Llanishen Reservoir is a Victorian reservoir in north Cardiff, Wales. The reservoir is one of the reservoirs constructed as part of the Taff Fawr scheme for supplying water to Cardiff and was completed in 1886. It forms part of the Nant Fawr Corridor from the top of Roath Park to the countryside beyond Cyncoed.
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Lisvane & Llanishen Reservoirs – A Beautiful Escape in Cardiff
Located in the north of Cardiff, Lisvane & Llanishen Reservoirs offer a stunning natural retreat, perfect for walking, relaxing, and wildlife spotting. After a major restoration project, the reservoirs reopened to the public and have quickly become a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike.
What to Expect: • Walking Trails: There is a beautiful circular walk around Llanishen Reservoir (approximately 2.5km long), offering peaceful waterside views. The paths are well-maintained, accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs, and great for a relaxed stroll or light exercise. • Water Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are available (subject to membership or booking). Equipment hire and lessons are also offered. • Nature and Wildlife: The reservoirs are home to a rich variety of bird species and other wildlife. It’s a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its biological importance. • Café and Visitor Centre: There is a modern visitor centre with a café serving drinks, cakes, and light bites. Perfect for a rest after your walk. • Play Area: A small but well-designed play area is available for children. • Parking: Ample parking is available on-site (charges may apply). There are also bike racks for cyclists. • Facilities: Toilets, baby changing areas, and seating areas are provided.
Good to Know: • Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads around the reservoir paths. • Opening times vary slightly depending on the season — it’s best to check ahead. • No swimming is allowed in the reservoirs for safety reasons. • Events and seasonal activities (like nature walks and educational sessions) are held throughout the year.
Location: Lisvane & Llanishen Reservoirs, Lisvane Road,...
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A lovely visit if you drive...
This is the second time I've visited. On this occasion I arrived on push bike with some friends. As we were dismounting we were informed by security that we are not allowed to ride our bikes on the path which is a strange thing to say to someone currently dismounting. What are we supposed to do? Dismount in the middle of the road? That's not very safe.
As we walked towards the outdoor seating of the cafe another security member informed us that we were not allowed to wheel our bikes there. We explained that we only wished to sit outside but this is also not allowed it seems. There wasn't any signage advising on what was allowed or not so best to call ahead to check.
We came to the agreement that we could sit at picnic benches. These were at the bottom of a steep hill with no easy access to the cafe. There's no shielding from the weather here and the floor tripped us up on more than one occasion.
Overall a very hostile reception, it's clear that this venue does not want customers that do not arrive by car.
The café itself is okay, prices for coffee are reasonable at £3-4 for a cup. Cake was dry on both occasions I visited so I wouldn't go for that unless you really want to. Staff are friendly despite the chaotic atmosphere, the cafe tends to be very busy.
The reservoir is a lovely walk which isn't that long, you'll be able to do it in an hour so ideal for everyone. Just make...
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Visited here today and it was very busy. We decided to take a walk around the large reservoir as it was a beautiful day; the sun was shining, the sky was blue, and there was a lovely breeze coming across the water.
We were about 3/4 of our way around the reservoir when a woman almost run towards us and told us we weren't allowed to walk on the grass, just on the pathway! We had only stepped onto the grass to avoid the muddy puddles that had accumulated on the pathway and would have ruined our trainers.
The same woman then turned and told a young couple who were sitting on the grass bank overlooking the reservoir that they weren't allowed to sit on the grass bank, only on the benches that were provided.
This really spoiled the visit for us as it seemed so unnecessary, and the woman seemed to be taking great delight in telling people off.
Having lived on Penarth Marina for over 20 years I regularly visited the Barrage and visitors were allowed to sit on the grass, sunbathe, have picnics and play with their children. The space was used to chill, relax and have fun...which is what a green open space should be.
I understand that grass wears with lots of visitors walking on it, but if Cardiff Barrage can manage it, then why can't the Reservoirs who probably have a tiny fraction of the visitors who regularly spend time on...
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