Best lakes around Greetwell are found in the area surrounding this village, located near Lincoln. While Greetwell itself features Greetwell Hollow with marshy areas, the wider region offers diverse water bodies. These include natural lakes, former quarry sites transformed into nature reserves, and country park lakes. The area provides opportunities for nature observation, walking, and historical exploration.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
great for some sheltered winter woodland and trail riding as the place is empty in the week in the duller colder months. summer is a no go on the bike as it gets very busy with lots of young ones around
0
0
The park can be busy, if it is use the playing field car park on the opposite side of Skellingthorpe Road
0
0
The site comprises Victorian landscaped gardens, a large reservoir, woodlands and grasslands. Many features, both natural and built, survive from the original landscaping of the 1860s.
0
0
Swanholme Lakes Local Nature Reserve was formed from a series of flooded sand and gravel pits. After quarrying finished in the 1960s vegetation was able to colonise and this has resulted in a mosaic of different habitat types in an area covering 63 hectares.
0
0
West common is situated to the north and south of Carholme Road. It is an area of open land giving excellent views of the Cathedral and the historic hilltop.
0
0
Sunnys chip shop at Bardney - Chicken and Chips - not healthy but theyre highly recommended. youll find all your needs for food and drink covered in Bardney just a little further on
0
0
Lincoln's West Common is a 100 hectare, green space with excellent views of Lincoln Cathedral. At the west limit of Lincoln, this grassy area is home to wildlife as well as a space for outdoor sports. Horses can be found grazing across this whole area, a site dating back to the 11th century and the High Medieval Era's common grazing rights. The area is a popular space for the horse's owners to ride and train the horses. Alongside this is other wildlife including a population of skylark.
1
0
The area around Greetwell offers a diverse range of water bodies, including historical urban lakes like Brayford Pool, country park lakes such as Hartsholme Park, and nature reserve lakes like Swanholme Lakes. Many of these have formed from former sand, gravel, or clay pits that have been reclaimed by nature.
Yes, Brayford Pool in Lincoln is England's oldest inland harbor, originally used as a Roman port. Today, it's a vibrant hub with dining and entertainment venues along its waterfront, offering a blend of history and modern city life.
For nature enthusiasts, Swanholme Lakes Local Nature Reserve, formed from flooded sand and gravel pits, offers diverse habitats. Whisby Nature Park, including Coot Lake, is also highly regarded for its wildlife and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Additionally, Snakeholme Pit Nature Reserve is a haven for butterflies, dragonflies, and water voles.
Many lakes in the area are suitable for families. Hartsholme Park offers woodlands and grasslands for exploration, while Swanholme Lakes provides peaceful walking trails. Brayford Pool also offers a lively atmosphere with dining options that families can enjoy.
The region around Greetwell offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, such as the 'Brayford Pool – Lincoln War Memorial loop', which are detailed in the Hiking around Greetwell guide. Cycling is also popular, with routes like the 'Burton Waters Marina – Brayford Pool loop' available in the Cycling around Greetwell guide. For mountain biking, explore trails like the 'Fossdyke Navigation – The Pyewipe Inn loop' from the MTB Trails around Greetwell guide.
For tranquil walks, Swanholme Lakes Local Nature Reserve offers a mosaic of habitats and peaceful trails. Whisby Nature Park, with its various lakes including Coot Lake, also provides excellent walking opportunities amidst natural beauty.
While not directly in Greetwell, the Lincoln Lake Lakes in Middle Rasen, a bit further afield, are known as dedicated fishing lakes. They are stocked with various species including carp, tench, bream, and perch, offering a peaceful retreat for anglers.
Greetwell Hollow is a nature reserve within the village of Greetwell. It features a stream and marshy areas formed from old ironstone and limestone workings, rich in wildlife and wildflowers. While it's not a large lake, it offers a valuable natural environment for local exploration.
The best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying wildflowers and active wildlife, particularly at reserves like Snakeholme Pit Nature Reserve. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, and even in winter, places like Hartsholme Park can be peaceful for sheltered woodland walks, especially during quieter weekdays.
Yes, West Common, a large green space near Lincoln, offers excellent views of Lincoln Cathedral. While not a lake itself, it's adjacent to the city's water features and provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities. Whisby Nature Park is also noted for beautiful reflections on Coot Lake on still days.
Around Brayford Pool in Lincoln, you'll find a vibrant hub with a selection of restaurants, pubs, and entertainment venues. For other lakes like Hartsholme Park, amenities might include visitor centers or cafes, depending on the specific park facilities.
Many country parks and nature reserves in the area, such as Hartsholme Park and Whisby Nature Park, offer well-maintained paths that are generally accessible. It's always recommended to check specific park information for detailed accessibility features before your visit.


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