Top 11 Lakes around Broughton
Best lakes around Broughton are primarily found in the Cambridgeshire region of England, characterized by a network of former gravel pits transformed into significant nature reserves. These areas feature multiple lakes, often connected by the River Ouse, providing diverse habitats for wildlife. The landscape offers opportunities for walking, cycling, and birdwatching, making it a notable natural destination. This region is known for its reclaimed industrial sites that now support rich ecosystems and offer accessible outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Broughton
- The most popular lakes is Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve, a lake and cycle way. This reserve features a series of scenic lakes formed from old sand and gravel quarries, now a nature reserve with an excellent cycle lane.
- Another must-see spot is Far Fen Lake, a natural monument and lake. Part of the RSPB Nature Reserve, it is recognizable by the island near its eastern shore and offers opportunities for birdwatching.
- Visitors also love Wildlife Sanctuary Lake, a natural lake and viewpoint. This area is noted for spotting birds and wildlife, providing attractive waterside walks.
- Broughton is known for its nature reserves, former gravel pits, and wildlife habitats. These areas offer a variety of lakes to explore, from large reserves to smaller, secluded spots.
- The lakes around Broughton are appreciated by the komoot community, with 26 upvotes and 9 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Far Fen Lake
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Godmanchester Nature Reserve
Highlight • Historical Site
As well as songbirds, ducks, geese, kingfishers and overwintering wildfowl, the reserve is also notable for its Roman heritage. Roman Lake was the site of a Roman well, discovered during quarrying work in the 1980s.
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Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve
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Wildlife Sanctuary Lake
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Benches Along the Busway Cycle Path
Highlight • Cycleway
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Tips from the Community
Being here three times in the nice weather, I consider this a place where you can reset yourself after your daily routine or others, where you can sit and listen to the seagulls and the geese and any other sound. In the evening the sunset was so astonishing during the summer. I understood the place was becoming muddy after a few days of rain.
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Parking is £2. There is a portaloo and a bin in the carpark. This hike was limited in what you could see, in August the trees and weeds blocked most of the view. For safety note that the pathway takes the narrow road that cars are entering and exiting. There are two crossings over the guided path where the buses are traveling at speed. The first part of the walk by the Ouse was lovely as was the last part on a field where you ton off by the weight limited bridge. I would imagine in winter the path would be a mush pit.
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The cycleway passes between a series of scenic lakes formed from old sand and gravel quarries, now a nature reserve. The path is often flooded and unpassable for road bikes between autumn and spring though.
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The tarmac cycle lane runs parallel to the bus-way, both providing an excellent link between Huntingdon and Cambridge. Cycle-parks at each major bus stop.
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The bus whizzes through the yellow grain landscape like oiled lightning. The intercity bus from Cambridge to St Ivy rolls over a special lane bus track and reaches an impressive speed. Today he transports the four of us to the "Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve", in the lake landscape we hike and do "birdwatching". “Fen Drayton Lakes was originally a flooded sand and gravel pit bordering river floodplains. Today the area is a magnet for a variety of wildlife including otters, dragonflies, ducks, swans and geese. There is something to see (and hear) here all year round.” (https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/fen-drayton-lakes/)
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Like many nature reserves in England, Godmanchester Nature Reserve was once gravel pits. The peaceful nature could not be further away from its industrial history. Keep an eye out for songbirds, ducks, geese, kingfishers and overwintering wildfowl as you run through.
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Part of the RSPB Nature Reserve, Far Fen Lake is recognisable by the island near its eastern shore.
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The busway cycle path provides plenty of spots to stop and take in a view or have some refreshments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Broughton?
The lakes around Broughton are primarily former gravel pits that have been transformed into significant nature reserves. These areas feature multiple lakes, often connected by the River Ouse, providing diverse habitats for wildlife and offering accessible outdoor activities.
Are there good places for birdwatching near Broughton?
Yes, the lakes around Broughton are excellent for birdwatching. Far Fen Lake, part of the RSPB Nature Reserve, is known for its birdlife, and Wildlife Sanctuary Lake is noted for spotting various birds and wildlife. Godmanchester Nature Reserve is also home to songbirds, ducks, geese, kingfishers, and overwintering wildfowl.
Are there family-friendly lakes for walks around Broughton?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Wildlife Sanctuary Lake offers attractive waterside walks, and Godmanchester Nature Reserve is considered a superb place for a walk with its four lakes and varied wildlife. The cycle path near Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve also provides easy access for family outings.
What cycling opportunities are available around the lakes?
The area boasts an excellent cycle lane, particularly around Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve. This tarmac cycle lane runs parallel to the bus-way, offering beautiful water views and linking Huntingdon and Cambridge. There are also many spots with benches along the busway cycle path to stop and enjoy the views.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Broughton?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but be aware that the cycle path at Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve can be flooded and unpassable for road bikes between autumn and spring. Some paths, like those near Far Fen Lake, might become muddy in winter after rain. For clear views and easier walking, warmer months are generally preferred, though wildlife viewing can be excellent in all seasons.
Are there historical sites near the lakes?
Yes, Godmanchester Nature Reserve is notable for its Roman heritage. Roman Lake within the reserve was the site of a Roman well, discovered during quarrying work in the 1980s.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond walking and cycling around the lakes, you can explore various outdoor activities in the wider Broughton area. Options include hiking, road cycling, and running. Popular routes include the Houghton Mill loop for running and various scenic road cycling routes.
Where can I park when visiting the lakes?
For Far Fen Lake, parking is available for £2. Specific parking information for other lakes may vary, but many nature reserves in the area typically offer dedicated parking facilities.
What makes Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve special?
Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve is highly popular for its series of scenic lakes, which were formed from old sand and gravel quarries. It features an excellent cycle lane that offers beautiful water views and serves as a vital link between Huntingdon and Cambridge.
Can I find facilities like benches or restrooms near the lakes?
Yes, the busway cycle path, which runs alongside many of the lakes, provides plenty of spots to stop and rest, including benches. For example, Benches Along the Busway Cycle Path highlights these facilities. A portaloo and bin are also available at the car park for Far Fen Lake.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Broughton?
Visitors particularly appreciate the peaceful natural environment, the opportunities for birdwatching, and the attractive waterside walks. The excellent cycle paths with beautiful water views are also a highlight, allowing people to reset and enjoy the tranquility of the fens.
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