Top 8 Lakes around Yelling
Best lakes around Yelling, Cambridgeshire, are found in the surrounding region. Yelling is a linear village without major natural lakes, but the broader area features several significant water bodies. These include large reservoirs and nature reserves, many of which originated as former gravel pits. The region provides various opportunities for outdoor activities, from walking routes to cycling trails around these lakes.
Best lakes around Yelling
- The most popular lakes is Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve, a lake formed from…
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Grafham Water
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Godmanchester Nature Reserve
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Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve
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Wildlife Sanctuary Lake
Highlight (Segment) • Natural
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Paxton Pits 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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The cycle path along the top of the dam is wide and flat and gives great views across the reservoir. Reach it from the Visitor Centre at the northern end although access at the southern end is trickier as you have to squeeze through a narrow gap next to a locked gate by the main road.
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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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Good cafe usually busy but plenty of space for bikes and a playpark for youngsters. Great crazy golf course due to open May 2023.
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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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Grafham Water is a reservoir with a circumference of about 16 km (10 mi). It is the eighth largest reservoir in England by volume and the third largest by area. Just a few short miles from Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire, Grafham Water, England's third largest reservoir can be found nestled in 1500 acres of beautiful countryside. Designated as a SSSI the western end features a 280 acre nature reserve and is home to ancient woodlands, reed beds and bird and amphibian species. There are big open spaces to take in the views and facilities include visitor centre and two cafes. Bike hire is also available and there is a trail around the water. It can get muddy at times.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Yelling?
The lakes around Yelling, Cambridgeshire, are primarily former gravel pits and reservoirs. These have been transformed into nature reserves and recreational areas, offering diverse landscapes for outdoor activities. Examples include Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve and Grafham Water.
Are there good walking trails around the lakes near Yelling?
Yes, there are numerous walking trails. For instance, Grafham Water offers an approximately 9-mile route around its perimeter with varied terrain. Wildlife Sanctuary Lake also provides a tranquil waterside walk. You can find more options for easy hikes around the area, such as the Ouse Valley Way loop from Little Paxton, by exploring the Easy hikes around Yelling guide.
Which lakes are suitable for cycling near Yelling?
Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve features an excellent tarmac cycle lane with beautiful water views, providing a link between Huntingdon and Cambridge. Grafham Water also has a popular 9-mile route suitable for cycling, though it includes a mix of gravel, mud, and road surfaces with some inclines. For more cycling routes, check out the Gravel biking around Yelling guide.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities around Yelling?
Several lakes offer family-friendly environments. Grafham Water is noted as family-friendly, and Godmanchester Nature Reserve and Paxton Pits Nature Reserve are also great for families, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and gentle walks.
Where can I go for wildlife spotting near Yelling?
For wildlife spotting, Wildlife Sanctuary Lake is highly recommended for birds and other wildlife. Godmanchester Nature Reserve is known for songbirds, ducks, geese, kingfishers, and overwintering wildfowl. Paxton Pits Nature Reserve is another excellent spot, with kingfishers, nightingales, dragonflies, and butterflies.
What is the terrain like for walks around Grafham Water?
The route around Grafham Water is approximately 9 miles and features a mixture of gravel, mud, and road surfaces. There are some inclines, particularly on the northwest side, making it moderately challenging for some.
Are there any historical sites near the lakes?
Yes, Godmanchester Nature Reserve has a notable Roman heritage. Roman Lake within the reserve was the site of a Roman well discovered during quarrying work in the 1980s.
What amenities are available at Paxton Pits Nature Reserve?
Paxton Pits Nature Reserve offers a visitor centre where you can find refreshments, facilities, and friendly expertise to enhance your visit.
Can I find circular walks around the lakes near Yelling?
Yes, many of the lake areas are designed with circular routes. For example, the 9-mile path around Grafham Water is a popular circular option. You can also find various loop trails in the Hiking around Yelling guide, such as the Papworth Woods loop.
What should I know about visiting Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve?
Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve is known for its scenic cycle lane between a series of lakes. However, be aware that the path can be flooded and unpassable for road bikes between autumn and spring due to its location in the Fens.
Are there any tips for visiting Grafham Water?
Visitors often recommend doing the 9-mile loop around Grafham Water anti-clockwise. This can be faster and helps avoid missing a section that could lead you onto the main road. The site also has Rutland Cycling and two coffee shops. Consider a parking pass if you plan regular visits.
What kind of natural habitats can be found at Paxton Pits Nature Reserve?
Paxton Pits Nature Reserve boasts a wide array of habitats, including beautiful lakes, riverside areas, meadows, reedbeds, scrubland, and woodlands, supporting diverse flora and fauna.
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