Top 11 Lakes around Halam
Lakes around Halam, a village in Nottinghamshire, England, are often associated with the historical landscape of Sherwood Forest. The area features a mix of natural ponds and man-made lakes, many with historical significance or integrated into country parks. These bodies of water contribute to the region's natural appeal, offering settings for walks and wildlife observation. The landscape includes woodlands, grasslands, and sites with historical connections to English folklore.
Best lakes around Halam
- The most popular lakes is Rufford Abbey and…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Fountain Dale Ponds
Highlight • Forest
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Rufford Abbey and Gardens
Highlight • Historical Site
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Rufford Lake
Highlight • Lake
A path of crushed limestone circles the lake, most …
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Sansom Woods Ponds
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Burntstump Country Park
Highlight • Forest
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Tips from the Community
Delightful & easy path around the Lake and over several footbridges. Suitable for all ages, all abilities and all weathers! Lots of viewpoints and bench seats.
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Originally created in 1750 as a water-source for a corn mill, the lake is now a haven for wildlife, especially waterfowl. A path of crushed limestone circles the lake, most of this is flat and accessible, with one incline near "Scotland Bank" which may be a challenge to some wheelchair users.
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Sansom Woods have great easy walking paths, criss-crossing throughout them. One of the scenic routes leads to / from Burntstump Hill and follows the edge of the wood with views out over the Nottinghamshire hills, finishing up here at the ponds, or you can extend your walk from here into Blidworth Bottoms woods.
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A lovely wood with lots of features. Popular with dog walkers and families there is easy access and a nice combination of wooded and open grassy areas. Lovely for an autumn stroll.
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CLAIMED TO BE THE LEGENDARY location where Robin Hood met the feisty Friar Tuck in the famous folktale, the overgrown remains of a 12th-century moat, lodge, and holy well complex persist in this soggy corner of Sherwood Forest. Fountain Dale’s ancient moat is an impressive waterlogged ditch, 40 feet wide, enclosing what was once a large rectangular artificial island. The feature dates to at least 1251, when the moated island was the site of a hunting lodge, the vestiges of which remain hidden beneath centuries of mud and undergrowth. To date, little archaeological investigation at the site has been carried out. This said, the remains of the medieval manse are likely to be well preserved, having remained unusually undisturbed. The moat and its structures are listed as a Scheduled Monument of National Importance by the public heritage organization Historic England.
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This former Cistercian abbey, originally founded in 1148 by Gilbert de Gaunt, has today been wonderfully restored to its more recent incarnation as a fine Elizabethan house. Amenities include a café, toilets and a gift shop. The surrounding grounds boast a glorious 130-acre (53 ha) country park. There are delightful lakeside and native woodland walking trails, as well as formal gardens to explore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Halam are suitable for families?
Several lakes around Halam offer family-friendly experiences. Rufford Abbey and Gardens features a country park with lakeside walking trails. Sansom Woods Ponds has easy walking paths, and Burntstump Country Park includes a small pond within its woodlands and grasslands, popular with families and dog walkers. Rufford Lake, within Rufford Abbey, also has paths suitable for all ages.
Are there any lakes with historical significance near Halam?
Yes, Fountain Dale Ponds is a natural monument steeped in history, famously known as the legendary meeting place of Robin Hood and Friar Tuck, with remains of a 12th-century moat. Rufford Abbey and Gardens is another significant site, originally a Cistercian abbey founded in 1148, now a restored Elizabethan house with a lake in its grounds.
Where can I go for wildlife spotting around Halam's lakes?
For wildlife spotting, particularly waterfowl, Fountain Dale Ponds is a good spot. Rufford Lake is also noted as a haven for wildlife, especially waterfowl, making it ideal for observation.
Are there accessible walking paths around the lakes for those with mobility considerations?
Yes, Rufford Lake offers a path of crushed limestone that circles the lake, which is mostly flat and accessible. There is one incline near 'Scotland Bank' that might pose a challenge for some wheelchair users. Sansom Woods Ponds also features easy walking paths.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Halam?
Beyond lakeside strolls, the area around Halam offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Hexgreave estate & Southwell Minster loop' or 'The Old Forge – Picnic Spot by the River Trent loop'. There are also running trails like the 'Southwell Trail – Bilsthorpe to Farnsfield Trail' and general cycling routes including the 'Sherwood Pines Adventure Trail'. For more details, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Halam, Running Trails around Halam, and Cycling around Halam guides.
Are there places to eat or drink near the lakes?
Yes, Rufford Abbey and Gardens has a café on-site. Additionally, near Burntstump Country Park, you can find the cosy Burntstump Inn, which serves bar meals and refreshments.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes around Halam?
Many areas around Halam's lakes are dog-friendly. Burntstump Country Park is particularly popular with dog walkers, offering a mix of wooded and open grassy areas for enjoyable strolls with your pet.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Halam?
The lakes around Halam can be enjoyed year-round. The area's woodlands and country parks offer beautiful scenery in spring and summer, while autumn provides vibrant colors. Winter walks can also be pleasant, especially around sites like Rufford Lake, which has an all-weather path.
Are there any viewpoints near the lakes?
Yes, Sansom Woods Ponds is a viewpoint offering scenic routes through the woods with views over the Nottinghamshire hills. Rufford Lake also has several viewpoints and bench seats along its path.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Halam?
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The easy walking paths, opportunities for wildlife observation, and the rich folklore associated with places like Fountain Dale Ponds are frequently highlighted. The accessible country parks, such as Rufford Abbey and Gardens, are also highly valued for their peaceful environments and amenities.
Is there parking available near the lakes?
While specific parking details for each lake are not always listed, country parks like Rufford Abbey and Gardens typically provide dedicated parking facilities for visitors. For other locations, roadside parking or small car parks may be available, but it's advisable to check local signage.
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