Top 14 Lakes around Huntingdon

The lakes around Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, are primarily former gravel pits that have been repurposed into natural reserves and recreational areas. You'll find a mix of expansive reservoirs like Grafham Water, smaller nature reserves such as Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve, and dedicated fishing lakes.

Yes, there are many popular routes. Grafham Water offers a well-known 9-mile route around its perimeter, suitable for cycling and walking. For more options, you can explore various hiking and gravel biking routes in the area. For example, there are several easy hikes like the 'Wildlife Lake Bird Hide – Nunn's Bridge loop' and longer moderate hikes such as 'Godmanchester Riverside Park – Houghton Mill loop'. You can find more details on easy hikes, general hiking, and gravel biking guides.

The lakes offer diverse natural features. At Grafham Water, you'll find a 280-acre nature reserve with ancient woodlands and reed beds. Godmanchester Nature Reserve, comprising four lakes, is known for its diverse birdlife and even has Roman heritage, with a Roman well discovered in Roman Lake. Far Fen Lake is recognizable by the island near its eastern shore and is part of an RSPB Nature Reserve.

Parking is generally available at many lake locations. For instance, at Far Fen Lake, parking costs £2. For frequent visitors to Grafham Water, an annual parking pass is available for £50.

The best time to visit can vary. While beautiful year-round, be aware that paths at places like Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve can be flooded and impassable for road bikes between autumn and spring. In August, views at Far Fen Lake might be obscured by trees and weeds, and paths can become muddy after rain. During hot weather, some parts of the track at Grafham Water might have swarms of midges.

Many lakes are family-friendly. Grafham Water, Godmanchester Nature Reserve, and Wildlife Sanctuary Lake are all noted as family-friendly. The varied terrain and open spaces also make them suitable for dog walkers, though specific rules for dogs may apply at nature reserves.

The lakes are rich in wildlife, especially birds. Godmanchester Nature Reserve is known for diverse birdlife, including songbirds, ducks, geese, kingfishers, and overwintering wildfowl. Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve is a magnet for various wildlife, including otters, dragonflies, ducks, swans, and geese. Wildlife Sanctuary Lake is also considered a good area for spotting birds and wildlife.

Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Grenville Lake is a premier destination for carp fishing enthusiasts, known for its significant stock of large carp. Albury & Heron Lakes, located at Huntingdon Racecourse, are exclusive, members-only carp syndicate lakes. Grafham Water is also a popular destination for trout and predator fishing.

Visitors appreciate the scenic beauty and tranquility. Many enjoy the excellent cycling paths, like the one at Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve with beautiful water views. The opportunity for birdwatching and wildlife spotting is also a highlight. The peaceful atmosphere of places like Wildlife Sanctuary Lake allows visitors to relax and reset.

Yes, Godmanchester Nature Reserve has a notable Roman heritage, with a Roman well discovered in Roman Lake during quarrying work in the 1980s. The reserve itself was once gravel pits, adding to its industrial history before becoming a peaceful natural area.

The terrain around the lakes can be varied. For example, the 9-mile route around Grafham Water features a mixture of gravel, mud, and road surfaces, with some inclines on the NW side, making it relatively challenging for intermediate or beginner cyclists. Many hiking routes are rated as easy, while others can be moderate, offering options for different fitness levels.

While the guide focuses on the Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire area, it's worth noting that other Huntingdon locations offer diverse water sports. For instance, Raystown Lake in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, is a major hub for boating, swimming, scuba diving, and even houseboat rentals. Carroll County 1000 Acre Recreational Lake in Huntingdon, Tennessee, is divided into areas for water sports like jet skiing and water skiing, alongside fishing.