Top 6 Lakes around Thorpe By Water
Best lakes around Thorpe By Water are primarily centered around Rutland Water, the largest man-made lake in the United Kingdom. Thorpe By Water, a village in Rutland, England, offers direct access to this significant body of water. The area features a diverse landscape suitable for various outdoor activities, including walking and cycling. Rutland Water is recognized for its extensive network of paths and its role as a habitat for wildlife.
Best lakes around Thorpe By Water
- The most popular lakes is Rutland Water Cycle Route, a lake and cycle way that offers a picturesque, traffic-free route. This route is very popular and can get busy at weekends.
- Another must-see spot is Eyebrook Reservoir, a natural monument and lake with viewpoints. This reservoir is known for being quieter than nearby Rutland Water, featuring quiet lanes around about half its perimeter.
- Visitors also love East Carlton Country Park, a country park with facilities and small lakes. This 102-acre park contains beautiful woodland, small lakes, and a cafe, offering a blend of natural beauty and amenities.
- Thorpe By Water is known for large reservoirs, country park lakes, and cycle-friendly lake routes. The area provides a variety of lake experiences for different interests.
- The lakes around Thorpe By Water are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 120 upvotes and 7 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Eyebrook Reservoir
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Rutland Water South Shore
Highlight • Viewpoint
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East Carlton Country Park
Highlight • Rest Area
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Barrowden Village Green and Pond
Highlight • Settlement
Two long-distance trails pass through the village: the Jurassic Way and the Rutland Round. Walkers can find fuel and refreshment at the Exeter Arms.
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Blatherwycke Lake
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Tips from the Community
Blatherwycke Lake is part of the estate and not easily accessed. There is a footpath which passes at this point, but the landowners don't like people enjoying the area.
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Nestled in the Welland Valley, Barrowden is an idyllic Rutland village. There is fantastic walking to the north around Rutland Water, while Wakerley Great Wood and Fineshade Wood both boast a network of trails to the southeast. Two long-distance trails pass through the village: the Jurassic Way and the Rutland Round. Walkers can find fuel and refreshment at the Exeter Arms.
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A lovely 102-acre (41 ha) country park, East Carlton is located near the town of Corby. It was once a deer park centred around a historic hall. The present iteration was built in 1870 in an Italianate style with French pavilion roofs. Today, the park contains beautiful woodland, small lakes, a dinosaur safari, a campsite, heritage centre and a cafe.
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Lovely place for a picnic, but be aware that most of the routes out involve some serious climbing for this part of the world. Like Norfolk, not all Rutland is as flat as many think.
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One of the few places many local people are prepared to cycle, using the tracks around Rutland Water which are traffic-free. As Iain says, it can be very busy in summer and at weekends. The Giant store at the car-park is handy if you need an emergency fix, not to mention a new bike or kit. As a committed roadie I often call in at the car-park for a lunch outdoors at the cafe. The roads along the South Shore are much quieter than the A606 along the North Shore.
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Great views from most of the way round. Don’t try and ride up to the reservoir from the south side (between Caldecott and Great Easton) or you’ll get very told off for trespassing at the reservoir wall!
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Quieter than nearby Rutland water. Couple of steep climbs to get back out of the reservoir.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of activities can families enjoy around the lakes near Thorpe By Water?
Families will find several options, particularly around Rutland Water. The Rutland Water Cycle Path is a popular, traffic-free route suitable for children. Additionally, East Carlton Country Park offers a blend of natural beauty with facilities, small lakes, and a cafe, making it a great family destination.
Are there cycling routes available around the lakes?
Yes, cycling is a very popular activity. The Rutland Water Cycle Path is a well-known, picturesque, and traffic-free route around Rutland Water. For more extensive cycling options, you can explore various routes listed in the Road Cycling Routes around Thorpe By Water guide or the MTB Trails around Thorpe By Water guide.
What wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes, especially Rutland Water, are vital habitats for various wildlife. You can often observe ospreys nesting on its shores, making it a prime spot for birdwatching. The surrounding countryside also supports diverse flora and fauna.
Are there good hiking or walking routes around the lakes near Thorpe By Water?
Absolutely. Rutland Water offers an extensive network of paths and trails perfect for walking. For specific easy hikes, consider routes like the 'Eyebrook Reservoir – View of Eyebrook Reservoir loop from Stoke Dry'. You can find more options in the Easy hikes around Thorpe By Water guide.
What water sports are available on the lakes?
Rutland Water is a significant hub for water sports. Visitors can enjoy activities such as sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and fishing, making it a popular destination for enthusiasts.
Are there any quieter lakes or natural spots to visit besides Rutland Water?
Yes, Eyebrook Reservoir is known for being quieter than Rutland Water. It features quiet lanes around about half its perimeter and offers viewpoints, making it a peaceful alternative for those seeking tranquility.
Is there a good time of year to visit the lakes around Thorpe By Water?
The lakes offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports and cycling, while autumn provides picturesque scenery with changing leaves. Winter walks can also be very peaceful, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are there cafes or facilities near the lakes?
Yes, East Carlton Country Park, which features small lakes, has a cafe on-site. Rutland Water also has various visitor centers and cafes located around its perimeter.
Can I bring my dog on walks around the lakes?
Many areas around Rutland Water and other lakes are dog-friendly, with designated paths and trails. However, it's always best to check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in nature reserve areas, and keep dogs on leads where required.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths around the lakes?
While specific details on fully wheelchair-accessible paths for all lakes are not extensively documented, Rutland Water generally offers well-maintained, relatively flat paths in many sections, which may be suitable for wheelchairs. It's advisable to check specific sections or visitor centers for detailed accessibility information.
Where can I find parking near the lakes?
Rutland Water has several car parks located at various points around the lake, such as at the visitor centers and activity hubs. East Carlton Country Park also provides parking facilities for visitors.
What makes Rutland Water a significant lake in the UK?
Rutland Water is notable for being the largest man-made lake in the United Kingdom. Its vast size allows for a diverse range of activities, from water sports to extensive walking and cycling routes, and it serves as a crucial habitat for wildlife, including ospreys.
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