Cannop Ponds

Visitor information

Enjoy a day by the water at Cannop Ponds

Cannop Ponds are two reservoirs within the Forest of Dean, originally created in the 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 Mandarin ducks, reed warblers and a pair of nesting mute swans.

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

Please note: Swimming and personal water sports are not permitted in any lakes or ponds within the Forest of Dean.

 

At a glance

A catering unit is at Cannop Ponds from 11am to 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!
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.

What's on

Forest event
24 September and 30 September
Hourly sessions from 2pm until 7.30pm
Speech House Hotel, GL16 7EL

Join us at a public engagement event to learn more about our proposed scheme for the future of Cannop Ponds.

The future of Cannop Ponds

We are working to keep Cannop Ponds safe for...

Things to do

The Colliers Trail is our family cycling trail; it is a fully waymarked, circular route, with connecting routes to villages and picnic sites. This route is suitable for all ages...

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 Mark of...

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.

From the car park you can follow the Colliers Trail from...

Nearby forests

A decorated stained glass pane hangs over a forest path.

Escape to Beechenhurst this autumn and immerse your family in the heart of the majestic Forest of Dean, one of Britain's oldest and largest woodlands. If you're looking for...

Rider on cycling trail in the Forest of Dean

The award-winning Forest of Dean Cycle Centre is one of the UK's most popular trail centres. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned pro, we've got the perfect forest ride...

Mallards Pike, a lake within dense forest, as viewed from above

As the seasons change, Mallards Pike offers a beautiful lakeside setting for an autumn day out in the Forest of Dean.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk, an active adventure...

Family paddling in a brook

Wenchford is a hidden gem in the Forest of Dean. It's a great spot to visit if you enjoy nature, relaxation and spending time as a family.

Blackpool Brook trickles through the site...

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