Top 11 Lakes around Elsworth
Best lakes around Elsworth are primarily found within nature reserves, often formed from former gravel pits. This region, part of the Cambridgeshire Fens, features a landscape shaped by waterways like the Great River Ouse. The area is characterized by a network of lakes and wetlands, providing diverse habitats for wildlife. These natural spaces offer opportunities for walking, cycling, and observing local flora and fauna.
Best lakes around Elsworth
- The most popular lakes is Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve, a…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Far Fen Lake
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Godmanchester Nature Reserve
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Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve
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Wildlife Sanctuary Lake
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Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve
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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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Amazing cycle lane right through the Fens. Beautiful water views on both sides, an absolute pleasure!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes around Elsworth?
Visitors frequently enjoy Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve, known for its scenic views and a tarmac cycle lane. Other popular spots include Far Fen Lake, a magnet for wildlife, and Wildlife Sanctuary Lake, appreciated for its attractive waterside walks.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes around Elsworth?
The lakes are rich in wildlife. At Far Fen Lake, you might spot otters, dragonflies, ducks, swans, and geese. Godmanchester Nature Reserve is home to songbirds, kingfishers, and overwintering wildfowl. Paxton Pits Nature Reserve is known for kingfishers, nightingales, and a vibrant display of wildflowers, dragonflies, damselflies, and butterflies in spring and summer.
Are there specific nature reserves to visit near Elsworth?
Yes, several notable nature reserves feature lakes. These include Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve, Godmanchester Nature Reserve, and Paxton Pits Nature Reserve. These areas, often formed from former gravel pits, provide diverse habitats and opportunities for observation.
Are there good walking trails around the lakes near Elsworth?
Absolutely. Many lakes offer pleasant walking opportunities. Godmanchester Nature Reserve is superb for walks, and Wildlife Sanctuary Lake features attractive waterside paths. For more extensive options, you can explore various hiking routes around Elsworth, including easy to moderate trails like the Overhall Grove loop. Find more details on Hiking around Elsworth.
Can I cycle around the lakes near Elsworth?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve boasts an excellent tarmac cycle lane that runs parallel to the bus-way, offering beautiful water views. For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are also various MTB trails in the wider Elsworth area. Explore routes on MTB Trails around Elsworth.
Are the lakes around Elsworth suitable for families?
Many of the lake areas are family-friendly. Godmanchester Nature Reserve, Wildlife Sanctuary Lake, and Paxton Pits Nature Reserve are all noted as family-friendly, offering accessible environments for walks and wildlife spotting.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near Elsworth?
The lakes offer different experiences throughout the year. Spring and summer bring vibrant wildflowers, dragonflies, and butterflies, as seen at Paxton Pits Nature Reserve. Autumn and winter are ideal for spotting overwintering wildfowl. However, some paths, like those at Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve, can become flooded and unpassable for road bikes between autumn and spring.
Are there any historical sites near the lakes?
Yes, Godmanchester Nature Reserve has a notable Roman heritage. Roman Lake within the reserve was the site of a Roman well discovered in the 1980s, adding a historical dimension to your visit.
What are the terrain and difficulty levels of trails around the lakes?
The terrain around the lakes, often formed from former gravel pits, is generally flat, characteristic of the Cambridgeshire Fens. Many paths are easy to moderate, suitable for leisurely walks. For example, the Overhall Grove loop offers an easy hiking option. Some areas, especially after rain, can become muddy, as noted for Wildlife Sanctuary Lake.
Can I find facilities like cafes or pubs near the lakes?
While specific cafes directly at every lake might be limited, Paxton Pits Nature Reserve has a visitor centre that offers refreshments and facilities. For pubs and other amenities, you would typically find them in nearby villages and towns surrounding the Elsworth area.
What makes the lakes around Elsworth unique?
The lakes around Elsworth are primarily unique because they are often former gravel pits that have been reclaimed by nature, transforming into vital nature reserves. This creates a distinctive landscape of wetlands and waterways within the Cambridgeshire Fens, providing diverse habitats for wildlife and offering tranquil spaces for outdoor activities.
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