Banwen Community Fishery

A modest lake that sits quietly in the Powys countryside, Banwen Community Fishery is run by locals who actually care about keeping the place in decent shape. You're looking at a proper fishing spot - the kind where anglers come for carp and pike rather than tourists wandering about with cameras.

Walking around the perimeter is pleasant enough if you're in the area. It's not a dramatic landscape or anything - just a decent body of water with trees and the occasional bench where you can sit and think. The fishery aspect means it's fairly well maintained, which is more than you can say for some abandoned lakes in Wales.

This is absolutely one for anglers with a rod and licence. If you're not fishing, it's a 20-minute diversion at most, not a destination in itself. Families might find it a bit dull unless the kids are into spotting wildlife or skimming stones. The walks nearby are likely better value.

It's close enough to Swansea that you could take it in as part of a larger Mid Wales circuit, and if you're staying at Four Falls Glamping just down the road, you've got the fishery on your doorstep. Worth knowing about if you're a keen angler planning a few days in Powys, but don't expect much if you're just after a scenic spot. Phone ahead if you're thinking of fishing - permission and fees aren't clear from here.