Lakes around Hertsmere, a borough in Hertfordshire, England, offer a variety of natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The area features notable lakes, primarily Aldenham Reservoir, which is a central part of a 175-acre country park. These bodies of water provide settings for activities such as walking, fishing, and family outings. The region's lakes are often integrated into larger parklands, offering diverse attractions for visitors.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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Popular around Hertsmere
Oakmere Park was once the grounds of Oakmere House, which is now operated as a restaurant and public house, and provides a welcoming retreat with pleasing views across the park. The classic 19th-century layout of the park with lakes and specimen trees is still largely intact, although the grand entrance lodges and sweeping carriage way have been removed. The park has a lot of history. On the night of 1 October 1916, a ‘Super Zeppelin’ was shot down over the park by Second-Lieutenant WJ Tempest. The road that borders the park was named Tempest Avenue in his honour. The Zeppelin crashed into an oak tree to the east of the park, and the pilot and all his crew were killed.
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The Green Flag Award-winning park contains a range of attractions, including traditional meadows, a Japanese Garden, a holly walk, remains of a Roman Tile Kiln, a tree trail, a Potters Bar Tennis Club, a lake, a pond with a linking water channel, a tree sculpture and a World War Two air raid shelter. The park is crossed by two main paths, one of which is the Diamond Jubilee Cycleway, part of the borough’s greenway network. Parkfield was acquired in 1934 having previously belonged to the Parker family, it was once part of a larger estate containing a house – which was later used as a nunnery, finally becoming a girls’ school before demolition in 1935-36.
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I found no issues riding this section, but when you get to Willows Farm dismount when crossing the bridge
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Such a beautiful setting to stop and admire, check the gates for opening times to enjoy this short trail
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gravel lane which leads onto a grassy section towards Willows Farm, shares itself with a footpath and anglers who park their vehicles on the side
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Better to walk the gravel road rather than the footpath
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Great Lake for Fishing. Not sure if kayak or SUPS are allowed here but I’ll be checking soon. The little island in the middle of the lake looks well worth checking out.
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A nice place for a walk and if someone likes fishing, it will find its place here.
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The lakes around Hertsmere offer a variety of activities. You can enjoy tranquil lakeside walks and nature trails, particularly at Aldenham Reservoir. Fishing is popular at both Aldenham Reservoir and Oakmere Park. Aldenham Country Park also offers sailing, family attractions like an adventure playground and a Winnie-the-Pooh themed area, and a Rare Breeds Farm.
Yes, several lakes in Hertsmere are very family-friendly. Aldenham Reservoir, located within Aldenham Country Park, features an adventure playground, a unique Winnie-the-Pooh themed area, and a Rare Breeds Farm. Oakmere Park and Parkfield also offer family-friendly environments with open spaces and trails.
Aldenham Reservoir is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts, known for its well-stocked 66-acre coarse fishing waters with carp, tench, pike, roach, and more. Day tickets and memberships are available. The two large lakes at Oakmere Park in Potters Bar are also known for freshwater fishing, requiring a rod license and a permit.
Yes, Aldenham Reservoir was originally excavated in 1795 by French prisoners of war. Oakmere Park retains its classic 19th-century layout and has a notable history, including being the site where a 'Super Zeppelin' was shot down during World War I. Parkfield also has historical elements, including remains of a Roman Tile Kiln and a World War Two air raid shelter.
You'll find tranquil lakeside walks and extensive networks of nature and woodland trails. Aldenham Reservoir offers scenic views and is great for birdwatching. Parkfield features traditional meadows, a Japanese Garden, and a tree trail. Mary Forsdyke Garden and Warren Lake also provide a beautiful setting for a short trail.
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity of Hertsmere's lakes. For example, you can find an easy 3.7 km loop around Aldenham Reservoir. You can explore more running options by visiting the Running Trails around Hertsmere guide.
Yes, cycling is an option. Parkfield is crossed by the Diamond Jubilee Cycleway, part of the borough’s greenway network. For more extensive routes, you can check out the Road Cycling Routes around Hertsmere guide or the MTB Trails around Hertsmere guide for mountain biking options.
Aldenham Country Park, home to Aldenham Reservoir, offers a range of amenities including a café, picnic spots with tables and benches, barbecue rental options, and a shop selling farm produce. Camping facilities are also available.
The lakes in Hertsmere can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for family activities, picnics, and enjoying the full range of outdoor recreation. Autumn offers beautiful colours along the trails, and winter provides opportunities for crisp walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Aldenham Reservoir is located within Aldenham Country Park, near Elstree. Public transport options would typically involve bus services connecting from nearby towns like Elstree & Borehamwood, which has a train station. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most current routes.
Oakmere Park in Potters Bar is unique for its classic 19th-century layout with lakes and specimen trees, which is still largely intact. It also has historical significance as the site where a 'Super Zeppelin' was shot down in 1916. The former Oakmere House now operates as a restaurant and public house, offering pleasing views across the park.
Yes, at Aldenham Country Park, which encompasses Aldenham Reservoir, there is a Rare Breeds Farm. It's a center for breeding rare livestock, where visitors can see animals such as Aldenham Longhorn cattle, Bagot goats, Berkshire and Tamworth pigs, and Norfolk Horn and English Leicester sheep. Animal feeding and petting sessions are also available.


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