Best lakes around Wexham offers a variety of aquatic landscapes, from natural ponds to purpose-built lidos and rowing courses. The area features several bodies of water suitable for different activities and interests. These locations often include surrounding woodlands and parklands, providing opportunities for walks and wildlife observation. Many spots are integrated into local villages or larger estates, blending natural features with historical and community elements.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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Dorney Lake is a purpose-built rowing lake and Meetings & Events Venue in England. It is near the village of Dorney, Buckinghamshire, and is around 3 km west of Windsor and Eton, close to the River Thames. The lake is privately owned and financed by Eton College. The 3-mile flat, tarmacked loop around Dorney Lake's rowing course ideal for running. NOTE: Closed to the public from mid-April to September. Public parking onsite What3words: ///entire.vibes.sport
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Dorney Lake is completely closed to all visitors during Spring, Summer and Autumn. NCN 4 which skirts the site is in poor condition after rain, with deep mud. A very regrettable decision by Eton College.
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A sandy beach in London, Ruislip Lido is a popular place for recreation, be that running, swimming or walking. The lido spent nearly 80 years in a state of disrepair but was restored and reopened in 2010. It was originally built as a reservoir for the Grand Union Canal.
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starting and ending point. just follow the path to walk around the Lido. if you have small children use the miniature train and hop on and off
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Owned by Eton College, Dorney Lake is an epic watersports and outdoor activities venue. It holds fantastic triathlons each year and was the London 2012 Olympics rowing venue. You don't have to get wet to visit though, and in the surroundings are footpaths and cycle paths so you can admire it from the snugness of your dry clothes.
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Good place for a coffee stop. "The Deli" serves excellent coffee and has a good range of snacks. There are tables inside and outside or if they're busy, there are benches on the green opposite.
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You can cycle round the Lido but it gets very busy at the weekend and in the summer is packed during holidays on sunny days. Beware of dog walkers with extending leads. It is great to cycle through Ruislip Woods to the Lido if you have a trail bike, but horses use the paths and churn it up after rain so it is almost impassable. The best time to go is very early in the morning in the summer, beautiful, especially if the mist is around.
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Yes, several lakes are great for families. Ruislip Lido is known for its beach and swimming spot, with a narrow-gauge train for children. Cow Pond offers a lovely setting for picnics and bird-watching, while the Village Green and Pond, Chalfont St Giles provides a charming village atmosphere with nearby cafes.
Many lakes provide excellent walking. You can cycle around Ruislip Lido and through Ruislip Woods. Cow Pond is surrounded by woodlands, perfect for a stroll. Additionally, the grounds of Dorney Lake Olympic Rowing Course have footpaths and cycle paths for admiring the scenery.
Yes, Dorney Lake Olympic Rowing Course features wheelchair-accessible paths, allowing visitors to enjoy the surroundings of this impressive venue.
Ruislip Lido is a popular spot with a beach and designated swimming area. However, it's always advisable to check local advisories regarding water quality, as blue-green algae can sometimes affect swimming conditions.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. Ruislip Lido has several places to grab a coffee or a bite to eat. In Village Green and Pond, Chalfont St Giles, there are cafes and pubs, with 'The Deli' being a recommended spot for excellent coffee and snacks.
The lakes are rich in wildlife. At Cow Pond, you can observe ducks and various birds. Ruislip Lido is also great for bird-watching. The surrounding parklands and woodlands often host diverse flora and fauna, including Japanese maples and witch hazels in certain seasons near Cow Pond.
Many areas around the lakes are popular with dog walkers. For instance, Ruislip Lido is frequently used by dog walkers, though it can get busy. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially around other visitors and wildlife.
The best time depends on your preference. Early mornings in summer at Ruislip Lido are beautiful, especially with mist. For Cow Pond and nearby Chapel Wood, autumn offers glorious Japanese maple colours, while January and February showcase colourful witch hazels.
Yes, the region has unique historical elements. Cow Pond features a renovated Baroque-style footbridge and oak arbour, built according to original 1748 designs. Village Green and Pond, Chalfont St Giles is a central feature of a historic village with timber-framed houses.
Beyond walking, you can enjoy cycling, gravel biking, and mountain biking. There are numerous routes, such as the 'Pine Woods in Black Park – Black Park Lake loop' for hiking or 'Jubilee River Weir – View of the Jubilee River loop' for gravel biking. You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking around Wexham, Gravel biking around Wexham, and MTB Trails around Wexham guides.
Yes, there are several easy and circular routes. For instance, the 'Pine Woods in Black Park – Black Park Lake loop from Pinewood Studios' is an easy 4.7 km hike. Other easy loops include 'Deer Sculpture in Langley Park loop' and 'Black Park Lake – Go Ape Black Park loop'. You can explore more options in the Hiking around Wexham guide.
Parking is available at some locations. For example, Ruislip Lido has a car park with a charge of £3.50 for the day. It's always a good idea to check specific lake information for parking availability and fees before your visit.


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