Top 4 Lakes around Kneeton
Best lakes around Kneeton are found within the wider Nottinghamshire county, as the small village of Kneeton itself does not feature major lakes. The surrounding area offers various natural lakes and country parks, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. These locations are within a reasonable driving distance from Kneeton, offering diverse landscapes and recreational options. The region is characterized by its blend of reclaimed industrial sites turned nature reserves and established country parks.
Best lakes around Kneeton
- The most popular lakes is Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve, a viewpoint that features two gravel ponds, originally coal slurry pits, now reclaimed for wildlife. The larger, shallower tank attracts waders, gulls, and terns, while the smaller, deeper tank draws wildfowl and warblers.
- Another must-see spot is Kingfisher Lodge, a restaurant and cafe located near a lake. It offers cooked breakfasts, homemade cakes, and welcomes cyclists, providing good food and quick service.
- Visitors also love Balderton Lake, a reclaimed sand and gravel pit that now includes a wooded area and grassland with walkways. It is a scenic spot for walking and exploring nature.
- Kneeton is known for its natural lakes, reclaimed gravel pits, and country park lakes. These offer a variety of experiences, from nature observation to walking trails.
- The lakes around Kneeton are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 20 upvotes and 4 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve
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The Netherfield Lagoons, Local Nature Reserve is situated on the Trent Valley Flood Plain in Nottinghamshire and has been partly used as a dump for coal slurry but with two remaining gravel ponds. The two slurry pits are separated by a raised causeway, which is elevated some 50 feet (15 m) above the pits, giving a commanding view of the area. The largest tank is virtually full but retains some water, with muddy edges attractive to waders and roosting gulls and terns. The smaller tank is mainly deep water, attracting good numbers of wildfowl, with smaller birds, especially warblers, feeding and breeding around the tank edges. The site consists roughly of three compartments, the Slurry Lagoon, the Deep Pit and the two Gravel Pits.
(source: gedlingconservationtrust.org/netherfield-lagoons/)
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Kingfisher Lodge
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Balderton Lake
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Lambley Reed Pond
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Trent Carp Fisheries Lake
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Tips from the Community
Remember the iconic orange "Hoveringham" Trucks? They transported the Gravel which was dug out of these pits. Now filled in they are home to Trent Carp Fisheries.
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A Local Nature Reserve in Nottinghamshire The Netherfield Lagoons, Local Nature Reserve is situated on the Trent Valley Flood Plain in Nottinghamshire and has been partly used as a dump for coal slurry but with two remaining gravel ponds. The two slurry pits are separated by a raised causeway, which is elevated some 50 feet (15 m) above the pits, giving a commanding view of the area. The largest tank is virtually full but retains some water, with muddy edges attractive to waders and roosting gulls and terns. The smaller tank is mainly deep water, attracting good numbers of wildfowl, with smaller birds, especially warblers, feeding and breeding around the tank edges. The site consists roughly of three compartments, the Slurry Lagoon, the Deep Pit and the two Gravel Pits. (source: https://www.gedlingconservationtrust.org/netherfield-lagoons/)
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Lambley Parish Council have recently completed on the purchase of Lambley Reed Pond, a site of approximately 5 acres in the heart of the village, an area of natural beauty and a haven for wildlife.
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Balderton Lake is a reclaimed sand and gravel pit which now also features a wooded area and grassland with walkways.
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Mostly a hard packed dirt track (so probably not so good in winter) that runs between the two lanes with the occasional nice view of the lake
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Good menu with plenty of choice. Loads of outdoor seating. Quick service and not expensive. There is a gravel road you need to ride to get to the lodge, it’s easy enough on a road bike.
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Think this is now called Kingfisher lodge. Good food, quick service and fair pricing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular lakes for walking and nature observation near Kneeton?
