Best lakes around Pitsford include Pitsford Water, a significant man-made lake created in the 1950s that serves as a vital water supply for Northampton. Spanning over 400 hectares, it is one of the largest bodies of water in the region. The area offers a diverse landscape of woodlands, meadows, and grasslands, with a notable northern section designated as a nature reserve. This destination provides opportunities for outdoor activities and nature observation.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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A good hike on a well maintained wide gravel path, ideal for mums with strollers and wheelchairs. A large carpark and coffee shop make it pleasure to access.
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Pitsford Dam is an expansive reservoir surrounded by countryside. It was completed in the 1950s and serves as a vital water supply for the region. There are walking and cycling paths surrounding the lake and lots of beautiful landscaps and wildlife.
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Ravensthorpe reservoir and weir was built in 1890 to supply water to Northampton. Today you can wander around the beautiful water source and enjoy bird-watching, fishing, or just an opportunity to get some fresh air.
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Great gravel path, perfect place to bring the kids for a bike ride
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Pitsford Water offers a wide range of activities. You can walk or cycle the well-maintained 7-mile circular track, which is suitable for all ages and abilities. It's also a renowned spot for angling, particularly for trout and pike. Water sports like sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking are popular on the calm waters. The northern section is a designated nature reserve, making it excellent for birdwatching, with hides available for observation.
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly amenities. Pitsford Water features picnic areas, playgrounds, and a visitor center. The nearby Brixworth Country Park, which borders Pitsford Water, also has a café and offers activities like a gnome trail and scavenger hunt. The 7-mile circular track around Pitsford Water is flat and surfaced, making it accessible for prams and mobility scooters.
The northern section of Pitsford Water is a designated nature reserve, spanning 181 hectares, and is a prime location for birdwatching. Over 60 species, including great crested grebes and kingfishers, can be spotted there, with bird hides available for discreet observation. Another excellent spot is the Sywell Reservoir Bird Hide, known for its local waterbird life.
The most popular route is the 7-mile circular track around Pitsford Water. It's well-maintained, mostly flat, and surfaced, making it ideal for both walking and cycling. For more options, you can explore various hiking and cycling routes in the area. For detailed routes, check out the Hiking around Pitsford or Gravel biking around Pitsford guides.
Yes, Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir is a notable historical site, built in 1890 to supply water to Northampton. It's a great place to wander and enjoy bird-watching or fishing. Pitsford Water itself, while not as old, is a significant man-made reservoir created in the 1950s for water supply.
The trails around Pitsford Water are generally flat and well-surfaced, making them accessible. For example, the paths around Kislingbury Syndicate Lakes, which are part of Upton Country Park, feature updated gravel paths suitable for walking and cycling.
Yes, the 7-mile circular track around Pitsford Water is well-maintained, mostly flat, and surfaced, making it accessible for prams, wheelchairs, and mobility scooters. There are also accessible gardens with raised beds near the main carpark.
The lakes around Pitsford offer seasonal beauty throughout the year. Spring and summer bring vibrant wildflowers, while autumn transforms the landscape with golden and red hues. Winter offers a serene, frosty beauty. Activities like birdwatching are excellent during migratory seasons, and the well-maintained paths are enjoyable in most weather conditions.
Yes, there is a café located at the top of the main carpark at Pitsford Water. Additionally, the nearby Brixworth Country Park, which borders Pitsford Water, also has a café and visitor center.
Kislingbury Syndicate Lakes are known for their updated gravel paths that run between the fishing lakes. These paths are integrated into the walking and cycling routes of Upton Country Park, offering a pleasant experience for visitors.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Pitsford Water is a renowned spot for angling, particularly for trout and pike, and is regularly stocked. Both boat and bank fishing are available, with an on-site fishing lodge providing permits and tackle. Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir also offers opportunities for fishing.
The Pitsford Water Nature Reserve is home to diverse wildlife, especially birds. You can spot over 60 species, including great crested grebes, kingfishers, and various wildfowl. The area is also managed to support rare plant species, and you'll find a variety of woodland, meadow, and grassland habitats.


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