Top 12 Lakes around Epping Forest
Best lakes around Epping Forest offers a diverse landscape of ancient woodland and open water. This vast area features numerous lakes and ponds, many of which are significant ecological sites or have historical importance. The region provides a variety of natural settings, from tranquil retreats to activity-focused destinations. Epping Forest is a notable natural feature on the outskirts of London, providing accessible green spaces.
Best lakes around Epping Forest
- The most popular lakes is Connaught Water, a forest area that is well-regarded for its accessible pathways and car park. It is a significant spot for birdlife, attracting large numbers of ducks and geese, and is also a popular coarse fishery.
- Another must-see spot is Strawberry Hill Pond, a viewpoint providing a peaceful retreat within Epping Forest. This pond is enveloped by conifers and sweet chestnut trees, offering a tranquil atmosphere for rest or a picnic.
- Visitors also love Blackweir Pond (Lost Pond), Epping Forest, a lake known for its picturesque and tranquil setting. Although man-made, it has integrated seamlessly into the forest landscape, appearing natural and offering a serene spot for quiet contemplation.
- Epping Forest is known for its natural ponds, historical lakes, and man-made waters created from gravel extraction. Visitors can explore a variety of lakes, from ecological sites to those offering recreational activities.
- The lakes around Epping Forest are appreciated by the komoot community. With more than 275 upvotes and 51 photos, the community highlights the diverse appeal of these waters.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Strawberry Hill Pond
Highlight • Viewpoint
The pond is enveloped by conifers and sweet chestnut trees and has a very tranquil and pleasant feel to it. There's a little wooden bench next to the water where you can sit and soak up the atmosphere.
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Connaught Water
Highlight • Forest
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Blackweir Pond (Lost Pond), Epping Forest
Highlight • Lake
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Stanstead Mill Stream and Hooks Marsh Lake, Lee Valley
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Hainault Forest
Highlight • Viewpoint
The views from within the forest of the surrounding area are fantastic. There's also a boating lake, miniature henge and café to explore.
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Lee Valley Reservoir Chain – North of King George's Reservoir
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
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Bittern Hide, Lee Valley Wildlife Discovery Centre
Highlight • Rest Area
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Hooks Marsh Lake Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
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Lea Valley Canal
Highlight (Segment) • River
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Epping Lower Forest
Highlight • Forest
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Tips from the Community
Strawberry Hill Pond is located within Epping Forest and provides a peaceful retreat perfect for a rest and picnic following a forest walk. The pond is enveloped by conifers and sweet chestnut trees and has a very tranquil and pleasant feel to it. There's a little wooden bench next to the water where you can sit and soak up the atmosphere.
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Hainault Forest is an ancient forest home to an array of beautiful plant and animal species. There's a canopy of oak and hornbeam and a burst of seasonal bluebells in spring, accompanied by an impressive display of around 158 bird species! The views from within the forest of the surrounding area are fantastic. There's also a boating lake, miniature henge and café to explore.
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run to the back of Strawberry Hill Ponds off the main path. Into some fun single trails towards the Green Ride.
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Great vies of Seventy Acre Lake, in Lee Valley Country Park.
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A bridge spans over the waterway that connects Hooks Marsh and Seventy Acres Lake. The bridge is in an elevated position, providing sensational views across the water.
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Ice cream van on route! Yum!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Epping Forest are best for wildlife spotting?
For excellent wildlife spotting, visit Connaught Water, which attracts large numbers of ducks and geese, especially in winter, and swans, great crested grebes, and ducks for breeding. Nightingales also visit in summer. Highams Park Lake is another significant ecological site, home to swans, mallards, great crested grebes, tufted ducks, coots, moorhens, pochards, herons, and cormorants.
Are there family-friendly lakes with easy access in Epping Forest?
Yes, Connaught Water is particularly well-regarded for its accessible pathways and car park, making it easy for families to enjoy. Strawberry Hill Pond also offers a peaceful retreat ideal for a rest or picnic after a forest walk, with a wooden bench for relaxation.
What historical significance do some of the Epping Forest lakes hold?
Highams Park Lake, one of the largest bodies of open water, was created in 1794 by renowned landscape designer Humphry Repton as part of the grand landscaping around the former Highams Estate. This historical context adds to its appeal as a significant ecological site.
Can I go fishing in the lakes around Epping Forest?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Connaught Water is a popular coarse fishery, stocked with carp, bream, tench, roach, rudd, and perch, and features purpose-built fishing platforms, including some suitable for disabled anglers. Highams Park Lake also offers angling opportunities with species like eels, perch, pike, roach, tench, and rudd.
Are there opportunities for boating or water sports in Epping Forest lakes?
Yes, Hollow Ponds (also known as Leyton Flats) is notable for its boating lake where visitors can hire rowing boats. For more active water sports, Luxborough Lakes provides opportunities for outdoor swimming, inflatable courses, and paddleboarding.
Which lakes offer a tranquil and secluded experience?
Blackweir Pond, often called the 'Lost Pond,' is known for its picturesque and tranquil setting, offering a serene spot for quiet contemplation. Strawberry Hill Pond also provides a peaceful retreat, enveloped by conifers and sweet chestnut trees.
What kind of walking and hiking trails are available near the lakes?
Epping Forest offers numerous trails around its lakes. For hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Beech Trail' or the 'Lea Valley Country Park loop.' More challenging options include the 'Iris Pond – Epping Thicks loop.' You can find more details on these and other hiking routes in the Hiking around Epping Forest guide.
Are there cycling routes that pass by the lakes?
Absolutely. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Main Path, Bury Wood – Strawberry Hill Pond loop' or the 'Highams Park Boating Lake – Hollow Pond loop.' For more gravel-focused rides, consider the 'Epping Forest Gravel Trails.' Discover more cycling options in the Cycling around Epping Forest guide.
Where can I find amenities like cafes near the lakes?
Hollow Ponds is a good option, as it features several cafes nearby, making it a pleasant spot for leisure and recreation. Luxborough Lakes also has a small on-site cafe, catering to visitors looking for refreshments after activities.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths around the lakes?
Connaught Water is particularly noted for its accessible pathways, making it a good choice for visitors using wheelchairs or pushchairs. Its car park also contributes to its ease of access.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Epping Forest?
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and active wildlife, while autumn brings vibrant foliage. Winter is excellent for birdwatching, especially at Connaught Water, where large numbers of ducks and geese overwinter.
Are dogs allowed on the trails around the lakes?
Epping Forest is generally dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for walks with your canine companion. However, always keep dogs under control, especially near wildlife, and check for any specific restrictions around sensitive ecological areas or fishing spots.
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