Top 6 Lakes around West Moors
Best lakes around West Moors are found in Dorset, England, an area known for its diverse outdoor recreation opportunities. The region provides access to various lake-based attractions, including dedicated fisheries and expansive country parks. These natural features offer settings for activities such as walking, cycling, and wildlife observation. The landscape around West Moors is characterized by a mix of woodlands and open water, providing a varied environment for visitors.
Best lakes around West Moors
- The most popular lakes is Longham Lakes, a wildlife reserve and fishing lakes that are separated by a narrow causeway. It features a path around the area, suitable for easy walks.
- Another must-see spot is Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve, a series of thriving lakes transformed from former gravel pits. It offers opportunities for fishing, sailing, and wildlife observation, particularly birdwatching from hides.
- Visitors also love Coy Pond, a lake with a paved walkway. This location is suitable for a stroll or a picnic on its riverbanks.
- West Moors is known for fishing lakes, nature reserves, and park lakes. These provide a variety of settings for outdoor activities and natural exploration.
- The lakes around West Moors are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 25 upvotes and 9 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve
Highlight • Viewpoint
Summer is a lovely time of year to visit but in winter, the bird hides come into their own as many flighty folk overwinter here from colder countries further north. Lapwings, terns and oyster catchers throw Christmas parties here. There are public toilets at the north of Ivy Lake and several car parks.
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Longham Lakes
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Coy Pond
Highlight • Lake
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Mockbeggar Lake, Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve
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Ellingham Pound Lake
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Tips from the Community
Mockbeggar Lake within the Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve is a beautiful and peaceful place. The Reserve abounds in birds and is a popular place with bird spotters. There are a number of hides here such as the Lapwing Hide. Great, managed paths allow good views of both Mockbeggar Lake and Ibsley Water. Enjoy!
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A small lake north of Ellingham Lake with easy to walk banks. On a dry day, it is perfectly possible to sit on the grass and enjoy. The buildings next to the lake are the Ellingham Water Ski and Wakeboard Club.
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Longham Lakes are a double lake separated by a narrow causeway. It's managed as a wildlife reserve and fishing lakes. There is a nice path around the area, perfect for an easy walk.
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The delightful Coy Pond is Bournemouth is the perfect place for a stroll. Circle around the lake via a paved walkway lined with willow and alder trees or perch yourself on the green riverbanks for an idyllic picnic.
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Once an area of desolate gravel pits, the landscape here has been utterly transformed by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, in partnership with two water companies. Now a series of thriving lakes with fishing, sailing, youth education and wildlife, there’s a lot going on here despite its general serenity. Summer is a lovely time of year to visit but in winter, the bird hides come into their own as many flighty folk overwinter here from colder countries further north. Lapwings, terns and oyster catchers throw Christmas parties here. There are public toilets at the north of Ivy Lake and several car parks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes around West Moors for walking and easy strolls?
For easy walks, Longham Lakes offers a path around its wildlife reserve and fishing lakes. Coy Pond provides a delightful paved walkway, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. Additionally, Moors Valley Country Park, easily accessible from West Moors, features Moors Lake with various waymarked trails ranging from 0.75 to 5 miles.
Are there family-friendly lakes near West Moors with activities for children?
Yes, Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, which includes Moors Lake, is an excellent family-friendly destination. Beyond the lake, it offers two large adventure play areas, mini golf, Go Ape treetop adventures, and Gruffalo sculptures for younger visitors. Longham Lakes is also considered family-friendly with easy walking paths.
Which lakes are best for fishing near West Moors?
West Moors is well-known for its fishing lakes. Hightown Lake is a top carp venue, also stocked with bream, roach, and tench. Longham Lakes and Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve also offer fishing opportunities. Whitemoor Lakes, a dedicated coarse fishery nearby, boasts several distinct lakes like the Main Lake, Canal Lake, and Chester's Lake, catering to all skill levels with diverse fish populations.
Where can I go birdwatching around the lakes near West Moors?
Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve is an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially in winter when many species overwinter there. It features hides, such as the Lapwing Hide at Mockbeggar Lake within the reserve, providing great views of the birds.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths around the lakes?
Yes, Coy Pond features a paved walkway, making it suitable for wheelchair users. Additionally, the Main Lake at Whitemoor Lakes has 44 permanent pegs, most of which are wheelchair accessible, along with toilet facilities.
What outdoor activities, besides walking, can I do near the lakes?
Beyond walking, you can enjoy various activities. Moors Valley Country Park offers cycling on its trails, and the thrilling Go Ape treetop adventures. Whitemoor Lakes provides watersports like kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding, alongside ground activities such as archery and zip-lining. For more structured routes, you can explore gravel biking routes around West Moors or road cycling routes.
Are there hiking trails near the lakes around West Moors?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. Moors Valley Country Park offers various waymarked trails around Moors Lake. For dedicated hiking, you can find numerous options in the area, including easy routes like 'View of Heather Fields loop from West Moors' or 'Ferndown Forest loop from West Moors'. More options are available in the hiking guide for West Moors.
What natural features can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes around West Moors offer diverse natural beauty. You'll find a mix of woodlands and open water, with features like islands and peninsulas at Whitemoor Lakes. Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve, transformed from gravel pits, now boasts thriving ecosystems. Coy Pond is lined with willow and alder trees, providing a serene environment.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near West Moors?
Summer is a lovely time to visit for general outdoor activities and enjoying the scenic views. However, for birdwatching, winter is particularly rewarding at Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve as many migratory birds overwinter there. Fishing seasons vary, with Moors Lake permitting fishing from June 16th to March 14th.
Are there places to eat or have a picnic near the lakes?
Yes, Moors Valley Country Park has a restaurant and snack kiosks, and visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics to enjoy by Moors Lake. Coy Pond also offers green riverbanks perfect for a picnic.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around West Moors?
Visitors appreciate the diverse outdoor recreation opportunities, from serene walks and picnics to active pursuits like fishing, cycling, and watersports. The natural beauty, wildlife spotting (especially birdwatching at Blashford Lakes), and family-friendly amenities at places like Moors Valley Country Park are frequently highlighted.
Is there parking available at the lakes?
Yes, most major lake attractions have parking facilities. Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve has several car parks, and Moors Valley Country Park also provides ample parking for visitors.
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