RSPB Lake Vyrnwy Nature Reserve

As an important area for wildlife, Lake Vyrnwy has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) as well as a Natura 2000 site. It is a wonderful day out for all the family with the Nature Reserve, Sculpture Park, Wild Play Area, fantastic waterfalls and open countryside, walking trails and children's activities.

To get to RSPB Lake Vyrnwy, you cross the famous Victorian stone wall dam, the first of its kind in the world, and still pretty breathtaking today. Whether you want nature and wildlife, history and heritage, or a relaxing day out in the heart of the beautiful mid Wales countryside, there's something for everyone.

Birdlife is in abundance all year round. In spring, migrants such as pied flycatchers, redstarts and wood warblers arrive and common sandpipers, dippers and grey wagtails are to be seen around the pool below the dam.

In summer you can watch fledglings at the feeding station, hear nightjars, and see golden-ringed dragonflies in the forest clearings. Autumn sees dabbling ducks such as mallards and teals arriving at the lake, along with little grebes and oystercatchers. In winter, redwings, bramblings and fieldfares arrive, ravens begin their mating displaying and peregrines soar over your heads.

LAKE VYRNWY NATURE TRAILS
There are five nature trails ranging from 2 to 5½ miles for all abilities. You can circumnavigate the 12-mile lakeside road, visit the spectacular waterfall in the Rhiwargor valley or enjoy a ramble through ancient woodland and mountains. Or you can simply take a picnic at the side of the lake and soak up the tranquility.

SCULPTURE TRAIL
Walk the award winning Lake Vyrnwy Sculpture Trail with superb works of art dotted around the shores of the lake. Discover artwork by invited international artists alongside the work of local sculptors and temporary pieces by visitors. It began with the ideas of two men - Andy Hancock, a local sculptor, and Andy Hall.

Sculptures include a 30ft pecking order pole of birds found on and around the reserve, plus otters, fresh water dolphins (!) and traditional pole lathes.

CHILDREN'S ACTIVITIES
There's plenty for children too, including organized activities, an easily accessible hide with hundreds of birds visiting the feeders and a wild playground, complete with mud kitchen!

RSPB VISITOR CENTRE
The RSPB Visitor Centre at Lake Vyrnwy is currently closed but plans are in place to re-open in the spring of 2022. There is a cafe, toilets and a craft centre nearby. Parking and entry is free and dogs are allowed on leads.