Lakes around Bushwood feature a landscape shaped by historical engineering projects. The area is characterized by man-made reservoirs and canals, originally constructed to support the Stratford upon Avon canal system. These bodies of water are often surrounded by parkland, woodlands, and natural features, providing diverse outdoor recreation opportunities. The region offers a blend of historical significance and accessible natural environments for visitors.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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Although the route suggested by Komoot was good there were some problems in the wooded section between the two railway crossings. The path was closed and therefore needed to find a detour.
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Closed up nothing really to see apart from the building
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Lake and caravan park, public allowed in if they open the gates for you... goes down onto the canal path as well...
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The Blythe Valley Countryside Park is 87 acres in size. The circular path includes several small lakes and a bird hide. The site is like a cross between New Hall Valley Country park in Sutton Coldfield and Plantsbrook in Pype Hayes and is home to a mixture of conservation woodland, 38,000m² of new woodland, grassland, hedgerows, streams and wetland. The 3.5km path is be great for cycling and running, too. Work on the business park commenced in August 1998 and was a joint development between Solihull MBC, Doughty Hanson & Co Real Estate and Liberty Property Trust. The River Blythe has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and there are local damp willow woodlands, emergent reeds and wet grassland. In a rare UK approach, storm water from the built up area is cleaned by several processes en route to the river.
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The engine house is Grade II listed and was built to contain the original beam engine that pumped water from the reservoirs up to the higher level of the feeder river. It has been in continual operation since 1823, though in 1936 the beam engine was dismantled and replaced by the electric pumps. You can see the in-fill brickwork where the chimney was removed, marking the arrival of electricity. The building is typical of an engine house; one tall narrow room for the beam engine and lower storey ancillary rooms surrounding it. For this particular engine house the lower storey extension was added post 1846, when the canal was taken over by the Great Western Railway Company due to the decline of canal usage. This is telling in other details such as the workshop bench made out of railway sleepers and the reclaimed platform edging bricks on the stairs. The wooden beams for the upper floors are visible in between the brickwork and you can also see the structural ties that were added after construction, as the building needed more support to cope with the vibration of the machine.
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The Earlswood Lakes were constructed in the 1820s to provide water to the Stratford upon Avon canal. Construction took nearly 5 years to complete, and the labour force included prisoners of war from the Napoleonic wars.The cost of construction was £297,000. There are three lakes. Terry's Pool lake cover 20 acres (8.1 ha). The lakes are fed by tributaries of the River Blythe, and in turn outfall into that river also.
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The Earlswood Lakes were constructed in the 1820S to provide water to the Stratford upon Avon canal. Construction took nearly 5 years to complete, and the labour force included prisoners of war from the Napoleonic wars.The cost of construction was £297,000. There are three lakes. The Windmill Pool lake cover 25 acres (10 ha). The lakes are fed by tributaries of the River Blythe, and in turn outfall into that river also.
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The lakes in the Bushwood area, such as the Engine House and Engine Pool, Earlswood Lakes, are primarily man-made reservoirs. They were constructed in the 1820s to supply water to the Stratford upon Avon canal system. The construction of these lakes, including Terry's Pool Reservoir and Windmill Pool Lake, took nearly five years and involved a labor force that included prisoners of war from the Napoleonic wars. The Grade II listed engine house at Earlswood Lakes, for example, has been in continuous operation since 1823, showcasing its engineering heritage.
Yes, the area offers various walking and hiking opportunities. For instance, the Blythe Valley Park Circular Walk features a 3.5km path that includes several small lakes, a bird hide, and a mix of woodland, grassland, and wetlands. You can also find numerous routes for different sports, including hiking, in the wider Bushwood area. For more detailed hiking routes, you can explore guides like the MTB Trails around Bushwood, which often share paths with walkers.
Absolutely. The region around Bushwood is well-suited for cycling. You'll find various routes, from easy to moderate, that pass by the lakes and through the surrounding countryside. For specific cycling routes, check out guides such as MTB Trails around Bushwood, Road Cycling Routes around Bushwood, and Cycling around Bushwood.
The lakes and surrounding parklands are home to diverse wildlife. At places like the Blythe Valley Park Circular Walk, you can find a bird hide, indicating good bird-watching opportunities. The area's mix of conservation woodland, grassland, streams, and wetlands provides habitats for various species. The River Blythe, which feeds some of these lakes, is even designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Yes, many of the lakes and their surrounding areas are considered family-friendly. Highlights like Engine House and Engine Pool, Earlswood Lakes, Windmill Pool Lake, and Terry's Pool Reservoir are popular spots for families to enjoy nature, walks, and observe historical engineering. The Blythe Valley Park Circular Walk also offers an accessible path suitable for family outings.
Beyond the lakes, the Bushwood area offers a rich natural landscape. You can explore woodlands, grasslands, hedgerows, and streams. The Blythe Valley Park Circular Walk, for example, encompasses conservation woodland and wetlands, with the River Blythe flowing through it. These areas provide opportunities for enjoying nature, bird watching, and observing the local flora and fauna.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and accessible natural environments. Many enjoy the peaceful walks around the man-made reservoirs, learning about their role in the Stratford upon Avon canal system, and observing the engineering marvels like the Engine House. The scenic beauty, opportunities for bird watching, and the well-maintained paths for walking and cycling are also highly valued by the komoot community.
Yes, there are several easy walking options. The Blythe Valley Park Circular Walk is a good example, offering a 3.5km path suitable for leisurely strolls. Many of the paths around the Earlswood Lakes system are also relatively flat and well-maintained, making them ideal for easy walks and enjoying the lakeside scenery.
Yes, the area provides several spots to take in the views. The general Earlswood Lakes area is known for its viewpoints, offering picturesque perspectives of the water and surrounding landscape. The paths around the various pools, such as Windmill Pool Lake, also provide ample opportunities for scenic appreciation.
Definitely. The most prominent historical landmark is the Engine House and Engine Pool, Earlswood Lakes. This Grade II listed engine house, built in 1823, is a testament to 19th-century engineering, originally designed to pump water for the Stratford upon Avon canal. The entire Earlswood Lakes system itself is a historical engineering project.
The lakes around Bushwood can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and summer are ideal for longer walks and enjoying the lush greenery, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the paths are suitable for walks, offering a tranquil atmosphere. Check local weather forecasts for the most comfortable experience.


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