Best lakes around Great Faringdon are found in a region that combines smaller fishing lakes with access to the River Thames. This area offers various water-based activities, even without extensive natural lakes directly within the town. The landscape provides opportunities for both tranquil fishing and river experiences, catering to different recreational interests.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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This walk can be extended by walking from, and around, the centre of Witney or extending the walk from the Lake along the Windrush Path to Stanton Harcourt for a much longer walk
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The pillars are carved with grotesque heads. These once stood at the top of the steps to the Peto Water Garden but have been moved to their current lakeside location.
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It feels like a gated community that you shouldn't be allowed in more CCTV than Swindon town centre but it seems it does have a public right of way through it. Amazing glass fronted lakeside houses and a trendy cafe by main reception. Worth a visit.
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Lovely walk around the lake. Or further if you like. Look out for the turtle!
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Fantastic gravel paths that pass between the lakes, which are bordered by very posh houses and some even posher cars! Take care if you're on skinny tyres... the gravel is quite deep in places!
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Taking its name from the place where delicious cheese were once loaded onto boats for shipping to London, Cheese Wharf is now a brilliant wild swimming spot on the River Thames near Buscot. It's owned by the National Trust and there are a couple of parking spaces nearby.
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Yes, you'll find pleasant walking opportunities. For instance, Witney Lake offers a lovely walk around its perimeter, with options to extend your route. There are also gravel paths around other lakes, such as those mentioned near lakeside houses, providing unique walking experiences.
The terrain varies. Around Witney Lake, you'll find pleasant paths suitable for leisurely strolls. Other areas, like the paths by lakeside houses, feature gravel, which can be quite deep in places, so consider your footwear if you're on skinny tyres or prefer smoother surfaces.
Great Faringdon and its surroundings are known for fishing lakes. You can visit Folly Country Park Pond for local fishing, or Tucker's Pond, which is popular for match fishing. For dedicated carp anglers, Folly View Day Ticket Carp Fishery, just outside Faringdon, is a newer option stocked with carp up to 30lbs.
Yes, permits are generally required for fishing in the local lakes. For Folly Country Park Pond, permits are managed by the Faringdon Fishing Club. For Folly View Day Ticket Carp Fishery, booking is required via GOCATCH. Always check with the specific venue for their permit and booking requirements.
Yes, you can experience wild swimming at Cheese Wharf Wild Swimming Spot on the River Thames near Buscot. This natural spot is owned by the National Trust and offers a scenic river experience.
Around Witney Lake, visitors often spot local wildlife, including turtles. The Folly Country Park Pond also provides a natural open space where you might observe various species. The River Thames itself is a rich habitat for diverse wildlife.
Many areas are family-friendly. Witney Lake is a pleasant location for walks with children, and Folly Country Park Pond offers a tranquil spot within a larger recreational area that includes facilities like a skatepark. The Grotesque Head Pillars by the Lake also provide an interesting point of discovery for families.
Yes, many of the walking paths around the lakes and the River Thames are suitable for dogs, provided they are kept under control. Folly Country Park Pond, with its gravel track, is a good option for a leisurely stroll with your dog. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding dogs.
Beyond lake activities, the Great Faringdon area offers various outdoor pursuits. You can explore numerous hiking trails, from easy to moderate, or enjoy road cycling routes. For detailed routes and guides, check out the Easy hikes around Great Faringdon, Hiking around Great Faringdon, and Road Cycling Routes around Great Faringdon guides.
Yes, some lake areas offer amenities. For example, the area with the gravel paths by lakeside houses features a trendy cafe. While specific pubs directly adjacent to every lake might be limited, Great Faringdon itself and nearby villages offer various pubs and cafes for refreshments after your visit.
While direct public transport to every specific lake might be limited, Great Faringdon is served by bus routes. You can check local bus services for connections to areas near the lakes. For more information on public transport in the region, you can consult the Oxfordshire County Council website: livewell.oxfordshire.gov.uk.
Parking availability varies by location. For Cheese Wharf Wild Swimming Spot, there are a couple of parking spaces nearby. Folly Country Park also has parking facilities. For other locations, it's advisable to check specific access information or consider parking in Great Faringdon and walking or cycling to your destination.


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