Best lakes around Boughton offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The region features a mix of man-made reservoirs and natural lakes, providing settings for various outdoor activities. Visitors can find areas suitable for walking, cycling, and wildlife observation. The terrain around these lakes is generally accessible, with some paths designed for family-friendly exploration.
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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The lakes around Boughton offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, and mountain biking on numerous trails. For example, Pitsford Water provides a main walking and cycling path, and Kislingbury Syndicate Lakes feature updated gravel paths for walking and cycling. Many lakes are also excellent for bird-watching and fishing. Some locations like Spring Lakes and Hawton Waters offer water sports such as wakeboarding, paddleboarding, and open-water swimming.
Yes, there are many walking trails. Pitsford Water has a main walking path, and Kislingbury Syndicate Lakes are part of Upton Country Park's walking routes. Rufford Lake, near Ollerton and Boughton, features a crushed limestone path around the lake, mostly flat and accessible. You can find easy hikes around Boughton, including routes like 'Brampton Valley Way – Brampton Valley Way loop from Boughton' and 'Green Fields Near Northampton – Harlestone Firs loop from Spring Park'. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Boughton guide.
Absolutely. Many lakes offer excellent cycling opportunities. Pitsford Water has a dedicated cycling path, and Kislingbury Syndicate Lakes are integrated into cycling routes within Upton Country Park. Clumber Park, near Boughton, Nottinghamshire, boasts over 20 miles of traffic-free cycle paths. You can also find various cycling routes around Boughton, such as 'The Workhouse Café – Cottesbrooke Hall and Gardens loop from Boughton'. Discover more routes in the cycling around Boughton guide.
Yes, several lakes are excellent for bird-watching. Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir is a known spot for bird-watching. Sywell Reservoir Bird Hide is specifically designed for observing local waterbird life, where you might spot Canada Geese, Ring-necked Pheasants, and Great Crested Grebes. Rufford Lake is also a haven for waterfowl.
Fishing is a popular activity at many lakes in the area. Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir is a location for fishing. Springvale Fishing Lakes near Newark, including First Spring Lake and The Duke Fishing Lake, are well-stocked with carp and silver fish. The Cove (Girton Fishing Lakes) is known for its carp fishing, with some fish exceeding 30lb. Hawton Waters also offers a 14-acre carp lake for overnight guests.
Many lakes around Boughton are family-friendly. Pitsford Water has open grassed areas for picnics and a children's play area. Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park offers activities like a gnome trail and a scavenger hunt. Vicar Water Lake near Ollerton and Boughton features a kids' playground and a café. Spring Lakes provides an Aqua Park and a custom-built beach, perfect for families.
Yes, some lakes offer accessible options. Pitsford Water is noted as wheelchair accessible and includes an accessible garden with raised beds. Rufford Lake has a crushed limestone path that is mostly flat and accessible, though one incline might be challenging for wheelchair users.
For scenic views, Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir is a designated viewpoint. Sywell Reservoir Bird Hide also offers views of the water and its birdlife. The paths around lakes like Pitsford Water provide picturesque vistas of the water and surrounding landscape.
The lakes around Boughton are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. You can expect to see expansive water bodies, woodlands, heathland, and parkland, such as at Clumber Park. Many areas are rich in wildlife, particularly waterfowl, and offer opportunities to observe various bird species. Some locations, like Hawton Waters, feature private woodlands and trails along rivers.
Yes, several lakes provide facilities for visitors. Pitsford Water has a café, public toilets, and a bike shop. Clumber Park offers cafes, an ice cream van, and a shop. Vicar Water Lake also has a café on site. Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park includes a restaurant and visitor centre.
Parking is generally available at the larger lake destinations. For instance, Pitsford Water has a main car park. Clumber Park also has designated parking areas, though some areas may require paid entry or National Trust membership.
The lakes around Boughton can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and summer are ideal for cycling, walking, and water sports, with warmer weather and lush scenery. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter offers crisp walks and unique bird-watching opportunities. Always check specific lake opening times and conditions before your visit.
Yes, for water sports enthusiasts, Spring Lakes is a water and leisure centre offering wakeboarding on a cable lake and an Aqua Park. Hawton Waters provides opportunities for paddleboarding and open-water swimming, alongside rowing, within its private woodland setting.


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