Top 6 Lakes around Widdrington Station And Stobswood
Best lakes around Widdrington Station And Stobswood are primarily located in the immediate surrounding area, particularly within the Druridge Bay region. This landscape features diverse natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and various recreational opportunities, often on land reclaimed from former opencast mining operations. These locations offer a mix of freshwater and brackish lagoons, supporting unique habitats and a wide range of flora and fauna.
Best lakes around Widdrington Station And Stobswood
- The most popular lakes is Druridge Bay Country Park,…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Druridge Bay Country Park
Highlight • Natural
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Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake
Highlight • Forest
but a nice gentle stroll around a lake. easy going and just took it easy and rnjoyed the wildlife
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Hauxley Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural Monument
This picturesque sanctuary attracts a diverse range of birds, including tree sparrows and …
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Ladyburn Lake, Druridge Bay Country Park
Highlight • Beach
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Cresswell Pond
Highlight • Lake
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Popular around Widdrington Station And Stobswood
Tips from the Community
Free to park for 72 hours. theres a pub in the carpark that serves food. we didnt try it though but a nice gentle stroll around a lake. easy going and just took it easy and rnjoyed the wildlife
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A paradise for terns. Also herons, barn owls, black-headed gulls, ...
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even on a windy late March day theres dozens of species on the lake.
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This pond was formed due to subsidence caused by the collapse of old mining works, resulting in a unique brackish water habitat that connects to the sea. This ecological feature makes it an ideal feeding ground for wading birds, particularly during the spring and autumn migrations when rare species are frequently spotted. Notably, avocets nested here in 2011, marking the northernmost location in the UK where they have done so. The pond also serves as a roosting spot for a substantial number of waterfowl, including greylag and pink-footed geese in small numbers.
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Refreshment and toilet facilities at the Druridge Bay Country Park Visitor Center.
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Hauxley nature reserve has undergone a remarkable transformation, with the addition of the eco-friendly Wildlife Discovery Centre. This picturesque sanctuary attracts a diverse range of birds, including tree sparrows and coots. The reserve boasts stunning flowers like viper's bugloss and northern marsh orchids, attracting butterflies and dragonflies. Originally a coal mine, Hauxley was transformed by the Northumberland Wildlife Trust. Visitors can enjoy a circular walk, hides for bird watching, a wildlife sightings board, and a rubbing disc trail. The Lookout Café offers delicious refreshments with panoramic views. With volunteering opportunities and educational workshops, Hauxley nature reserve offers an immersive nature experience.
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Once the spoil tip for nearby coal mines, this area is now a nature reserve with a large artificial lake. It's a great place for a walk either as part of a longer loop or as a gentle stroll just around the lake. Popular with families and dog walkers.
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a nice little walh around the county park, be sure to hire some paddle boards if you want to experience the water
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes for visitors near Widdrington Station and Stobswood?
The most popular lakes are primarily located in the Druridge Bay region. Key spots include Druridge Bay Country Park, featuring Ladyburn Lake, and Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake. Visitors also highly appreciate Hauxley Nature Reserve for its wildlife.
Are there good walking trails around the lakes in this area?
Yes, there are several excellent walking trails. Ladyburn Lake in Druridge Bay Country Park offers an easy, flat, and pushchair-friendly 1.5-mile circular walk. Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake also has tarmac and cut grass paths ideal for walking. For more options, you can explore various routes in the hiking guide for Widdrington Station And Stobswood.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes are rich in wildlife. Hauxley Nature Reserve is known for diverse birds like tree sparrows and coots, and is one of the best places to spot red squirrels. Cresswell Pond Nature Reserve is a haven for wading birds and wildfowl, especially during migrations, with avocets nesting there. Ladyburn Lake and Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake also support various birds, dragonflies, and even water voles.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes?
Absolutely. Druridge Bay Country Park, home to Ladyburn Lake, has play areas for children, picnic benches, and a visitor centre with a cafe. The 1.5-mile circular walk around Ladyburn Lake is also pushchair-friendly. Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake is also popular for family walks and picnics.
Can I do watersports on the lakes near Widdrington Station and Stobswood?
Yes, several lakes offer watersports. Ladyburn Lake in Druridge Bay Country Park is popular for non-motorised activities such as kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. Wild swimming is also permitted with appropriate permits. Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake also offers windsurfing, canoeing, and organised open water swimming training.
What facilities are available at the lake parks?
Druridge Bay Country Park features a visitor centre with a cafe, shop, and toilets. There are also play areas and picnic benches. Hauxley Nature Reserve has an eco-friendly Wildlife Discovery Centre with The Lookout Café, offering refreshments and panoramic views. Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake has accessible fishing platforms and is conveniently located next to the Woodhorn Museum.
Are the lake areas accessible for people with limited mobility or wheelchairs?
Yes, accessibility is a focus in some areas. Druridge Bay Country Park features accessible pathways and facilities. At Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake, tarmac and cut grass paths provide good access around the lake, and accessible fishing platforms are available for less-able visitors, including wheelchair users. Cresswell Pond Nature Reserve also has a spacious, accessible bird hide.
Is there parking available at the lake destinations?
Yes, parking is generally available at the main lake destinations. For instance, Druridge Bay Country Park offers parking facilities. Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake also provides free parking for up to 72 hours.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes for birdwatching?
For birdwatching, spring and autumn migrations are particularly rewarding. Cresswell Pond Nature Reserve is a prime location during these seasons when rare species are often spotted. Year-round, it's a haven for wading birds and wildfowl.
Are there any mountain biking trails near the lakes?
Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities in the wider area. You can find various routes, including those around Druridge Bay, in the MTB Trails guide for Widdrington Station And Stobswood. One route, 'Gravel Path – Druridge Bay Country Park loop from East Chevington', is a moderate 49.3 km ride.
Can I bring my dog to the lake parks?
Many of the lake areas are dog-friendly. Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake is a popular spot for dog walkers. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in nature reserves, to protect wildlife.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known lakes worth exploring?
Beyond the main parks, a circular walk near the former opencast mine between Stobswood, Widdrington Station, and Ulgham features unnamed lakes teeming with birds and dragonflies. These offer a more rugged, natural experience for those interested in the area's industrial heritage.
Most popular routes around Widdrington Station And Stobswood
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