Top 9 Lakes around Mapledurham
Best lakes around Mapledurham are primarily centered around the River Thames, which flows directly alongside the village and the historic Mapledurham Estate. This area is characterized by its scenic beauty and historic setting, featuring an Elizabethan manor house and a historic watermill. The Mapledurham Lock and Weir system is a notable feature, serving as a boarding point for river cruises. While distinct lakes are not prominent, the River Thames offers opportunities for fishing and scenic walks.
Best lakes around Mapledurham
โฆLast updated: June 17, 2026
Dinton Pastures Lake View
Highlight โข Cafe
The convenient car parks (parking charges โฆ
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Hosehill Lake
Highlight โข Natural
bbowt.org.uk/nature-reserves/hosehill-lake
'A beautiful lake surrounded by meadows, ponds and sheltered reedbeds, a great place to watch time go by.'
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Whiteknights Lake
Highlight โข Forest
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Garston Lock
Highlight โข Structure
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South Lake
Highlight (Segment) โข Lake
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Tips from the Community
A quiet, peaceful walk with lots of wildlife around the lake.
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Rolling through Dinton Pastures in the evening is fast, quiet, and just eerie enough to keep you sharp. The gravel trails run smooth, looping through open glades and shadowy patches where the bats skim low and the bugs feel unusually organised. Signs still warn: โNo faster than a jogger.โ If weโre still honoring old world metrics, thatโs Daniel Komenโs 2 mile world record from 1997โabout 24 km/h (15 mph). Back when things were stillโฆ consistent. Whether the ruleโs enforced is unclear, but if the rangers are still around and still armed like they were during the โwildlife management years,โ best keep it respectful. You donโt want to find out what counts as a pest now. Bring good lights, stay smooth on the corners, and be aware: things move in the treeline. Usually ducks. Occasionally something else. Either way-yield with confidence. Ride safe. Keep your exits in mind. And remember: dusk is when the place starts to remember
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This is a picturesque lock situated along the Kennett and Avon Canal on the western outskirts of Reading. On the other side of the lock is one of the Hosehill Lakes so you're granted great views in all directions.
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A wonderful place to enjoy nature and escape from the suburbs of Reading. Children will have fun feeding the ducks and there is a flat path that goes round the perimeter of the lake. You can easily link up with Highwood Local Nature Reserve to the east if you would like a longer walk.
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Set in the grounds of Reading University, Whiteknights Lake is a secret wildlife wilderness in the chaos of the town. There is a public right of way through the park but some routes, like the loop around the lake, are permissive paths.
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Short route but nice views
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A nice park to relax and recharge, the cafe makes it a great option for a mid-ride (or a pre-ride) coffee and cake stop. The convenient car parks (parking charges apply, see https://www.dinton-pastures.co.uk/plan-your-visit/parking-and-location/), which can fill up especially at weekends when the weather is nice, make it a good place to meet as a group (pandemic restrictions allowing) and start/end a bike ride on the outskirts of Reading. Incidentally, this is where the friendly "Dinton Sky Ride" group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/409137742582442) meet to start their rides, well worth joining if you are looking for company and new routes in the area!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for walking around Mapledurham?
For a pleasant walk, consider Hosehill Lake, which offers a 1-mile circular path through meadows and reedbeds. Another great option is Whiteknights Lake, located within the University of Reading grounds, providing a quiet, peaceful walk amidst diverse wildlife. South Lake also features a flat path around its perimeter, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Mapledurham area?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Dinton Pastures Lake View is part of a park with a cafe, making it a great spot for a family outing. Hosehill Lake and Whiteknights Lake offer easy walks and opportunities to observe nature. South Lake is particularly good for children, with a flat path and ducks to feed.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes near Mapledurham?
The lakes around Mapledurham are rich in wildlife. Whiteknights Lake is known as a 'wildlife wilderness' with diverse species. Hosehill Lake is surrounded by meadows, ponds, and sheltered reedbeds, providing habitats for various birds and aquatic life. The River Thames itself is popular for coarse angling, with species like barbel, bream, and chub.
Are there any historic or cultural sites near the lakes in Mapledurham?
While the area's water features are primarily natural or recreational, the River Thames at Mapledurham flows alongside the historic Mapledurham Estate, which includes an Elizabethan manor house and the Mapledurham Watermill. The mill is the last working corn and grist mill on the Thames and has a rich history, with parts dating back to the 15th century.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Mapledurham?
Beyond walking around the lakes, the Mapledurham area offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and running. The River Thames also provides opportunities for fishing and scenic river cruises, with Mapledurham Lock serving as a boarding point for some upstream journeys.
Is there parking available at the lakes?
Yes, parking is available at some locations. For Dinton Pastures Lake View, there are convenient car parks, though charges apply and they can fill up on weekends. For Hosehill Lake, visitors can park in the Fox & Hounds pub car park.
Are there accessible paths around the lakes?
South Lake features a flat path around its perimeter, making it suitable for those seeking an accessible route. While other paths may vary, many of the lake walks are generally considered easy and well-maintained.
Can I go wild swimming in the Mapledurham area?
The primary water feature in Mapledurham is the River Thames. While some sections of the Thames are used for wild swimming, it's important to be aware of local regulations, water quality, and safety considerations. There are no specific designated wild swimming spots mentioned for the lakes in the immediate Mapledurham area.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Mapledurham?
The lakes and the River Thames area are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for walks and outdoor activities. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, and even winter can be pleasant for quiet walks, though paths might be muddy. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
Are there pubs or cafes near the lakes?
Yes, Dinton Pastures Lake View has a cafe, making it a great spot to relax and recharge. For Hosehill Lake, the Fox & Hounds pub car park is a suggested parking spot, implying a pub is conveniently located nearby for refreshments.
What do visitors enjoy most about the Mapledurham lakes area?
Visitors appreciate the scenic beauty and historic setting, particularly around the Mapledurham Estate and the River Thames. The quiet, peaceful walks, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for relaxation at places like Whiteknights Lake are highly valued. The convenience of cafes and easy circular walks also contribute to a positive experience.
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