Siblyback Lake sits on the edge of Bodmin Moor in Cornwall (postcode PL14 6ER), managed by the South West Lakes Trust. It offers a lovely day out for walkers, families, wheelchair and pushchair users, with a mix of nature, water-based activities, cafe/rest stops, and camping.

Getting There & Parking

• There is a car park at Siblyback Lake. Parking charges apply: around £2.50 for two hours, or £5 for a full day.
• The site is signed from both the A30 and A38 via local brown signs.
• The path from the parking area to many of the key facilities is reasonably level. Surfaces are generally hard-packed around the lake, helping with pushchairs and wheelchair access.

Trails & Walking Routes

• There is a 5 km (≈3-mile) circuit around the lake. The path is described as being suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs and cyclists.
• The walking & cycle route is “hard-packed” for much of the perimeter path, which makes it easier underfoot.
• On longer walks (such as combined walks with Golitha Falls), there are sections which may have steeper gradients or more uneven ground. If doing more than the simple loop, check walk descriptions carefully.

Facilities & Amenities

• Café / Food & Drink
  There is a lakeside cafe (“Olive & Co”) on the site, offering hot/cold food, drinks, and snacks. Perfect for a rest along the walk.
• Toilets & Changing Facilities
  Toilets are available on site. The campsite area has modern showers, changing rooms, and parent & baby wash areas. There are disabled facilities at the campsite.
• Campsite
  Siblyback has a campsite with both electric and non-electric pitches. There are hard-standing and grass pitches. The campsite facilities include the ones noted above (showers, etc.). Note: access for large towable caravans is unsuitable; there is a limit on motorhome size.
• Watersports & Activities
  You can hire equipment for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, or bring your own. Fishing is also possible (bank and boat options), with provisions for disabled anglers.
• Wildlife & Other Features
  There’s a bird hide, open spaces, woodland, scenic views, and plenty of room for picnics. The lake is set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Accessibility Notes & What to Expect

• The 5 km lakeside path is considered one of the more accessible routes in the area: hard-packed, fairly level in most sections, good for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
• Even with generally good surfaces, weather can affect conditions. After heavy rain, some parts may have puddles, softer ground, or minor slip hazards.
• For more adventurous walk options (e.g. longer circuits beyond the lake loop), expect steeper parts, stiles or steps in some areas. Those would likely be less accessible to wheelchairs or pushchairs without assistance.

Tips for Planning Your Visit

1. Wear appropriate footwear even though many paths are hard-packed, terrain can vary, especially after rain.
2. Check opening times for the activity centre/cafe, especially outside peak summer months.
3. Bring supplies while there’s a café, having water, snacks with you is wise if you plan to stay some time or walk the full loop.
4. Book any water activity in advance, especially boats or hire equipment. Some needs, like fishing boat safety inductions, are required.
5. For camping stays, check whether your vehicle meets size restrictions, and be prepared for more rustic access paths in parts of the campsite.
6. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads.

Why Siblyback-Lake is Worth a Visit

Siblyback Lake is a beautiful, inclusive outdoor spot: a large reservoir with scenic views, water-based activities, and walking trails that many ability levels can enjoy. Whether you’re after a flat, relaxing lakeside stroll, time outdoors with family and dogs, or more adventurous walks or water sports, it delivers. It strikes a good balance between natural beauty, facilities, and accessibility.

Explore more with us:

• Visit Gwenin for a curated selection of frameworks
• Browse Spiralmore collections
• Read our Informal Blog for relaxed insights
• Discover Deconvolution and see what’s happening