Best lakes around South Mimms offers access to various water bodies, from local nature reserves to larger ornamental and fishing lakes in nearby towns. The area features smaller, ecologically significant water bodies like the Mimmshall Brook and seasonal ponds. Its location provides convenient access to notable lakes in neighboring St Albans and Colney Heath. These diverse aquatic environments support wildlife and offer recreational opportunities.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around South Mimms.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Beautiful lake, duck food available at the refreshments stand, spots for fishing
0
0
This nature reserve is maintained by volunteers. it is very special because it features a chalk stream which are very rare in the world.
0
0
Brent Reservoir is a good place to escape the urban nature of London, especially on the Welsh Harp Open Space, or north side of the water. There are trails that go through the woods, and the reservoir is often busy with canoeists and small sailboats. There are plenty of ducks and swans to look at too, as well as lots of benches to rest on. The north shore is also part of the Capital Ring, a circular walking trail of around 78 miles (125 km) in length that circles London.
3
0
The river in the tunnel between the two lakes can be high, rather than get your feet wet just follow the car exit and cross the road and you can join back up with the path the other side.
1
0
Tucked away in the heart of Broomfield Park, Palmers Green is this selection of ponds, lakes and quiet ornamental gardens (including a delightful and very peaceful Memorial Garden). Egyptian Geese and the occasional Mandarin duck join the resident Grey Heron and less exotic waterfowl, along with a lovely selection of roses and exotic plants in the nearby minature palm house.
0
0
Built in the 16th C. as fish ponds, became part of a Baroque water garden in the 18th C. The walls around the garden are a listed monument, dating in part to the time of Henry VIII.
0
0
Beautiful little nature reserve full of colours and history
2
0
Around South Mimms, you'll find a variety of water bodies. These include smaller, ecologically significant areas like the Mimmshall Brook and seasonal ponds within Wash Lane Common Nature Reserve. Nearby, you can visit larger ornamental lakes such as Verulamium Park Lake in St Albans, fishing venues like Albans Lakes in Colney Heath, and nature reserves with shallow lakes like Watercress Wildlife Reserve.
For nature walks and wildlife spotting, consider Wash Lane Common Nature Reserve in South Mimms, where you might see kingfishers along the Mimmshall Brook. Verulamium Lake in St Albans is a haven for diverse waterbirds, including swans, geese, herons, and occasionally kingfishers. Watercress Wildlife Reserve also offers important habitats for various species.
Yes, Stanborough South Lake is excellent for families, offering a playground, boat hire, and water zorbing. Verulamium Park Lake in St Albans also features a playground, splash park, and crazy golf, alongside its natural beauty and historical Roman ruins.
Albans Lakes in Colney Heath is a prominent fishing venue with three mature gravel pits, well-stocked with carp and catfish. Stanborough South Lake also offers good opportunities for fishing.
Yes, Verulamium Park in St Albans, home to Verulamium Lake, is rich in history with significant Roman ruins. Additionally, Broomfield Park Water Garden and Conservatory features ponds that were originally 16th-century fish ponds and later became part of an 18th-century Baroque water garden, with walls dating back to Henry VIII's time.
At Brent Reservoir Path (Capital Ring), you can often see canoeists and small sailboats. Stanborough South Lake offers boat hire and water zorbing for visitors.
Wash Lane Common Nature Reserve provides an easy-access trail. Verulamium Lake has a nice footpath around it, and Brent Reservoir Path (Capital Ring) offers calm, foresty paths suitable for walks.
Beyond lake activities, the area around South Mimms offers various outdoor routes. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy options like the 'Charming Garden Shed – North Mymms Park loop from South Mimms' or more moderate routes. There are also MTB trails available, such as the 'High Barnet to South Mimms loop'. For more details, explore the Hiking around South Mimms or MTB Trails around South Mimms guides.
Wash Lane Common Nature Reserve in South Mimms offers a wildlife-rich escape with easy-access trails and benches. Watercress Wildlife Reserve is also described as a peaceful, green place with important habitats, including a shallow lake and wooded glades.
Within South Mimms, the Wash Lane Common Nature Reserve features the Mimmshall Brook, a 9.8-kilometer stream that eventually drains into the River Colne, and a seasonal pond. This area provides a local wildlife habitat away from the nearby motorway services.
Visitors appreciate the variety of experiences, from the calm, foresty paths overlooking Brent Reservoir, which offers an escape from urban environments, to the family-friendly amenities and water sports at Stanborough South Lake. The peaceful atmosphere and diverse habitats of places like Watercress Wildlife Reserve are also highly valued.


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