🚗 Lanner Reservoir Car Park – The Complete Redruth TR16 5SZ Guide
Free parking at Lanner Reservoir – 24/7 access, level bays, Blue Badge spaces & direct paths to waterside walks, picnic spots & cycle routes.
🚗 Overview
Type: Free Public Surface Car Park (Managed by Cornwall Council)
Open: 24 hours/day, 7 days/week
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.2/5 (visitor feedback)
💰 Tariffs & Permits
Cost: Free (no pay-and-display, no permits)
Blue Badge Holders: Free unlimited stay – display badge + time clock
Overnight Parking: Permitted at owner’s risk; bays unmonitored
📊 Capacity & Physical Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Bays | Approx. 20 marked bays |
| Disabled Bays | 2 bays nearest reservoir access |
| Surface | Level compacted gravel |
| Lighting | None – bring torch after dusk |
| Security | Occasional ranger patrols; no formal CCTV |
| Height Limit | None |
♿ Accessibility
Blue Badge Bays: 2 designated bays closest to main path
Drop-off Zone: Informal lay-by beside entrance gate (max 10 min)
Paths: Well-graded firm track around reservoir suitable for wheelchairs
🔌 EV Infrastructure
On-Site Charging: None
Nearest Chargers:
Redruth Station car park (Pod Point, 4×7 kW) – 3 mi west
Pool P&R (Shell Recharge, 2×50 kW) – 4 mi south-east
📅 Peak Times & Occupancy
| Timeframe | Occupancy | Typical Users |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays 09:00–11:00 | 60 % | Early walkers & dog owners |
| Weekdays 12:00–14:00 | 40 % | Picnic visitors & anglers |
| Weekdays 16:00–18:00 | 50 % | After-work leisure |
| Weekends & Holidays | 80 % | Families & weekend hikers |
Pro Tip: Arrive early on weekends to snag waterside bays for all-day visits.
🚶 Walkability & Recreation
| Destination | Walk Time | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Reservoir Waterside Loop | <1 min | 1.5 mi circular, picnic tables & benches |
| Nature Trail & Bird Hide | 5 min | Wildlife watching in reed beds |
| Cycle Path to Redruth | 10 min | Traffic-free route into town |
| Lanner Village Centre | 8 min | Village shop, café & public toilets |
🛒 Nearby Amenities
ATM: NatWest & HSBC in Redruth town centre (3 mi)
Pharmacy: Boots (Station Road, Redruth)
Food & Drink:
Lanner Arms (village pub, 10 min walk)
Seasonal café van at reservoir weekends
Public Toilets: At reservoir picnic area (locked after dusk)
🅿️ Alternative Parking Comparison
| Site | Distance | Cost | Stay | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redruth Station Car Park | 3 mi | £2/day | 24 h | EV charging & rail links |
| Pool Park & Ride | 4 mi | £1.50/day | 24 h | Rapid EV chargers & bus into Redruth |
| On-Street Bays (Lanner Rd) | Adjacent | Free | 2 h max | Quick village errands |
⚠️ Important Notices
No Lighting: Bring a torch or headlamp if staying after dark.
Surface Conditions: Gravel can be slippery when wet – wear sturdy footwear.
No Enforcement: While parking is unmonitored, obstructive or abandoned vehicles may be removed.
📌 Expert Tips
Wildlife Watchers: Early morning visits give best chance to see waterfowl at the hide.
Family Days Out: Combine with a cycle into Redruth followed by lunch in the town.
Blue Badge Hack: Use nearest bay to access path directly without navigating gravel.
🔮 Future Developments
2025: Cornwall Council exploring solar LED bollards installation for low-light safety.
2026: Proposal under review to add 2 covered cycle shelters adjacent to car park.
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