Top 15 Lakes around Blagdon
Lakes around Blagdon are primarily defined by Blagdon Lake, a 440-acre reservoir situated within the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This lake serves as a crucial source of drinking water and is recognized for its stillwater trout fishing. It holds Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI) status due to its diverse wildflower meadows and significant bird populations, including over 270 recorded species. The area provides a tranquil environment with picturesque views and various walking routes.
Best lakes around Blagdon
- The most popular lakes is Chew Valley Lake, a viewpoint and artificial lake. It is the 5th largest artificial lake in the UK, constructed to supply drinking water for Bristol.
- Another must-see spot is Knowle Hill, a summit offering views over Chew Lake and the Mendip Hills AONB. A bench is available at the summit for enjoying the panoramic scenery.
- Visitors also love Rickford Chapel and Pond, a historical site featuring a 19th-century Swiss-style chapel next to a pond. The pond historically fed local mills.
- Blagdon is known for large artificial lakes and smaller ponds. The area offers a variety of water bodies to explore, from expansive reservoirs to historic village ponds.
- The lakes around Blagdon are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 250 upvotes and 30 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Chew Valley Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
There are brilliant views of the lake and surrounding countryside as you pass along the dam.
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Salt & Malt, Chew Valley Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Bird Watching at Chew Valley Lake
Highlight • Lake
The A368 crosses the southern edge of the lake. There is car parking along the causeway, and it's always a popular bird watching area.
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Cheddar Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Knowle Hill
Highlight • Summit
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Tips from the Community
The concrete outlet tower serves as the central control point for the reservoir's water supply. Connected by a bridge to the main dam, the tower houses sluice gates and valves that regulate the flow and distribution of water to the River Chew and the local water supply.
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This hill, while lower than the surrounding ridges, provides great views from the top. Fern covered with several tracks crossing the slopes.
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Beautiful Lake. It's very large(!) And is really easily accessible, there is parking right by the edge of the lake, if you can not walk there. It's a fantastic spot for bird watching, too! There is a board that displays the birds you may be likely to see and when you'll see them. Please do not feed bread to the ducks & birds! (I know it was normal, I used to do it as a small child in the late 80s & 90s, but we know it's bad for them now)
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awesome hidden pump track is really worth the journey guys
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Chew Valley Lake is the 5th largest artificial lake in the UK. It was constructed in the 1950s to supply drinking water for Bristol and the nearby area. There are brilliant views of the lake and surrounding countryside as you pass along the dam.
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Chew Valley Lake formed by the construction of this dam on the River Chew in the 1950's. Built to provide drinking water for Bristol.
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Chew Valley Lake was created in the early 1950 s to provide drinking water to Bristol and the surrounding area. It also controls the flow rate of the River Chew. The A368 crosses the southern edge of the lake. There is car parking along the causeway, and it's always a popular bird watching area.
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A protected conservation site for wildlife managed by Bristol Water. Dating from the 1930s, Cheddar Reservoir has a capacity of 135 million gallons. The reservoir is supplied with water taken from the Cheddar Yeo river in Cheddar Gorge. It Panoramic views of the Somerset levels and Mendip Hills. Wildlife consists of Swans and various wildfowl, also visiting cormorants out for a spot of fishing. Very accessible walking route right around the edge of the lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Blagdon Lake a significant natural area?
Blagdon Lake is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its rich biodiversity. It features diverse wildflower meadows and supports significant bird populations, with over 270 species recorded. It's particularly important for wintering wildfowl like shoveler and gadwall, and its shoreline provides habitats for various waterfowl.
Are there opportunities for bird watching around Blagdon?
Yes, the area is excellent for bird watching. Blagdon Lake itself is a key site for wintering wildfowl. Additionally, Bird Watching at Chew Valley Lake is a popular spot, known for its accessibility and diverse bird species, with information boards available to guide visitors.
What historical sites can be explored near the lakes?
The creation of Blagdon Lake itself involved impressive Victorian engineering, including its historic pumping station. Another notable historical site is Rickford Chapel and Pond, a 19th-century Swiss-style chapel situated next to a pond that historically powered local mills.
Can I go fishing at Blagdon Lake?
Yes, Blagdon Lake is world-renowned for its stillwater trout fly fishing. Anglers can enjoy both boat and bank fishing, with diverse spots available. A Fishing Lodge on the south shore offers facilities, tackle, and up-to-the-minute fishing information. Approximately 50,000 trout are reared annually to stock the lake.
Are there family-friendly activities or places to visit near the lakes?
Yes, Chew Valley Lake is a family-friendly destination, offering lovely views and a large artificial lake to explore. The area around the lakes also provides scenic walks suitable for families.
What kind of views can I expect around the lakes?
The region offers picturesque views, particularly as Blagdon Lake is nestled within the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). For panoramic scenery, Knowle Hill provides stunning vistas over Chew Valley Lake and the rolling Mendip Hills.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The area around Blagdon offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, including moderate trails like the Blagdon Lake loop. There are also options for cycling, such as the Chew Valley Lake loop, and mountain biking trails.
Are there accessible walking routes around the lakes?
Yes, Bird Watching at Chew Valley Lake is noted as being very accessible, with parking right by the lake's edge. While much of Blagdon Lake's shoreline requires a permit, a public footpath in the northeast corner around Butcombe Bay offers accessible scenery.
What is the best time to visit Blagdon Lake?
Blagdon Lake offers beauty year-round. For bird watching, the lake is particularly important for wintering wildfowl. The wildflower meadows are vibrant in spring and summer. Anglers can enjoy fishing throughout the season, and the scenic views are enjoyable in any season.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments near the lakes?
Yes, for refreshments and food, Salt & Malt, Chew Valley Lake offers a chip shop with a picnic area overlooking the lake, popular with cyclists and visitors. The Fishing Lodge at Blagdon Lake also provides complimentary tea or coffee for visitors.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Blagdon?
Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquil environment and picturesque views, especially from spots like Knowle Hill. The exceptional trout fishing at Blagdon Lake is also a major draw, as is the rich biodiversity and bird watching opportunities at both Blagdon and Chew Valley Lakes.
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