Lakes around Ryde, located on the Isle of Wight, offer a variety of natural and man-made water features. The town's esplanade area includes notable bodies of water such as the Ryde Canoe Lake. This region provides opportunities for leisurely walks and observing local wildlife. The landscape combines coastal elements with inland ponds and nature reserves.
Last updated: August 22, 2026
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There is a cycleway or walkway around the perimeter of Canoe Lake. Many birds come over to you wanting fed if you stand there at the waters edge. Nice to see and popular
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If you look across Lock Lake, you'll be treated to views of Portsmouth's Eastney Marina. A footpath circles the lake, offering charming scenes of boats gently bobbing on the water.
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The coastal path takes you right along the edge of the expansive Bembridge Harbour. It is a working fishing port as well as a popular place to dock pleasure yachts. On the opposite side of the harbour there is a causeway over the Old Mill Ponds which can be crossed on all by the spring tides and is a unique place to run.
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Canoe Lake is located on Southsea Seafront just to the east of South Parade Pier and dates from 1886. The Canoe Lake area has a wide variety of landscapes ranging from the grassland area close to the lake, to the formal planting of the Rose Gardens within the remains of Lumps Fort.
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Alan Hersey Nature Reserve, located on a flood-plain between Springvale and Seaview, is a great place for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for species including snipe, shoveler, mute swan, goldfinch, kingfisher, sparrowhawk, plus more. The reserve is named after Alan Hersey, a former local councillor in Seaview.
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Is a Gift to Nature site next to Naturezones. The pond has been cleared and maintained to make it the perfect environment for dragonflies and damselflies. There is a bench next to the pond and it is a peaceful place for a picnic.
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Visitors frequently enjoy View Across Lock Lake to Eastney Marina for its scenic views of boats, and Bembridge Harbour, known for its houseboats and views over the marshes. The Alan Hersey Nature Reserve is also a popular spot for birdwatching.
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Canoe Lake on the Southsea Seafront offers a play area and cafes nearby. View Across Lock Lake to Eastney Marina and Alan Hersey Nature Reserve are also categorized as family-friendly, providing pleasant walks and opportunities to observe nature.
The area offers a mix of natural and man-made water features. You can find tranquil nature reserves like Alan Hersey Nature Reserve, which is a floodplain ideal for birdwatching. Harbours such as Bembridge Harbour provide views of marshes and coastal elements. Birchmore Pond is maintained for dragonflies and damselflies.
Absolutely. The Alan Hersey Nature Reserve is an excellent spot for birdwatching, where you might see species like snipe, shoveler, mute swan, goldfinch, and kingfisher. Canoe Lake is also known for its birdlife, including ducks and swans.
You can enjoy various outdoor activities. There are numerous hiking trails, such as the route from Ryde to Appley Tower, Alan Hersey Nature Reserve & Seaview. For running, consider the Isle of Wight Coastal Path or shorter loops around Appley Tower. Road cycling routes often pass by Bembridge Harbour. You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking around Ryde, Running Trails around Ryde, and Road Cycling Routes around Ryde guides.
Yes, many lakes offer walking opportunities. A footpath circles View Across Lock Lake to Eastney Marina. At Bembridge Harbour, you can walk along an old railway line with views over the marshes. Canoe Lake also has a cycleway or walkway around its perimeter.
Ryde Canoe Lake, also known as the boating lake, is a pleasant body of water on the Isle of Wight's esplanade. It's popular for leisurely walks around its perimeter, enjoying the birdlife like ducks and swans, and observing radio-controlled boat enthusiasts. Its proximity to cafes, playgrounds, and the beach makes it a convenient stop for families.
Yes, several options are available. Near Bembridge Harbour, you'll find the Toll Gate Cafe, known for its views and popular with locals. Canoe Lake also has a variety of cafes nearby. The general esplanade area in Ryde offers numerous amenities.
The lakes around Ryde can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for birdwatching and leisurely walks, with pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The area's coastal location means it remains accessible and offers unique charm even in cooler months.
Ryde is well-served by public transport, including a ferry terminal and train station, making it accessible. The Ryde Canoe Lake is located directly on the town's esplanade, easily reachable. For other lakes and natural features, local bus services or walking/cycling routes from Ryde town centre are often available.
Many outdoor areas around Ryde are dog-friendly, especially for walks. It's generally advisable to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in nature reserves like Alan Hersey Nature Reserve, to protect wildlife. Specific policies may vary, so always look for local signage.
Bembridge Harbour is unique for its collection of houseboats and the opportunity to walk along an old railway line that offers great views over the marshes. It also features the charming Toll Gate Cafe, making it a popular stop for visitors.


Still not found your perfect lake around Ryde? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.