Top 9 Lakes around Great Paxton
Best lakes near Great Paxton offer a blend of natural tranquility and active water-based recreation. The area features extensive nature reserves, primarily Paxton Pits, alongside dedicated water sports facilities. These locations provide diverse habitats, opportunities for wildlife observation, and various outdoor activities. The landscape, shaped by former gravel quarries, now includes numerous lakes, riverside areas, and meadows.
Best lakes around Great Paxton
- The most popular lakes is Grafham Water, a cycle_way that is the eighth largest reservoir in England…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Grafham Water
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Godmanchester Nature Reserve
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Wildlife Sanctuary Lake
Highlight (Segment) • Natural
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Paxton Pits Nature Reserve
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Kingfishers and …
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Wildlife Lake Bird Hide
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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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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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Bird hide overlooking the wildlife lake at Hichingbrooke Country Park. Look out for the likes of Cormorant, heron, tern, teal, wigeon, coot, moorhen, great crested grebe and great crested newt amongst many others. Don't forget your binoculars!
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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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Grafham Water is a site of Special scientific Interest covering almost 2000 acres. Built in 1965, it is the 8th largest reservoir in England. The lake hosts a water sport centre and cafe. Making it a great place to take a break.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places for walking and hiking around the lakes near Great Paxton?
For diverse walking experiences, explore Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, which offers the 3.2 km Heron Trail (partially wheelchair-accessible) and the 2.4 km Meadow Trail. The Ouse Valley Way also passes through. Another excellent option is Godmanchester Nature Reserve, known for its superb walks around its lakes and grassland. You can find several easy hiking routes, including loops around Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, in the Easy hikes around Great Paxton guide.
Are there accessible trails for all abilities around Great Paxton lakes?
Yes, Paxton Pits Nature Reserve is committed to accessibility. Its Heron Trail is partially wheelchair-accessible, and the visitor center even offers an electric-powered wheelchair (known as a 'tramper') for use. More information can be found on their official website.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes near Great Paxton?
The lakes are rich in wildlife. Paxton Pits Nature Reserve is famous for its nightingales and cormorants, and is a designated 'Dragonfly Hotspot' in summer. You might also spot otters, kingfishers, various birds, insects, and mammals. Wildlife Sanctuary Lake and Godmanchester Nature Reserve are also excellent for bird and wildlife spotting, including songbirds, ducks, geese, and overwintering wildfowl.
Where are the best spots for birdwatching around Great Paxton?
The prime location for birdwatching is Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, which features three bird hides along its Heron Trail, ideal for viewing water birds. Additionally, the Wildlife Lake Bird Hide at Hinchingbrooke Country Park offers views of cormorants, herons, terns, and various ducks.
What family-friendly activities are available at the lakes?
For active family fun, Southlake Waterpark offers an inflatable aqua park, paddleboarding, and open water swimming. At Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, the Environmental Education Centre provides family-oriented wildlife activities and events, and the trails are suitable for various ages.
Can I go fishing at the lakes near Great Paxton?
Yes, fishing is permitted on Hayling and Rudd Lakes within Paxton Pits Nature Reserve. This is managed in conjunction with Little Paxton Fisheries.
Are there opportunities for water sports near Great Paxton?
Absolutely. Southlake Waterpark is a dedicated water sports zone offering an inflatable aqua park, paddleboarding, open water swimming, and 'behind the boat' activities. Buoyancy aids are mandatory for water activities.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Great Paxton?
The lakes offer different attractions throughout the year. Summer is ideal for water sports at Southlake Waterpark and for spotting dragonflies at Paxton Pits Nature Reserve. Spring and summer also bring wildflowers and butterflies. Colder months are excellent for observing overwintering wildfowl and kingfishers.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest near the lakes?
Yes, Godmanchester Nature Reserve is notable for its Roman heritage. Roman Lake within the reserve was the site of a Roman well discovered during quarrying work in the 1980s, adding a historical layer to your visit.
Where can I find refreshments or facilities near the lakes?
Both Paxton Pits Nature Reserve and Southlake Waterpark have facilities. Paxton Pits has a visitor center open seven days a week, offering refreshments, toilets, and expert advice. Southlake Waterpark provides basic changing facilities, showers, toilets, and an on-site café.
Can I cycle around the lakes near Great Paxton?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Grafham Water features a popular route around the reservoir with varied terrain, including gravel, mud, and road surfaces. You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling around Great Paxton guide.
Is there parking available at the lake destinations?
While specific parking details for each lake are not provided, popular destinations like Paxton Pits Nature Reserve and Grafham Water typically offer parking facilities for visitors. For Grafham Water, a parking pass is available for regular visitors.
Most popular attractions around Great Paxton
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