Llyn Alaw

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Anglesey

Wales

Llyn Alaw

Public footpath along the south shore of Llyn Alaw Interestingly, on maps just a few years old, this is not marked as a right of way, though a kilometre behind the photographer, a short stretch was marked as a public footpath. On the current online mapping the right of way extends further along the shore (throughout most of this kilometre square, in fact) but still stops short of connecting to the shore access path at Penwerthyr. Signage on the shore suggests that it is all public right of way, though the continuing shoreline path beyond the access is apparently not. Although the day this photo was taken was hot and dry, there had been a wet summer, so the vegetation is luxuriant, and in places, the path very wet underfoot. Some of the fencing is poorly maintained, so west of us here, sheep had burgled under the wires to gain access to the reservoir, much to the chagrin of the dog, who promptly went back on her lead.
Public footpath along the south shore of Llyn Alaw Credit: Andy Waddington

Llyn Alaw is a freshwater lake located in the heart of Anglesey, an island in North Wales. Covering an area of approximately 770 acres, it is one of the largest lakes on the island. The lake is situated in a low-lying area, surrounded by rolling hills and agricultural farmland.

Known for its tranquility and natural beauty, Llyn Alaw attracts visitors and locals alike. It serves as a popular spot for various recreational activities such as fishing, birdwatching, and walking. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including pike, perch, and brown trout, making it a haven for anglers. Fishing enthusiasts can be seen lining the banks, enjoying the peacefulness and the chance to catch their dinner.

Llyn Alaw also plays a crucial role in supporting a diverse range of bird species. The lake and its surrounding wetland areas provide a vital habitat for waterbirds, including ducks, swans, and herons. Birdwatchers can often spot these species, particularly during the winter months when the lake becomes a temporary residence for migratory birds.

Aside from its recreational and ecological significance, Llyn Alaw also serves as a freshwater reservoir, providing water to the local communities on the island. The lake is managed by Dwr Cymru Welsh Water, ensuring the sustainability and quality of the water supply.

Overall, Llyn Alaw is a picturesque and ecologically important freshwater lake, offering a serene setting for outdoor activities and supporting a diverse range of wildlife.

