Top 17 Lakes around Oxton
Best lakes around Oxton are found in Nottinghamshire, an area characterized by its mature woodlands and countryside. This region offers a variety of natural and man-made lakes, often integrated into country parks or nature reserves. Visitors can explore accessible walking trails and areas designated for wildlife conservation. The landscape provides opportunities for outdoor activities within a tranquil setting.
Best lakes around Oxton
- The most popular lakes is Vicar Water Lake, a trail that features a giant sculpture of a…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Vicar Water Lake
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Fountain Dale Ponds
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Annesley Pit Top and Wind Turbine
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Newstead and Annesley Country Park
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Golden Hand Sculpture
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Tips from the Community
The park has different trails, including flat paths and steeper climbs. If you're looking for a challenge, try the route up Clipstone Tip for spectacular views.
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This 10-foot-high sculpture of a human hand was created by an artistic cooperative called BANK well over 20 years ago. It was crafted as part of a national cycling network project, organized by the charity Sustrans. From afar, it appears to be constructed of metal, however, it’s in fact made from fiberglass.
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good starting point for walks and bike rides, can easily get into sherwood pines from here and all surrounding routes, a very nice area and seems popular for fishing
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A 100m tall Wind Turbine was built in the centre of the site
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Annesley Pit Top is one of few pit tops that has escaped the generic ‘restoration’ process. Campaigning by local birdwatchers and conservation bodies, its uniqueness as an old pit top was thankfully rescued. Having a cluster of small settling ponds and extensive rough grassy areas rendered it particularly attractive for wildlife, and in recognition of its value, it was soon designated a SINC (Site of Importance for Nature Conservation).
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I expect to find around Oxton, Nottinghamshire?
Around Oxton, Nottinghamshire, you'll discover a mix of natural ponds, man-made lakes, and water bodies integrated into country parks and nature reserves. These diverse settings offer varied experiences, from historical sites to tranquil wildlife havens.
Are there family-friendly lakes near Oxton?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Vicar Water Lake is particularly popular, featuring a giant hand sculpture, a café run by a charitable organization, bike racks, and a playground. Fountain Dale Ponds, with its historical significance and waterfowl, also offers a family-friendly natural setting.
What historical or cultural sites are associated with the lakes in the Oxton area?
The area is rich in history. Fountain Dale Ponds is famously claimed to be the legendary location where Robin Hood met Friar Tuck. It features the overgrown remains of a 12th-century moat and lodge, making it a Scheduled Monument of National Importance.
Where can I find accessible walking trails around lakes near Oxton?
Rufford Lake, located within Rufford Abbey Country Park, offers accessible walking trails. A path of crushed limestone circles the lake, providing easy routes through lakeside and native woodland, as well as formal gardens within the 130-acre park.
Are there opportunities for cycling or gravel biking near the lakes?
Absolutely. The region around Oxton offers various cycling and gravel biking routes. For example, you can explore routes like 'Blidworth Wood & The River Trent loop' or 'Sherwood Pines Trail Centre – Death Valley Trail loop'. You can find more details and routes in the Gravel biking around Oxton and Cycling around Oxton guides.
What natural features or wildlife can I observe at the lakes?
Many lakes are havens for wildlife. Rufford Lake is known for its waterfowl, and Fountain Dale Ponds is a nice spot for bird watchers with lots of waterfowl. Annesley Pit Top, with its cluster of small settling ponds, is designated a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) due to its attractiveness for wildlife.
Are there any lakes suitable for a quiet, adult-only retreat near Oxton?
Yes, Oakmere Lakes, directly associated with Oxton, Nottinghamshire, offers a peaceful, adult-only retreat. Nestled within 14 acres of mature woodland, it's a certified Camping & Caravan Club site, ideal for those seeking tranquility.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Oxton?
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences, from the unique features like the giant hand sculpture at Vicar Water Lake to the historical intrigue of Fountain Dale Ponds. The komoot community has shared 11 photos and given 97 upvotes, highlighting the area's appeal for walks, nature observation, and exploring local history.
Are there any lakes near Oxton that are part of a nature reserve?
Yes, Newstead and Annesley Country Park is a nature reserve featuring a gravel road and is located close to a train station. Additionally, Rainworth Water, including L Lake, forms part of the Rainworth Lakes Site of Special Scientific Interest and is a Local Nature Reserve.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the lakes?
Yes, Vicar Water Lake has a café run by a charitable organization. For other options, you'll find cafes, pubs, and accommodation in the charming countryside villages and larger towns of Nottinghamshire, often a short drive from the lake areas.
What are some options for hiking around the lakes near Oxton?
There are numerous hiking opportunities. Vicar Water Lake offers various trails, including flat paths and steeper climbs, with spectacular views from Clipstone Tip. You can find more easy hikes in the area, such as 'Cafe in the Woods – Blidworth Woods loop', by checking the Easy hikes around Oxton guide.
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