Top 3 Lakes around Keswick And Intwood
Best lakes around Keswick And Intwood offers a diverse range of aquatic landscapes. Keswick, located in the Lake District, is home to numerous natural lakes, each with distinct characteristics and activities. In contrast, Intwood in Norfolk does not feature significant natural lakes, though the broader Norfolk area is known for its man-made broads. This region provides opportunities for peaceful walks, watersports, and wildlife observation.
Best lakes around Keswick And Intwood
- The most popular lakes is Whitlingham Great Broad, a…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Thorpe Marshes Nature Reserve
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Close to the River Yare, the area …
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Whitlingham Great Broad
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Whitlingham Country Park
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University of East Anglia Broad
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River Yare at Whitlingham Great Broad
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Tips from the Community
A broad is the local name for a body of water. This one was created from a former gravel pit in conjunction with the landscaping of the universities grounds. It's pretty and a haven for wildlife, but its steep sides reduce the wetland habitat that would normally surround a lake of this size.
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It’s a fantastic place for a leisurely walk or a paddle in a canoe, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities.
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If you’re an angler, the River Yare is renowned for its excellent fishing spots. Popular among both locals and visitors, the river is teeming with species like bream, roach, and perch. Ensure you have a valid fishing licence and consider hiring a local guide to find the best spots.
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One of the Broads' greatest rivers, a stroll along the Yare and its connecting channels and broads is always delightful. This section, alongside Whitlingham Great Broad, offers serenity just a short hop from Norwich's city centre. Interestingly, the Yare and the River Wensum meet just to the west of the broad, yet despite the Wensum being longer and wider up to that point, it's the Yare's name that continues onwards towards the North Sea at Gorleston.
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Whitlingham Country Park is where the majesty of the Broads meets the buzz of the city. Just a short walk from Norwich's centre, the serene trails here are adored by locals and visitors alike. There's a cafe, an adventure centre and trails that explore the park's woodlands and meadows.
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You can't see that much of the marshes from the road but the woods are very pleasant.
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Thorpe Marshes is a diverse habitat situated in Norwich, offering walkers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The marshes feature reed beds, wet meadows, and open water, which provide a home for a diverse range of bird species such as kingfishers, herons, and terns.
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Located on the edge of Norwich, Thorpe Marshes is a wonderful mixture of habitats in a nature reserve managed by Norfolk Wildlife Trust. Close to the River Yare, the area is covered in wildflower marshes and dykes. You may spot dragonfly, damselfly and butterfly here, as well as many waterbirds. Chinese water deer, and smaller Muntjac deer have also taken up residence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I expect to find in the Keswick and Intwood region?
The region offers a contrast: Keswick, located in the Lake District, is home to numerous natural lakes with distinct characteristics. Intwood in Norfolk, however, does not feature significant natural lakes, though the broader Norfolk area is known for its man-made broads (shallow lakes formed by medieval peat diggings).
Are there any family-friendly activities around the lakes?
Yes, several spots are great for families. For instance, Whitlingham Great Broad in Whitlingham Country Park is popular for water sports like wild swimming and stand-up paddleboarding. The Whitlingham Great Broad Cycleway offers a circular, compact surface path perfect for family cycling with fantastic views.
Where can I enjoy water sports like wild swimming or paddleboarding?
You can enjoy wild swimming and stand-up paddleboarding at Whitlingham Great Broad, which is one of two lakes in Whitlingham Country Park. It's a popular spot for these activities.
What kind of wildlife can I observe near the lakes?
The lakes, particularly those in the Keswick area like Bassenthwaite Lake, are crucial habitats for wildlife. Bassenthwaite is known for hundreds of migrating birds, including ospreys, and fish like Atlantic salmon and the unique vendace. The University of East Anglia Broad is also a haven for wildlife.
Are there good cycling paths around the lakes?
Yes, the Whitlingham Great Broad Cycleway offers a circular path with a good compact surface and fantastic views over the water. For more cycling options, you can explore various road cycling routes or gravel biking routes in the wider Keswick And Intwood area.
What are some less crowded lake options for a peaceful experience?
For a more tranquil experience away from larger crowds, consider visiting Thirlmere, which offers an 'alpine feel' and peaceful environment. Buttermere, Crummock Water, and Loweswater in the Vale of Lorton are also known for their serene settings and stunning reflections, ideal for peaceful walks.
Are there hiking opportunities near the lakes?
Absolutely. The Keswick area, especially around Derwentwater, offers numerous walks, including the eight-mile lakeshore Derwentwater Walk. You can find many hiking routes in the region, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.
Which lake is best for scenic views and photography?
Derwentwater is highly recommended for scenic views, especially from Friar's Crag on its eastern shore and elevated points like Walla Crag, which offers splendid panoramas towards Catbells. Thirlmere also provides rewarding scenery from Raven Crag.
What makes Bassenthwaite Lake unique among the lakes?
Bassenthwaite Lake is unique as it's the only officially designated 'lake' in the Lake District (most others are called 'meres' or 'waters'). It's a vital wildlife habitat, particularly for migrating birds like ospreys and fish species such as Atlantic salmon and the rare vendace, benefiting from major regeneration projects to maintain water quality.
Can I combine a boat trip with lakeside walks?
Yes, on Derwentwater, you can enjoy lake cruises with Keswick Launch, which allows for hop-on and hop-off exploration at seven landing stages. This lets you combine a relaxing boat ride with leisurely lakeside strolls and explore different parts of the shore.
What do visitors generally enjoy most about the lakes in this region?
Visitors appreciate the diverse range of aquatic landscapes, from large, activity-rich lakes to tranquil, wildlife-focused broads. The opportunities for peaceful walks, various watersports, and observing nature are highly valued, as evidenced by the komoot community's positive feedback and shared photos.
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