Best lakes around Barrow Upon Humber are often former clay pits that have been rewilded, creating rich habitats and recreational areas. The region, situated in North Lincolnshire, offers a diverse landscape of wetlands, woodlands, and tranquil ponds. These natural features provide opportunities for wildlife observation and outdoor activities. The area's lakes contribute to its natural appeal and offer varied experiences for visitors.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
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Has a carpark with picnic area, lovely walk around nature Reserve with bird watching hides all around.
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Take a hike here in winter, early morning or late afternoon when there is less natural light, as the hundreds of lights around the church wall at ground level are quite spectacular. There has been a church in this location since the reign of William Rufus in the 11th century, as coins from the period were found in the foundations of part of the church during its 19th-century restoration.
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Picturesque village with ample parking around the vicinity of the pond, which is quite spectacular around Christmas, when backlit by hundreds of lights on the wall around St. Helen's Church.
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The village pond is situated in the centre of the village in front of the church.
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St Helen's church in the heart of the village of Welton. There is normally a gathering for worship on a Sunday morning.
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Small, very beautiful nature reserve, formerly a clay/lime pit. Amazingly diverse bird life - lots of young birds in June.
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Lovely country park with a Pond and some benches and picnic area. Would be lovely on a nice day
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Good amount of parking and has refreshments ( dependant on time ) and toilets
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For excellent birdwatching opportunities, visit Far Ings Nature Reserve, a hotspot for migrating birds like kingfishers, herons, and geese. Waters' Edge Country Park & Visitor Centre is another haven for various wildlife, including rare and migratory birds such as kingfishers, grebes, and oystercatchers.
Yes, the region boasts several nature reserves featuring lakes. Far Ings National Nature Reserve is known for its flooded clay pits and extensive reed beds. Waters' Edge Country Park & Visitor Centre offers wetlands and tranquil ponds, while the Barrow Haven Reedbeds Nature Reserve also features lakes that originated from former clay pits.
Many lakes offer accessible walking trails. Waters' Edge Country Park & Visitor Centre provides well-maintained paths suitable for all. You can also find trails within Humber Bridge Country Park, which features a pond. For more extensive options, explore the 'Easy hikes around Barrow Upon Humber' guide, which includes routes like the 'Waters' Edge Visitor Centre – William Blyth Tile Yard loop' starting from Humber Bridge. You can find more details in the Easy hikes around Barrow Upon Humber guide.
Yes, the area is well-regarded for its fishing lakes. Options include Hunters Lodge Fishery, Caistor Lakes Leisure Park, Watermill Leisure Park, Acorn Wood, Claymarsh Lakes, The Barrow Lake (at Picks Cottage Fishery Ltd), and Pasturewood Fisheries. Many are well-stocked and offer amenities for anglers.
Waters' Edge Country Park & Visitor Centre is ideal for families, offering two outdoor play areas, accessible trails, and a lakeside café. Humber Bridge Country Park also features a pond, picnic areas, and amenities like parking and refreshments, making it suitable for a day out. Pickering Park Lake provides a playground and paddling pool alongside its fishing lake.
Yes, near Barrow Haven, there is a flooded claypit specifically used by the Humber Bridge Water Ski Club for waterskiing. This offers a dedicated spot for water sports enthusiasts.
Near the lakes, you can visit St Helen’s Church, Welton, a historical site with a picturesque pond. The church has existed since the 11th century and is known for its festive lighting during Christmas. Many of the lakes themselves, such as those at Far Ings and Barrow Haven, are former clay pits, reflecting the region's industrial history.
Waters' Edge Country Park & Visitor Centre is known for its accessible walking trails, making it a good option for visitors with mobility needs. The park is designed to be inclusive, offering a comfortable experience for everyone.
The best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring is excellent for hearing bitterns 'booming' at Far Ings, and for observing diverse bird life. Summer offers pleasant weather for walking and family activities at places like Waters' Edge. Winter can be magical, especially around St Helen’s Church, Welton, when its pond is beautifully lit.
Yes, several locations offer refreshments. Waters' Edge Country Park & Visitor Centre has a lakeside café. Humber Bridge Country Park also provides refreshments and toilets. Additionally, St Helen’s Church, Welton has a pub nearby, and some fishing lakes like Caistor Lakes Leisure Park and Watermill Leisure Park feature on-site bars or restaurants.
Many lake destinations offer convenient parking. Far Ings Nature Reserve and Waters' Edge Country Park & Visitor Centre both have car parks. Humber Bridge Country Park also provides a good amount of parking. For St Helen’s Church, Welton, there is ample parking in the vicinity of the pond.
The lakes, many of which are rewilded former clay pits, are rich in wildlife. You can expect to see a variety of birds, including kingfishers, herons, geese, grebes, oystercatchers, and even bitterns. The areas also support diverse plant life and other small animals, making them excellent spots for nature observation.


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