Top 5 Lakes around Whippingham
Best lakes around Whippingham are found in the surrounding areas of the Isle of Wight, particularly near East Cowes. Whippingham itself is known for its countryside, historic buildings like the Church of St. Mildred, and Osborne House. The region offers diverse natural beauty and historical interest, with several notable aquatic features. These locations provide opportunities for nature observation and enjoying the island's landscapes.
Best lakes around Whippingham
- The most popular lakes is Cassey Bridge and Causeway Lake Estuary, a…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Cassey Bridge and Causeway Lake Estuary
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Mopley Pond
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Badminston Common
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Birchmore Pond
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Alan Hersey Nature Reserve
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Lovely bridge over the Causeway Lake estuary. Enjoy views of the lake on one side and mouth of the river on the other, before setting off for more exploring of this beautiful landscape on the Isle of Wight.
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Now a fishing lake, Mopley Pond was formed some time in the past by damming the valley where two streams met to form a mill pond for the Mopley watermill on the Bourne. The earlies known reference to a mill here is 1626, but the mill referred to under Woodington in 1555 is almost certainly Mopley. The mill appears on the Fawley tithe map of 1838, but it has been removed by the OS Survey undertaken in 1868. The PLUTO pipeline ran from the holding tanks on Badminston Common to a pump house at Mopley Pond, but was removed after the war. The pump-house was constructed of corrugated iron with a gabled tin roof and double doors in the end, making it look like a domestic garage. All that is left today is the concrete base, and even this is overgrown with vegetation. From Mopley to Stone Point on the Lepe foreshore, the PLUTO pipeline then ran underwater across the Solent to Thorness Bay on the Isle of Wight and thence across the Island to Shankling Chine, where it crossed the Channel to the Cherbourg Peninsular.
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There were many wartime installations in the Fawley area, including the storage tanks used for the PLUTO project, a Second World War Pipe Line Under the Ocean. These were located at the end of Badminston Lane in an area generally known as the Common. It was largely open heathland, much like the New Forest, covered with heather and gorse. The tanks measured about 180 metres by 100 metres and stood about three or four metres high. They were covered over with soil and sand and then grassed over to conceal their position and purpose. The removal of the sand and gravel left a huge scar on the landscape about a metre deep and required to be camouflaged. This was achieved by lopping off the top 2 metres of pine trees, positioning them in the manner of plantation trees and securing them in position with wooden pegs and galvanised iron wire. They soon became a local feature as a forest of small dead tree tops! Badminston Common was used for common grazing land in the 18th century. Gravel has been extracted from this area for years. The now flooded Badminston gravel pit is a haven for all sorts of wildlife.
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Alan Hersey Nature Reserve, located on a flood-plain between Springvale and Seaview, is a great place for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for species including snipe, shoveler, mute swan, goldfinch, kingfisher, sparrowhawk, plus more. The reserve is named after Alan Hersey, a former local councillor in Seaview.
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Is a Gift to Nature site next to Naturezones. The pond has been cleared and maintained to make it the perfect environment for dragonflies and damselflies. There is a bench next to the pond and it is a peaceful place for a picnic.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore near Whippingham's lakes?
The area around Whippingham offers diverse natural features. You can visit Alan Hersey Nature Reserve, a flood-plain lake known for birdwatching. Birchmore Pond is a Gift to Nature site, maintained to be an ideal environment for dragonflies and damselflies. The Cassey Bridge and Causeway Lake Estuary provides picturesque views where the lake meets the river mouth.
Are there any historical sites connected to the lakes near Whippingham?
Yes, Mopley Pond is a historical site that was originally a mill pond, now repurposed as a fishing lake. Additionally, Badminston Common, now a flooded gravel pit, was once home to wartime installations for the PLUTO project and is now a haven for wildlife.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Whippingham?
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, you can explore various outdoor activities. There are several running trails, including loops around Island Harbour Marina and the PS Ryde Shipwreck. For cycling enthusiasts, there are MTB trails like the Red Squirrel Trail, and gravel biking routes such as the Sandown to Newport Cycle Path.
Are there family-friendly lakes to visit near Whippingham?
Many of the lakes and water bodies in the area are suitable for families. The Cassey Bridge and Causeway Lake Estuary offers scenic views for a pleasant outing. Birchmore Pond is a peaceful spot with a bench, perfect for a picnic and observing dragonflies. Alan Hersey Nature Reserve is also family-friendly, offering opportunities for birdwatching.
Where can I go birdwatching near Whippingham?
The primary spot for birdwatching is the Alan Hersey Nature Reserve. Located on a flood-plain, it's an excellent destination to spot various bird species, including snipe, shoveler, mute swan, goldfinch, kingfisher, and sparrowhawk.
Can I go fishing in any of the lakes near Whippingham?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Mopley Pond, a historical mill pond, is now a fishing lake. Additionally, Nettlecombe Farm Lakes, a short distance away, are well-stocked with carp, roach, and tench, offering good sport for anglers of all experience levels. They are open from dawn until dusk all year round.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Whippingham?
The lakes around Whippingham can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and summer are ideal for wildlife observation, especially birdwatching at Alan Hersey Nature Reserve and spotting dragonflies at Birchmore Pond. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter offers a peaceful, often less crowded, experience.
Are there any less crowded lake walks near Whippingham?
While popular spots like the Cassey Bridge and Causeway Lake Estuary can attract visitors, exploring areas like Birchmore Pond or the trails around Badminston Common might offer a more tranquil experience, especially during off-peak hours or weekdays.
What kind of views can I expect around the lakes?
The views vary depending on the location. At Cassey Bridge and Causeway Lake Estuary, you'll find picturesque scenes where the lake meets the river mouth, with a lovely bridge. Other areas offer views of flood-plains, forests, and serene pond settings, providing diverse natural beauty.
Are there opportunities for longer walks or hikes that incorporate the lakes?
Yes, while specific lake-only circular walks might be shorter, the region's extensive network of trails allows for longer excursions. You can combine visits to the lakes with sections of the running or MTB trails, many of which pass through scenic countryside and near water bodies, offering routes of varying distances and difficulties.
What makes the lakes around Whippingham unique?
The lakes and water bodies near Whippingham are unique for their blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and diverse ecosystems. From the birdwatching haven of Alan Hersey Nature Reserve to the historical fishing grounds of Mopley Pond, and the scenic estuary views at Cassey Bridge, they offer a variety of experiences that reflect the Isle of Wight's rich natural and cultural heritage.
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