Best lakes around Frilford offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. While large natural lakes are not directly within Frilford, the area benefits from its proximity to several notable lake destinations. Frilford Heath Golf Club features ponds and fens within its 500 acres, recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). These features contribute to the local natural environment and provide walking routes Frilford Heath lakes.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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Aston’s Eyot is a nature reserve in East Oxford, managed by the charity Friends of Aston’s Eyot. The 32 acre island is formed by the River Thames, the River Cherwell and Shire Lake Ditch. A few decades ago it was a rubbish tip and now it’s a haven for wildlife – a mix of woodland, open area and scrub. You can access and enjoy the nature reserve for free. It’s a great place for a quiet stroll, dog walking, running and watching wildlife https://friendsofastonseyot.org
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Discover this beautiful complex of lakes just outside Abingdon. The lakes were saved from destruction some years ago by a community-led group, Friends of Radley Lakes, and are now a thriving hotspot for local bird and wildlife.
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Well worth the detour for the full English at Oxford boat club
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Add a bit here if you like, with a lap of Thrupp Lake!
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Bikes are Banned from going around Radley lakes :(
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The Radley Lakes complex is an area of former gravel workings which was transformed and saved from destruction in 2008 after a long community-led campaign by the Save Radley Lakes group. The largest lake, Thrupp Lake, is now an important wildlife habitat; in summer try to spot the emergent damselflies and darting dragonflies...
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Farmoor Reservoir is surrounded by beautiful countryside and woodland. The area is home to lots of birdlife, including black-headed gull, Eurasian coot, great cormorant, greylag goose, mute swans, tufted duck, white wagtail, mallard, plus more.
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The immediate Frilford area features ponds and fens within the Frilford Heath Golf Club, recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Further afield, you'll find former gravel workings transformed into wildlife habitats like Thrupp Lake (Radley Lakes), and reservoirs such as Farmoor Reservoir, which are surrounded by countryside and woodland.
Yes, several options cater to families. Thrupp Lake (Radley Lakes) and Farmoor Reservoir are both considered family-friendly. Additionally, Aston's Eyot, an island formed by rivers and Shire Lake Ditch, offers family-friendly walks within its nature reserve. For a wider range of activities, Cotswold Water Park (approx. 23 miles away) and Willen Lake (approx. 38 miles away) provide extensive water-based fun, playgrounds, and more.
The lakes are rich in wildlife. Thrupp Lake (Radley Lakes) is known for its damselflies and dragonflies in summer. Farmoor Reservoir is a great spot for birdwatching, with species like black-headed gulls, Eurasian coots, and mute swans. Aston's Eyot is a haven for various wildlife within its woodland and open areas.
Yes, there are many opportunities for walking and hiking. The Frilford Heath Golf Club area offers walking routes around its fens and ponds. For more structured routes, you can explore various hiking trails in the region. Find detailed routes and guides for hiking around Frilford and easy hikes around Frilford on komoot.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Farmoor Reservoir offers an excellent gravel ride or walk circling the reservoir. You can find various cycling routes in the wider area, including those suitable for touring bicycles. Explore options in the cycling around Frilford guide.
Summer is ideal for spotting damselflies and dragonflies at Thrupp Lake (Radley Lakes). Birdwatching at Farmoor Reservoir is generally good year-round, but specific migratory birds might be more prevalent during spring and autumn. Aston's Eyot is a nature reserve that offers wildlife viewing throughout the year.
While the immediate Frilford lakes are more for nature observation, the Cotswold Water Park, approximately 23 miles away, is an extensive destination offering a wide array of water-based activities including swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Willen Lake in Milton Keynes also provides watersports opportunities.
Visitors appreciate the transformation of former gravel workings into important wildlife habitats, such as Thrupp Lake (Radley Lakes). The peaceful countryside and abundant birdlife at places like Farmoor Reservoir are also highly valued. Many enjoy the quiet strolls and opportunities for wildlife observation in nature reserves like Aston's Eyot.
Yes, Farmoor Reservoir is well-known for its diverse birdlife. For a more serene and dedicated birdwatching experience, Langford Lakes Nature Reserve in Wiltshire (approx. 45 miles away) offers a natural setting ideal for observing various bird species.
Frilford Heath Golf Club features ponds and fens within its 500 acres of heathland, which are recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). While these form part of the golf course landscape, access for non-golfers specifically for walks around these features may be restricted to designated public footpaths or require prior arrangement. For more information on the SSSI, you can refer to Wikipedia's page on Frilford Heath Golf Club.
Many of the paths around the local lakes, such as those at Farmoor Reservoir, are flat and suitable for easy walks or cycling. Nature reserves like Aston's Eyot also offer gentle strolls. For a range of difficulty levels, you can consult the easy hikes around Frilford and general hiking guides.


Still not found your perfect lake around Frilford? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.