Best lakes around West Haddon are found in the surrounding Northamptonshire area, a region known for its countryside and water bodies. While West Haddon itself is a village, nearby fishing lakes and nature reserves offer various recreational opportunities. These locations provide natural landscapes for outdoor activities, featuring both natural and man-made reservoirs. The area is appreciated for its scenic beauty and diverse water-based activities.
Last updated: August 8, 2026
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This lovely flat path that runs around the entire reservoir makes for an ideal running spot. You will be treated to a diverse range of wildlife, excellent views, and numerous idyllic spots to stop and catch your breath.
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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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Idyllic spot for a picnic as well as a regular hang-out spot for some of our feathered friends such as geese and swans, and some rarer species such as the ring-necked duck and common crane.
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Built to supply water to the nearby Grand Union Canal, Welford and Sulby Reservoirs are wonderfully scenic. Keep your eyes peeled for carp beneath the surface. A loop of Welford Reservoir is an easy walk from nearby Welford, where there are also peaceful walking options along the canal.
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Daventry Country Park is a popular park ideally situated in the urban fringe of Daventry, within one mile of the town centre and easily accessible by car, bicycle or on foot with the benefit of cycle ways and footpaths from the surrounding areas. With a large reservoir, a cafe selling hot and cold food, an adventure playground, outdoor gym equipment, numerous picnic spots, a nature trail, accessible bird hides, and a wealth of wildlife, Daventry Country Park is a great family day out. The Park has been awarded the Country Parks Accreditation and also holds a Green Flag Award recognising it as being among the best green spaces in the country.
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Visitors frequently enjoy Daventry Country Park Reservoir, which features a large reservoir, cafe, and adventure playground. Another popular spot is Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park, known for its range of activities and natural setting. Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir is also appreciated for bird-watching and fresh air.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Daventry Country Park Reservoir offers an adventure playground, cafe, and picnic spots. Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park has a visitor centre, restaurant, and even a gnome trail. Stanwick Lakes, a larger nature reserve, also provides play areas, a visitor center, and a cafe.
The lakes offer diverse natural features, from expansive reservoirs like Daventry Country Park Reservoir and Pitsford Water to more secluded spots. You can find areas for birdwatching, such as at Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir and the Lakeside Picnic and Birdwatching Spot, where you might see swans, geese, and rarer species. Many locations are set within mature woodlands or countryside, offering scenic views.
Absolutely. The area is well-known for its fishing lakes. Foxholes Fisheries offers four secluded lakes, three for specimen carp and one for general coarse fishing. Wold Farm Fishery is a 70-acre complex with coarse/match fishing lakes and a dedicated specimen lake for carp and catfish. Grendon Lakes also provides various fishing opportunities, including day ticket coarse fishing and members-only carp waters.
Beyond walking, you can enjoy cycling around lakes like Pitsford Water and Stanwick Lakes. Wold Farm Fishery offers air rifle and clay pigeon shooting. Many lakes also provide opportunities for bird-watching. For more structured activities, you can explore road cycling routes around the area, such as those found in the Road Cycling Routes around West Haddon guide.
Yes, many lakes offer excellent walking trails. Daventry Country Park Reservoir has a nice trail around the lake. A loop of Welford Reservoir is an easy walk. Stanwick Lakes, a 750-acre nature reserve, features extensive walking trails. You can find more detailed hiking options in the Easy hikes around West Haddon guide, including a route around Ravensthorpe Reservoir.
The lakes are generally enjoyable year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and summer are ideal for walking, cycling, and picnics, with warmer weather and lush scenery. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, especially around areas like Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir for fresh air.
Many of the outdoor areas and trails around the lakes are dog-friendly, though specific rules may vary by location. For instance, Daventry Country Park Reservoir and Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park are generally welcoming to dogs, often requiring them to be on a lead. It's always best to check individual site regulations before visiting.
Yes, Stanwick Lakes is a significant 750-acre nature reserve and countryside attraction in the Nene Valley. It's not solely focused on fishing but offers extensive walking and cycling trails, play areas, and a visitor center, making it a great choice for those seeking a broader range of outdoor activities in a natural setting.
Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park is popular due to its diverse offerings. Visitors can ride bikes around the lake, fish, walk, and dine at the restaurant. It also features a visitor centre that provides information on the park's diverse nature, a gnome trail, a brass rubbing trail, and a scavenger hunt, making it engaging for all ages.
For birdwatching, Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir is a good choice, known for its opportunities to observe various bird species. The Lakeside Picnic and Birdwatching Spot is specifically highlighted as an idyllic location for a picnic and observing feathered friends like geese, swans, and even rarer species.
Yes, there are several easy walking options. The trail around Daventry Country Park Reservoir is considered nice and accessible. An easy loop walk can be done around Welford Reservoir. For more options, consult the Easy hikes around West Haddon guide, which includes routes like the Ravensthorpe Reservoir walk.


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