Top 14 Lakes around Hemingford Grey
Best lakes around Hemingford Grey are predominantly former gravel pits, now transformed into varied natural environments. This area, situated near the River Ouse, features several lakes that offer opportunities for watersports, wildlife observation, and angling. The landscape is characterized by open water and surrounding natural habitats, providing a range of outdoor experiences. Many of these sites are now nature reserves, contributing to the region's ecological diversity.
Best lakes around Hemingford Grey
- The most popular lakes is Fen Drayton Lakes Nature…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Far Fen Lake
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Godmanchester Nature Reserve
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Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve
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Wildlife Sanctuary Lake
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Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
Being here three times in the nice weather, I consider this a place where you can reset yourself after your daily routine or others, where you can sit and listen to the seagulls and the geese and any other sound. In the evening the sunset was so astonishing during the summer. I understood the place was becoming muddy after a few days of rain.
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Parking is £2. There is a portaloo and a bin in the carpark. This hike was limited in what you could see, in August the trees and weeds blocked most of the view. For safety note that the pathway takes the narrow road that cars are entering and exiting. There are two crossings over the guided path where the buses are traveling at speed. The first part of the walk by the Ouse was lovely as was the last part on a field where you ton off by the weight limited bridge. I would imagine in winter the path would be a mush pit.
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The cycleway passes between a series of scenic lakes formed from old sand and gravel quarries, now a nature reserve. The path is often flooded and unpassable for road bikes between autumn and spring though.
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The tarmac cycle lane runs parallel to the bus-way, both providing an excellent link between Huntingdon and Cambridge. Cycle-parks at each major bus stop.
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The bus whizzes through the yellow grain landscape like oiled lightning. The intercity bus from Cambridge to St Ivy rolls over a special lane bus track and reaches an impressive speed. Today he transports the four of us to the "Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve", in the lake landscape we hike and do "birdwatching". “Fen Drayton Lakes was originally a flooded sand and gravel pit bordering river floodplains. Today the area is a magnet for a variety of wildlife including otters, dragonflies, ducks, swans and geese. There is something to see (and hear) here all year round.” (https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/fen-drayton-lakes/)
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Like many nature reserves in England, Godmanchester Nature Reserve was once gravel pits. The peaceful nature could not be further away from its industrial history. Keep an eye out for songbirds, ducks, geese, kingfishers and overwintering wildfowl as you run through.
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Part of the RSPB Nature Reserve, Far Fen Lake is recognisable by the island near its eastern shore.
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Amazing cycle lane right through the Fens. Beautiful water views on both sides, an absolute pleasure!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I expect to find around Hemingford Grey?
The lakes around Hemingford Grey are predominantly former gravel pits that have been transformed into diverse natural environments. Many are now nature reserves, offering opportunities for watersports, wildlife observation, angling, walking, and cycling.
Are there opportunities for watersports near Hemingford Grey?
Yes, Lake Ashmore is a prime location for watersports. You can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), wakeboarding, inflatables, and open water swimming. The facility also provides equipment for sale, changing rooms, and refreshments.
Where can I go for fishing around Hemingford Grey?
Hemingford Grey Pit, also known simply as 'Hemingford', is a popular destination for experienced anglers. This 64-acre 'Big Pit' water is renowned for its substantial fish, including huge tench and bream, offering a challenging but rewarding fishing experience.
Which lakes are best for birdwatching and wildlife spotting?
Several lakes are excellent for wildlife. Far Fen Lake, part of the RSPB Nature Reserve, is ideal for birdwatching. Wildlife Sanctuary Lake is also a good area for spotting birds and other wildlife. At Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, you might see kingfishers, nightingales, overwintering wildfowl, dragonflies, and butterflies.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the area?
Yes, Godmanchester Nature Reserve and Paxton Pits Nature Reserve are both considered family-friendly. Wildlife Sanctuary Lake also offers an attractive waterside walk suitable for families. Lake Ashmore, with its range of activities and amenities, is also a welcoming destination for a full day out with family.
Can I find cycling routes around the lakes?
Absolutely. Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve features an amazing cycle lane running through the Fens, offering beautiful water views and excellent links between Huntingdon and Cambridge. For more options, you can explore various cycling routes in the area, including MTB Trails around Hemingford Grey and Gravel biking around Hemingford Grey.
Are there good walking or hiking trails near the lakes?
Yes, many lakes offer pleasant walking opportunities. Godmanchester Nature Reserve and Paxton Pits Nature Reserve are superb places for walks. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the easy 6 km 'Banks of the River Ouse – Houghton Mill loop from Hemingford Grey', by checking the Hiking around Hemingford Grey guide.
What is the historical significance of any of the lakes?
Godmanchester Nature Reserve, like many in the area, occupies the site of a former gravel pit. Its 'Roman Lake' was notably the site of a Roman well discovered during quarrying work in the 1980s. Hemingford Grey Pit also has a history as old gravel workings dating back to the 1940s.
What amenities are available at the lakes?
At Lake Ashmore, you'll find a rustic clubhouse offering light refreshments, watersports equipment for sale, changing rooms, toilets, and a large car park. Paxton Pits Nature Reserve also has a visitor centre with refreshments, facilities, and friendly expertise.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes around Hemingford Grey?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural environments, from the serene waters of nature reserves ideal for birdwatching to active spots like Lake Ashmore for watersports. The cycle lane through Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve is highly praised for its beautiful views. Many also enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to reset in nature, especially during sunset.
When is the best time of year to visit the lakes?
The lakes offer different experiences throughout the year. Spring and summer are vibrant with wildflowers, dragonflies, and butterflies, making them ideal for general outdoor activities. However, some paths, like those at Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve, can be flooded and impassable for road bikes between autumn and spring. For birdwatching, overwintering wildfowl visit during the colder months.
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