Cannop Ponds

The footbridge at Upper Cannop is being replaced, a footpath diversion is in place. - Find out more here

Visitor information

Enjoy a day by the water at Cannop Ponds

Cannop Ponds are two reservoirs within the Forest of Dean, originally created in 1820s to supply a waterwheel at Parkend Ironworks.

Today, they are used for fishing by the Yorkley Angling Club and the site makes an idyllic spot to view local birdlife. Enjoy the picturesque picnic area overlooking the ponds and look out for the Mandarin ducks, reed warblers and a pair of nesting mute swans.

Walking trails will take you around the ponds or bring your bikes and join the Colliers Trail to explore the wider forest on two wheels.

 

At a glance

A catering unit is at Cannop Ponds 11am - 4pm during school holidays and every weekend throughout the year, serving food, drinks and ice creams. Make sure you try the wild boar hot dogs!
04/11/2024 12:38
Help us prevent wildfire. Never light a BBQ, fire, or camp stove in the forest.
07/10/2024 10:44
Aerial shot of a drill rig on a dam at Cannop Ponds

The Future of Cannop Ponds

The dams and spillways at Cannop Ponds are nearly 200 years old, and so work is being carried out to future-proof the site and address the structural issues that have been found.

Things to do

The Colliers Trail is our family cycling trail - a fully waymarked, circular route, with connecting routes to villages and picnic sites. This route has been especially surfaced and...

Cannop Ponds is one of the best waters in the forest for angling. Managed by Yorkley Angling Club, day permits can be bought on the bank from the Club bailiff or from local tackle...

With several picnic tables scattered along a grassy area, enjoy a tasty treat in the forest at Cannop Ponds. 

Silvia Davis Refreshments are open 11am – 4pm every weekend and daily...

Walking at Cannop Ponds is the perfect way to get some fresh air and explore some of the area's most beautiful landscapes.

 

Lakeside path

A path takes visitors around both...

Nearby forests

Cafe at Beechenhurst in the Forest of Dean

Beechenhurst lies in the heart of the Forest of Dean, one of Britain's oldest and largest woodlands, and is the perfect place to enjoy the Autumn. 

Take in the spectacular colours...

Rider on cycling trail in the Forest of Dean

The Forest of Dean Cycle Centre is the one of the most popular trail centres in the UK. If you're looking for a forest adventure, we have trails for cyclists of all abilities. 

With...

Lakeside view at Mallards Pike

There is something for everyone at this beautiful lakeside setting.

Adrenaline seekers can challenge themselves at Go Ape Tree Top Challenge. For those with energy left to burn...

Family paddling in a brook

Wenchford is a beautiful spot nestled deep within the forest with plenty of picnic tables and an easy access path.

Blackpool Brook trickles through the site under the dappled shade...

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