While Kneeton itself doesn't have major lakes, the surrounding Nottinghamshire area offers several excellent options. Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve is highly regarded for its wildlife, especially birds, and offers commanding views from a raised causeway. Another scenic spot for walking and exploring nature is Balderton Lake, a reclaimed sand and gravel pit with wooded areas and walkways.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Nottinghamshire area accessible from Kneeton?
Yes, several lakes near Kneeton are great for families. Colwick Country Park, with its two main lakes, offers children's play areas, educational facilities, and well-maintained pathways suitable for wheelchairs and scooters. Langold Country Park Lake is another excellent family destination, featuring a seasonal splash park, play areas, and a cafe. Highfields Lake within Highfields Park also provides a cafe and children's play facilities.
Where can I go for birdwatching near Kneeton?
For excellent birdwatching, head to Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve. This Local Nature Reserve is known for attracting a diverse range of birdlife, including waders, gulls, terns, wildfowl, and warblers, especially around its two gravel ponds.
Are there opportunities for water sports or active recreation at lakes near Kneeton?
Absolutely. Colwick Country Park's West Lake is a hub for water sports, offering open water swimming, canoeing, and sailing during organized sessions. Spring Lakes in Long Eaton is another prime location for active water-based fun, featuring an Aqua Park, wakeboarding, inflatable riding, swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Which lakes near Kneeton offer good fishing opportunities?
Anglers have several great choices. Smeaton's Lakes near Newark-on-Trent provides extensive fishing across five lakes and seven pegs on the River Trent, with facilities for night fishing. Vicar Water Country Park in Clipstone features Vicar Pond, a large fishing lake that is now a thriving coarse fishery. Colwick Country Park's West Lake is also stocked for carp fishing.
Are there accessible paths around lakes near Kneeton for visitors with mobility needs?
Yes, Colwick Country Park offers well-maintained pathways suitable for wheelchairs and scooters. Smeaton's Lakes also provides easily accessible pegs for disabled visitors, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Kneeton?
The lakes around Kneeton offer different experiences throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports, picnics, and enjoying lush greenery. Autumn provides beautiful foliage for walks, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, though some paths might be less suitable in wet or icy conditions. Always check local conditions before visiting.
Can I find cafes or places to eat near the lakes?
Yes, several locations offer refreshments. Kingfisher Lodge is a popular restaurant and cafe near a lake, known for cooked breakfasts and homemade cakes. Highfields Park has a cafe, and Vicar Water Country Park features Rumbles Café. Langold Country Park also includes a cafe, and Spring Lakes has an on-site cafe.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes around Kneeton are rich in wildlife. At Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve, you can spot various birds, including waders, gulls, terns, wildfowl, and warblers. Colwick Country Park is known for its diversity of wildlife, including butterflies, dragonflies, and various migratory birds. Tranquil spots like Balderton Lake also offer opportunities to observe local wildlife.
What are some options for hiking and walking trails near the lakes around Kneeton?
Many lakes offer excellent walking opportunities. Colwick Country Park and Vicar Water Country Park both have well-maintained paths suitable for walking and cycling. For more structured routes, you can explore various hiking trails in the wider area. Find detailed routes and guides at Hiking around Kneeton.
Are there specific lakes suitable for cycling near Kneeton?
Yes, Colwick Country Park offers good cycling paths. For dedicated cycling routes that incorporate scenic lake views or pass near them, you can explore the various MTB and road cycling guides available. Check out options at MTB Trails around Kneeton and Road Cycling Routes around Kneeton.
Are dogs allowed at the lakes near Kneeton?
Many country parks and natural reserves in Nottinghamshire are dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be kept on a lead in certain areas to protect wildlife. It's always best to check the specific rules for each park before visiting, as policies can vary.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Kneeton?
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences offered by the lakes. Many enjoy the peaceful environment for nature observation and walking, particularly at places like Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve and Balderton Lake. The family-friendly facilities and water sports at locations like Colwick Country Park and Spring Lakes are also highly valued. The komoot community has shared over 4 photos and given more than 20 upvotes, highlighting the area's appeal.
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