Top 7 Lakes around Whittington

The lakes around Whittington, particularly in the Northumberland area, are rich in wildlife. At Bolam Lake, you can spot various bird and animal species, including red squirrels. Colt Crag Reservoir is a haven for birdwatchers, with species like the great crested grebe, cuckoo, whinchat, wheatear, and meadow pipit, as well as badgers and bats. You might also catch a glimpse of herons on the banks of Whittledean Reservoir.

Yes, several lakes around Whittington are suitable for families. Bolam Lake is managed as a country park and offers a mix of lake, wetland, and woodland habitats, perfect for a family outing. Colt Crag Reservoir and Whittledean Reservoir are also considered family-friendly, providing tranquil settings for walks and nature observation. Wydon Burn Reservoir reed bed is another option with natural features to explore.

Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the area around Whittington offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, running, and hiking. For example, there are challenging MTB trails like the 'Bellingham & Hexham loop on the Sandstone Way' and moderate running routes such as the 'Public Toilet – Road to Matfen loop from Great Whittington'. Easy hikes are also available, including the 'Corbridge Bridge – Hugh Percy Fountain loop from Corbridge'. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for MTB Trails, Running Trails, and Easy Hikes around Whittington.

Yes, Kirkharle Serpentine Lake offers a fully accessible 1km pathway that winds through the landscape. This allows visitors to enjoy the park year-round, making it a great option for those seeking easy access to nature.

For birdwatching, Colt Crag Reservoir is a popular spot, known for species like the great crested grebe, cuckoo, whinchat, wheatear, and meadow pipit. Bolam Lake also offers excellent birdlife, and you might see herons at Whittledean Reservoir.

Yes, Bolam Lake Country Park has a cafe with seasonal opening times. It's open from 10:00 - 16:00 between April and September (closed Mon & Tue), and from 10:00 - 15:00 between October and March (closed Mon, Tue & Wed).

Colt Crag Reservoir was built in the late 19th century as part of the drinking water system for Newcastle and Gateshead. It is connected by tunnels and aqueducts to a network of other reservoirs, providing essential water resources to the region.

Many of the lakes around Whittington offer tranquil settings. Colt Crag Reservoir is described as quietly situated, surrounded by woodland and bush, making it ideal for a relaxing stop. Whittledean Reservoir is also noted as a quiet location, perfect for observing nature in peace.

Kirkharle Serpentine Lake is unique because it was designed by the famed landscape architect Lancelot "Capability" Brown, who was born in Kirkharle in 1716. The lake, part of a Grade 2 listed parkland, was finally completed in 2010 based on Brown's rediscovered plans, with over 2,000 trees planted to restore its original glory.

Yes, the area around Whittington's lakes offers cycling opportunities. While specific cycling paths directly around every lake aren't detailed, the broader region has routes like the 'Shaftoe Crags loop from Kirkwhelpington' and 'Newburn Bridge – George Stephenson's Birthplace loop from Stocksfield' which are part of the MTB Trails around Whittington guide. Some quiet lanes near reservoirs, like those around Whittledean Reservoir, are also popular with cyclists.

Visitors appreciate the tranquil natural beauty and the opportunities for wildlife observation. Many enjoy relaxed saunters around lakes like Bolam Lake, noting the abundant birdlife. The quiet settings of reservoirs like Colt Crag Reservoir are valued for peaceful stops and views of the countryside. The komoot community has shown significant appreciation, with more than 10 upvotes and over 10 photos shared by visitors across these locations.