this cafe apart is its exceptional dog-friendliness. Not only are canine companions welcome, but they are also treated to complimentary dog treats, making it a favorite destination for dog owners. This thoughtful touch enhances the overall visitor experience, ensuring that furry friends are just as well catered for as their human companions.
When planning your visit, it's a good idea to check the cafe's opening hours online, as they can vary. This ensures you won't miss out on their offerings, whether you're looking for a morning coffee or an afternoon treat.
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