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Llyn Alaw Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.351062/-4.4210616 or Grid Reference SH3886. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Public footpath along the south shore of Llyn Alaw Interestingly, on maps just a few years old, this is not marked as a right of way, though a kilometre behind the photographer, a short stretch was marked as a public footpath. On the current online mapping the right of way extends further along the shore (throughout most of this kilometre square, in fact) but still stops short of connecting to the shore access path at Penwerthyr. Signage on the shore suggests that it is all public right of way, though the continuing shoreline path beyond the access is apparently not. Although the day this photo was taken was hot and dry, there had been a wet summer, so the vegetation is luxuriant, and in places, the path very wet underfoot. Some of the fencing is poorly maintained, so west of us here, sheep had burgled under the wires to gain access to the reservoir, much to the chagrin of the dog, who promptly went back on her lead.
Public footpath along the south shore of Llyn Alaw
Interestingly, on maps just a few years old, this is not marked as a right of way, though a kilometre behind the photographer, a short stretch was marked as a public footpath. On the current online mapping the right of way extends further along the shore (throughout most of this kilometre square, in fact) but still stops short of connecting to the shore access path at Penwerthyr. Signage on the shore suggests that it is all public right of way, though the continuing shoreline path beyond the access is apparently not. Although the day this photo was taken was hot and dry, there had been a wet summer, so the vegetation is luxuriant, and in places, the path very wet underfoot. Some of the fencing is poorly maintained, so west of us here, sheep had burgled under the wires to gain access to the reservoir, much to the chagrin of the dog, who promptly went back on her lead.
Beach on Llyn Alaw Whilst attractive above water, below the surface, a heavy growth of algae coated the bottom, making it unattractive for paddling - for humans. The dog had no such qualms on this rather rare hot sunny day in summer 2021. Although we met no-one on our walk, there is clearly enough visitation to generate fierce signs at the end of the tiny approach road about vehicle access, and there is evidence of careless barbecue or picnic fire users in scarring on the ground. Perhaps more of an evening venue ?
Beach on Llyn Alaw
Whilst attractive above water, below the surface, a heavy growth of algae coated the bottom, making it unattractive for paddling - for humans. The dog had no such qualms on this rather rare hot sunny day in summer 2021. Although we met no-one on our walk, there is clearly enough visitation to generate fierce signs at the end of the tiny approach road about vehicle access, and there is evidence of careless barbecue or picnic fire users in scarring on the ground. Perhaps more of an evening venue ?
St Pabo's Church, Llanbabo
St Pabo's Church, Llanbabo
Scene from road near Llanbabo On the way to Llanddeusant. Only a part of what is a large site of Llyn Alaw windfarm appears in the centre.
Scene from road near Llanbabo
On the way to Llanddeusant. Only a part of what is a large site of Llyn Alaw windfarm appears in the centre.
View through the hedge above Llyn Alaw The building across this reservoir lake is the pumping station.
View through the hedge above Llyn Alaw
The building across this reservoir lake is the pumping station.
Southern end of Llyn Alaw Reservoir There is supposed to be a picnic area, car park, toilets and information board on this shore of the manmade lake but all of it appears is lost.
Southern end of Llyn Alaw Reservoir
There is supposed to be a picnic area, car park, toilets and information board on this shore of the manmade lake but all of it appears is lost.
Church of St Pabo, Llanbabo A little medieval church located in a quiet part of Anglesey. The dedication to St Pabo is unusual, Pabo apparently born in the 5thC AD, the son of a chieftain in what is now Scotland.
Church of St Pabo, Llanbabo
A little medieval church located in a quiet part of Anglesey. The dedication to St Pabo is unusual, Pabo apparently born in the 5thC AD, the son of a chieftain in what is now Scotland.
St Pabo's Church - doorway Legend has it that the three faces over the doorway are those of Pabo with his son and daughter. The carved faces and the voussoirs [zig-zag patterns] are unusual in a Welsh church and appear to have been repositioned from the original chancel arch. They are dated as 12thC.
St Pabo's Church - doorway
Legend has it that the three faces over the doorway are those of Pabo with his son and daughter. The carved faces and the voussoirs [zig-zag patterns] are unusual in a Welsh church and appear to have been repositioned from the original chancel arch. They are dated as 12thC.
The Church of St Pabo at Llanbabo Viewed from the north.
The Church of St Pabo at Llanbabo
Viewed from the north.
Partly furnished just requires a roof and secure access Double glazing and cavity wall insulation comes extra and in time.
Off road parking a possibility.
Partly furnished just requires a roof and secure access
Double glazing and cavity wall insulation comes extra and in time. Off road parking a possibility.
Abandoned property near Yr-Ynys
Abandoned property near Yr-Ynys
Bryn Pabo crossroads According to the signpost <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/6096491">SH3888 : Signpost at Bryn Pabo crossroads</a>, south is Llanbabo, north is Carreglefn and west is Mynyddmechell. East is unsigned. On the southeast corner is a postbox <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/6096493">SH3888 : E II R postbox (LL66 168)</a>.
Bryn Pabo crossroads
According to the signpost SH3888 : Signpost at Bryn Pabo crossroads, south is Llanbabo, north is Carreglefn and west is Mynyddmechell. East is unsigned. On the southeast corner is a postbox SH3888 : E II R postbox (LL66 168).
Signpost at Bryn Pabo crossroads 
According to the signpost at Bryn Pabo crossroads <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/6096446">SH3888 : Bryn Pabo crossroads</a>, south is Llanbabo, north is Carreglefn and west is Mynyddmechell. East is unsigned.
Signpost at Bryn Pabo crossroads
According to the signpost at Bryn Pabo crossroads SH3888 : Bryn Pabo crossroads, south is Llanbabo, north is Carreglefn and west is Mynyddmechell. East is unsigned.
E II R postbox (LL66 168) 
At Bryn Pabo crossroads <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/6096446">SH3888 : Bryn Pabo crossroads</a>.
E II R postbox (LL66 168)
At Bryn Pabo crossroads SH3888 : Bryn Pabo crossroads.
Ruin on the hillside The ruined farmhouse at Pen-y-bryn.
Ruin on the hillside
The ruined farmhouse at Pen-y-bryn.
Marshy hollow near Pen-y-bryn A small stream begins life somewhere in this marshy area and makes its way north into Llyn Alaw which is visible in the distance.
Marshy hollow near Pen-y-bryn
A small stream begins life somewhere in this marshy area and makes its way north into Llyn Alaw which is visible in the distance.
The church of St Pabo at Llanbabo
The church of St Pabo at Llanbabo
The road to Carreglefn at Llanbabo
The road to Carreglefn at Llanbabo
Show me another place!

Llyn Alaw is located at Grid Ref: SH3886 (Lat: 53.351062, Lng: -4.4210616)

Unitary Authority: Isle of Anglesey

Police Authority: North Wales

What 3 Words

///toenail.exile.eclipses. Near Llanerchymedd, Isle of Anglesey

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Llyn Alaw

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