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United Kingdom
England
East Of England
Central Bedfordshire

Southill

Top 5 Lakes around Southill

Best lakes around Southill are found within a landscape characterized by country parks, estates, and river floodplains. This region offers a variety of natural and man-made lakes, often integrated with woodlands and river systems. The area provides opportunities for exploring diverse terrain, from open meadows to forested paths, alongside historical features. These locations are suitable for walks and observing local wildlife.

Best lakes around Southill

  • The most popular lakes is Priory Lake, a country park that features meadows, reed…

Last updated: June 29, 2026

Priory Lake

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Lovely park and lake with plenty of tracks and routes for all abilities and bike builds.

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The Shuttleworth Collection

Highlight • Monument

With a colourful array of historic aircraft, the Shuttleworth Collection is one of the best-preserved collections in the world. Founded by aviator Richard Ormonde Shuttleworth in 1928, the collection includes …

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The Grange Estate Trails

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At the eastern end of the Bedford River Park is the 297-acre (120 ha) Grange Estate. Situated on the River Great Ouse's floodplain, there are many pleasant trails by little …

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Lovely, easy walk around the lakes. Benches along the way to stop and take in the wildlife. Dog friendly.

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Shortmead House and Gardens

Highlight • Historical Site

Stunning hard packed gravel ride through the stunning Shortmead House and Gardens, lovely large pond and stunning gardens

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Popular around Southill

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Tips from the Community

Liana Pitcock
March 4, 2025, River Hiz and Ickleford Lakes

Lovely, easy walk around the lakes. Benches along the way to stop and take in the wildlife. Dog friendly.

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Great waterside riding through the park on Route 51 or using the cycle friendly paths and trails around Priory.

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Stunning hard packed gravel ride through the stunning Shortmead House and Gardens, lovely large pond and stunning gardens

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I love Shuttleworth, for the collection of aircraft and cars but also because of its history. The Manor House, the gardens and the airfield are great and also a fantastic location. The nearby village of Old Warden is also very beautiful with a great pub.

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At the eastern end of the Bedford River Park is the 297-acre (120 ha) Grange Estate. Situated on the River Great Ouse's floodplain, there are many pleasant trails by little lakes and along brooks. It’s a great place to spot kingfishers. South east of the estate is the village of Willington, where you find Danish Camp, one of the few remaining water-filled moats left from the Viking Age. Today, there's an adjacent restaurant in a Norwegian log cabin. This characterful eatery is a great place to relax after a walk in the Bedford River Valley Park.

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The Yawning Kea
November 18, 2020, Priory Lake

A "Green Flag" Country Park managed by Bedfordshire Borough Council. It sits in a large meander on the River Great Ouse and is made up of meadows, lakes (Priory Lake & Finger Lakes), reed beds and woodland. A nice spot for a relaxing ride and just off the disused east-west running railway line between Bedford and Sandy. Cycling's not permitted in some parts of the country park, so be mindful of others.

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Phil
October 28, 2020, Priory Lake

Beautiful view over the lakes Good cafe with friendly staff

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Chris W
May 31, 2020, Priory Lake

Lovely park and lake with plenty of tracks and routes for all abilities and bike builds.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes near Southill?

The lakes around Southill offer diverse natural landscapes. You can find meadows, reed beds, and woodlands at places like Priory Lake, which also provides beautiful views over its waters. The Grange Estate Trails are situated on a river floodplain with small lakes and brooks, known for spotting wildlife like kingfishers. River Hiz and Ickleford Lakes also offer opportunities to observe local wildlife.

Are there family-friendly options for visiting the lakes in Southill?

Yes, several lake areas are suitable for families. Priory Lake is a Green Flag Country Park with tracks and routes for all abilities. The Grange Estate Trails offer pleasant walks by small lakes and brooks. Additionally, The Shuttleworth Collection, while primarily a museum, includes gardens and a lake, and Shortmead House and Gardens also feature a lovely large pond and gardens, all tagged as family-friendly.

Can I bring my dog to the lakes around Southill?

Yes, River Hiz and Ickleford Lakes are specifically noted as dog-friendly, offering easy walks where you can enjoy the wildlife with your pet.

What historical sites or landmarks are near the lakes?

Near the lakes, you can visit The Shuttleworth Collection, which features historic aircraft, a manor house, and gardens. Shortmead House and Gardens also offers a historical setting with stunning gardens. The region itself, particularly around Southill, is known for its historical estates and landscapes, such as Southill Park, designed by Capability Brown, though public access to the lake within the park is limited.

What are some easy walks around the lakes near Southill?

For easy walks, River Hiz and Ickleford Lakes are highly recommended, featuring benches along the way to enjoy the scenery. Priory Lake also offers plenty of tracks and routes suitable for all abilities.

Are there cafes or places to eat near the lakes?

Yes, Priory Lake has a good cafe with friendly staff. The Shuttleworth Collection also offers coffee and food, making it a great meeting spot. Additionally, near The Grange Estate Trails, you can find Danish Camp with an adjacent restaurant in a Norwegian log cabin, perfect for relaxing after a walk.

What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?

Beyond walking around the lakes, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can explore gravel biking routes, such as those found in the Gravel biking around Southill guide, or enjoy hiking trails, with options available in the Hiking around Southill guide. Road cycling routes are also popular, detailed in the Road Cycling Routes around Southill guide.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Southill?

Visitors particularly enjoy the beautiful views over the lakes, the peaceful atmosphere, and the opportunities for wildlife observation. The well-maintained tracks and routes, especially at places like Priory Lake, are also highly appreciated. The blend of natural beauty with historical elements and convenient amenities like cafes adds to the overall positive experience.

Are there opportunities for fishing at the lakes near Southill?

While the guide data doesn't explicitly mention fishing at the highlighted lakes, the broader region research indicates that some lakes in similar areas (like South Hill Park in Bracknell) are popular for fishing. For specific details on fishing at the lakes around Southill, it's best to check local regulations and access information for each site.

Is there parking available for visitors to the lakes?

While specific parking details for each lake are not provided in the guide, most country parks and estates typically offer designated parking facilities for visitors. It is advisable to check the official websites or local signage for specific parking information before your visit to individual lake locations.

Can I find circular walks around the lakes?

Yes, many of the trails around the lakes, such as those at Priory Lake and The Grange Estate Trails, are designed to offer pleasant circular routes, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes and return to your starting point.

What is the best time to visit the lakes around Southill?

The lakes around Southill can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and active wildlife, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the paths are suitable for walks, and the serene atmosphere can be particularly appealing. The choice depends on your preferred scenery and activities.

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

CranfieldHulcote And SalfordAspley HeathWoburnAspley GuiseMarston MoretaineHusborne CrawleyBrogboroughLeighton-LinsladePotsgroveLidlingtonRidgmontHeath And ReachEaton BrayGreat BillingtonBattlesdenTotternhoeWhipsnadeMilton BryanTempsfordEversholtHaynesStudhamHoughton ConquestOld WardenEvertonHoughton RegisStanbridgeKensworthToddingtonMauldenNorthillSandyCampton And ChicksandsAmpthillTilsworthChalgraveEggingtonHockliffeClophillMoggerhangerBlunhamTingrithCaddingtonDunstableEyeworthWrestlingworth And Cockayne HatleyBiggleswade

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