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Drift Reservoir

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Lakeside, Valley

Birdwatching, Wildlife Watching

Year round

Andy Roberts from East London, England / CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Drift Reservoir is a freshwater reservoir in the countryside west of Penzance, near the hamlet of Drift in Cornwall. It supplies water to the area and draws walkers and birdwatchers, with a bird hide overlooking the shallows where waders and wildfowl gather. A car park gives a view over the water, t...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

5 day, 5 overnight

Casa Tapa Newlyn​, Loafs, Barbican Bistro​

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Drift Reservoir?
West Cornwall holds this expansive body of water just outside Penzance. Anyone searching for peace will find a quiet path along the bank.

What type of place is Drift Reservoir?
Drift Reservoir is a large water body and nature reserve in Cornwall.

When is the best time to visit Drift Reservoir?
Autumn migration months bring the highest number of rare wading birds to these shores. Binoculars provide a much better view during these chilly, crisp days.

What can you do at Drift Reservoir?
Setting up a telescope allows you to track grebes across the glassy surface. People also enjoy walking the surrounding trails to spot migrating wildlife.

How long should I spend at Drift Reservoir?
Spending a couple of hours gives you ample time to explore the shoreline and watch the birdlife. Keen observers often linger longer with their cameras.

Where do I park at Drift Reservoir?
Motorists can use ten designated spaces nearby which provide five day and five overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Drift Reservoir?
Casa Tapa Newlyn, Loafs, and Barbican Bistro offer three spots to grab a bite to eat close to the water. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Drift Reservoir?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near Drift Reservoir, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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