Best lakes around Little Houghton include a variety of water bodies offering outdoor activities. The village, located in Northamptonshire, England, features converted gravel pits, now reservoirs, and a section of the Grand Union Canal. These water features contribute to its rural character, providing opportunities for recreation and wildlife observation. The area is recognized for its ecological importance, particularly the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits, which are a Special Protection Area for birds.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
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A good hike on a well maintained wide gravel path, ideal for mums with strollers and wheelchairs. A large carpark and coffee shop make it pleasure to access.
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Pitsford Dam is an expansive reservoir surrounded by countryside. It was completed in the 1950s and serves as a vital water supply for the region. There are walking and cycling paths surrounding the lake and lots of beautiful landscaps and wildlife.
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Great gravel path, perfect place to bring the kids for a bike ride
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Emberton Country Park is blessed with 200 acres (81 ha) of peaceful parkland and shimmering lakes. Beloved by walkers and cyclists alike, there are a number of circular trails on offer. The park also has children's play areas, picnic spots and plenty of places where you can feed the ducks.
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Among the most popular lakes are Pitsford Water, known for its cafe, bike hire, and walking/cycling paths. Visitors also enjoy Kislingbury Syndicate Lakes with its updated gravel paths for cycling and walking, and Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park, which offers various activities and a visitor centre.
Yes, several lakes are family-friendly. Pitsford Water features open grassed areas perfect for picnics and a children's play area. Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park offers a gnome trail, brass rubbing trail, and scavenger hunt, making it engaging for children. Kislingbury Syndicate Lakes also has great gravel paths, perfect for kids on bikes.
The lakes offer diverse natural features. At Sywell Reservoir Bird Hide, you can observe local waterbird life such as Canada Geese, Ring-necked Pheasants, and Great Crested Grebes. Kislingbury Syndicate Lakes are known for their wildlife, and Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park has a visitor centre where you can learn about the park's diverse nature.
The area around Little Houghton offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on routes like the 'Lock gate on the River Nene – Nene Whitewater Centre loop' or 'Turvey Bridge and Village – Olney Pancake Parlour loop'. For hiking, consider routes such as the 'Nene Whitewater Centre loop' or 'Little Houghton Motte – Clifford Hill Motte loop'. Find more details on these activities in the cycling guide and hiking guide for Little Houghton.
Yes, some lakes offer convenient facilities. Pitsford Water has a cafe, public toilets, and bike hire available at the main car park. Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park also provides facilities, including a restaurant and a visitor centre.
Parking is available at several locations. Pitsford Water has a main car park with direct access to facilities. For Sixfields Reservoir, there is handy parking at the far end, providing easy access from the Sixfields leisure park.
Absolutely. Pitsford Water offers main walking and cycling paths around the water, with bike hire available. Kislingbury Syndicate Lakes feature nicely updated gravel paths that are part of Upton Country Park's cycling routes. You can also ride bikes around Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park.
Yes, Pitsford Water is noted as wheelchair accessible and includes an accessible garden with raised beds, ensuring a pleasant experience for all visitors.
Visitors appreciate the variety of activities and natural beauty. Many enjoy the well-maintained walking and cycling paths, the family-friendly amenities like play areas and themed trails, and the opportunities for wildlife observation, especially birdwatching at spots like Sywell Reservoir Bird Hide. The convenience of facilities like cafes and bike hire also adds to the positive experience.
Yes, fishing is an option at some locations. Kislingbury Syndicate Lakes are specifically fishing lakes with updated gravel paths running between them. You can also fish at Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park.
Yes, from Sixfields Reservoir, you can connect with the Northampton canal, which allows you to walk further into town or towards Hatton and Weedon Bec in the other direction.
At Sywell Reservoir Bird Hide, you can expect to find various waterbirds, including Canada Geese, Ring-necked Pheasants, and Great Crested Grebes, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching.


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