Top 4 Lakes around Welford
Best lakes around Welford are characterized by a landscape shaped by water management, featuring both natural and man-made reservoirs. These water bodies, often built to supply canals or towns, provide important habitats for diverse wildlife and offer recreational opportunities. The area combines serene waterscapes with surrounding woodlands and walking paths, making it a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore various reservoirs, each offering unique features from birdwatching spots to historical engineering.
Best lakes around Welford
- The most popular lakes is Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir, a lake built in 1890 to supply water to Northampton. Today, visitors can wander around this water source and enjoy bird-watching, fishing, or fresh air.
- Another must-see spot is Saddington Reservoir, an important biological site covering 47 acres. This area comprises wet willow, woodland, swamp, open water, and wetland habitats, providing a home for various wildlife.
- Visitors also love Welford and Sulby Reservoirs, wonderfully scenic man-made water bodies built to supply water to the Grand Union Canal. A loop of Welford Reservoir is an easy walk from nearby Welford, offering peaceful walking options along the canal.
- Welford is known for its diverse range of lakes, including natural habitats, man-made reservoirs, and family-friendly viewpoints. The area offers a variety of water bodies to explore, catering to different interests from wildlife observation to leisurely walks.
- The lakes around Welford are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 18 upvotes and 12 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Saddington Reservoir
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Welford and Sulby Reservoirs
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Foxton to Saddington Reservoir Country Road
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Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir
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Lakeside Picnic and Birdwatching Spot
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Tips from the Community
A good way to cycle to Foxton Locks to see the canal engineering.
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It's the perfect spot to hydrate, stretch, and simply appreciate nature before continuing to ride. Beware the thorns and sticks in spring time!
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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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Foxton to Saddington Reservoir is a quite country road and part of the NCN National Route 6. A joy to cycle along.
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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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Good views and cricket pitch surrounded by cows
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Covering 47 acres, Saddington Reservoir is an important biological site. The area comprises of wet willow, woodland, swamp, open water, and wetland habitats. It provides a home for various wildlife, such as beetles that have become scarce in the UK.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of lakes found around Welford?
The Welford area features both natural and man-made water bodies. You'll find significant reservoirs like Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir, originally built to supply water, alongside natural habitats that support diverse wildlife.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Welford area?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Welford and Sulby Reservoirs offer easy walking options and scenic views. The Lakeside Picnic and Birdwatching Spot is also ideal for a family outing, with opportunities to see various bird species.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes around Welford?
The lakes are rich in wildlife. Saddington Reservoir is an important biological site with diverse habitats supporting various wildlife, including scarce beetles. At the Lakeside Picnic and Birdwatching Spot, you might observe geese, swans, and rarer species like the ring-necked duck and common crane.
Are there walking trails near the lakes around Welford?
Yes, there are many walking opportunities. For example, a loop of Welford Reservoir offers an easy and peaceful walk. You can find more detailed routes, including easy hikes and moderate trails, in guides like Easy hikes around Welford and Hiking around Welford.
What activities can I do at Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir?
Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir, built in 1890, is a popular spot for bird-watching, fishing, or simply enjoying the fresh air and beautiful water source.
What makes Saddington Reservoir unique?
Saddington Reservoir is an important biological site covering 47 acres. It features a unique combination of wet willow, woodland, swamp, open water, and wetland habitats, providing a home for various wildlife, including beetles that are scarce in the UK.
Can I go running near the lakes in Welford?
Absolutely. The area offers several running trails. You can explore routes like the 'Welford and Sulby Reservoirs – Sibbertoft Village loop' or the '10 50 Beer loop from Welford'. Find more options in the Running Trails around Welford guide.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Welford?
The lakes offer beauty year-round. For birdwatching, the spring and autumn migrations can be particularly rewarding. The peaceful walking options are enjoyable in any season, especially around Welford and Sulby Reservoirs.
Are there any good spots for a picnic near the lakes?
Yes, the Lakeside Picnic and Birdwatching Spot is described as an idyllic location for a picnic, offering pleasant views and opportunities to observe local birdlife.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Welford?
Visitors appreciate the serene waterscapes, the diverse wildlife, and the recreational opportunities. Many enjoy the peaceful walking options, bird-watching, and the chance to connect with nature, as highlighted by the 18 upvotes and 12 photos shared by the komoot community.
Is Naseby Reservoir easily accessible?
Naseby Reservoir can be accessed via a rough track. It's also accessible by car from the A5199 or Naseby via Carvells lane and appears to be open all hours.
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