Top 13 Lakes around Effingham
Best lakes around Effingham offer a variety of natural and historical water bodies within a scenic landscape. The area features serene mill ponds, natural pools, and historical canal locks, often surrounded by forests and walking trails. These locations provide opportunities for quiet reflection and outdoor activities. Effingham's lakes are integrated into a landscape that combines natural beauty with historical significance.
Best lakes around Effingham
- The most popular lakes is Friday Street Mill Pond, a lake that powered a hammer mill until the eighteenth century. It is a relatively quiet spot, popular at weekends.
- Another must-see spot is Silent Pool, a natural monument. Visitors can find an Indian restaurant, a cookery school, and a gin distillery nearby.
- Visitors also love Black Pond, an other natural feature. This calm oasis is popular with dog walkers, hikers, and cyclists, and was historically dug to supply water to Claremont Gardens.
- Effingham is known for natural ponds, historical mill ponds, and canal-side water features. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from tranquil spots to those with nearby amenities.
- The lakes around Effingham are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 350 upvotes and 40 photos shared.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Friday Street Mill Pond
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Silent Pool
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Coxes Lock and Mill Pond
Highlight • River
en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coxes_Lock?wprov=sfla1
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Tilling Springs Pond
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Riverside Nature Reserve
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The reserve is home to a number of plant, animal, and rare bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and warblers.
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Tips from the Community
To a passerby, a mill pond like the one presented here might seem ordinary, but there is another point of view: For example, in the story world of Otfried Preußler (1923 to 2013), who became famous with the imaginative children's books he wrote, things look quite different: Here, such a mill pond is also the extremely exciting habitat of a water sprite family. His still popular book "Der kleine Wassermann" tells wonderful stories of the adventures experienced by the family's offspring. On an audio book CD, the water sprite mother sings her son to sleep for the winter: "Little water sprite, close your eyes and get some rest, I'll sit here for a while and watch you sleep. May your dreams guide you and touch you wonderfully, and when you wake up again, a new year will begin for you."
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The tow path in the Basingstoke canal, from Woking to the junction with the Wey, it is paved and smooth. The tow path in the Wey Navigation canal is more bumpy, roots etc. Apt for a gravel bike, perhaps not so for a road bike.
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The lakes are just as beautiful as the pleasant wooden path through the marshland. It's very quiet here, although you can hear the noise of the nearby highway. Nevertheless, you can find and enjoy the silence here - we were thrilled by this little paradise!
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Indian cafe/shop very much present & seems worth trying. If you're into gin, there's also a distillery with bar (booking might be needed).
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...many feel an eerie stillness looking out over the still water surrounded by the evergreen box trees. Legend has it that this is due to the fate of a woodcutter's daughter who was surprised by a nobleman on a horse as she bathed in the pool. Having failed to lure her to the bank, he rode his horse into the water and caused the girl to move out to deeper water where she drowned. When the woodcutter returned and found her body, he also found the nobleman's hat floating on the water. It bore the crest of none other than Prince John! Source: https://www.visitsurrey.com/listing/silent-pool/66361101/
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Pretty pond with loads of white ducks who came to say hello through the fence. Pond is private and in accessible
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular lakes and water features to visit around Effingham?
Visitors often enjoy the serene atmosphere of Friday Street Mill Pond, a historical site that once powered a hammer mill. Another favorite is Silent Pool, known for its natural beauty and nearby amenities like a gin distillery and Indian restaurant. Black Pond is also a calm oasis popular with dog walkers and cyclists.
Are there family-friendly lake activities available in the Effingham area?
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Friday Street Mill Pond is a lovely spot for a quiet outing, and Silent Pool offers a beautiful natural setting with nearby food options. While swimming is generally not permitted in these ponds, the surrounding areas provide pleasant walks and opportunities for nature observation.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see at the lakes around Effingham?
The lakes around Effingham offer a mix of natural ponds and historical mill ponds. You'll find tranquil water bodies often surrounded by forests, providing opportunities for birding and observing plant life. For example, Silent Pool is a natural monument, and Black Pond is a calm oasis within a natural setting.
Are there historical sites or features near the lakes?
Absolutely. Friday Street Mill Pond is a historical site, having powered a hammer mill until the eighteenth century. You can also visit Coxes Lock and Mill Pond, which is part of the Wey Navigation and features historical locks.
Are there hiking trails near the lakes around Effingham?
Yes, the area offers various hiking opportunities. Many lakes, like Black Pond, are popular with hikers and cyclists. You can find numerous routes, including easy hikes and longer trails, that pass by these water features. Explore options like the 'Easy hikes around Effingham' guide for more details: Easy hikes around Effingham.
Can I go cycling near the lakes in Effingham?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity around the lakes. Black Pond, for instance, is frequented by cyclists. The towpaths along canal features like Coxes Lock and Mill Pond also offer cycling routes. For more cycling options, check out the 'Road Cycling Routes around Effingham' guide: Road Cycling Routes around Effingham.
Are any of the lakes dog-friendly for walks?
Yes, Black Pond is particularly popular with dog walkers, offering a calm oasis for both pets and their owners. Many of the surrounding trails and natural areas are also suitable for dog walks, but always check local signage for specific rules.
What amenities are available near Silent Pool?
Silent Pool is unique for its array of nearby amenities. You'll find an excellent Indian restaurant, a cookery school, a gin distillery (which may require booking), a vineyard, and a cheese shop, making it a great spot for a longer visit.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Effingham?
Visitors appreciate the tranquil and scenic beauty of the area's lakes and ponds. Many enjoy the quiet reflection offered by spots like Friday Street Mill Pond, while others are drawn to the unique combination of nature and local businesses near Silent Pool. The opportunities for walking, cycling, and observing wildlife are also highly valued.
Are there any lakes that are less crowded, especially on weekends?
While Friday Street Mill Pond can be popular on weekends, it generally remains a relatively quiet spot. For a truly calm experience, exploring some of the less-known natural ponds or visiting during off-peak hours might offer more solitude.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Effingham?
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for outdoor activities. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, while winter can provide a peaceful, crisp atmosphere for walks. The best time depends on your preferred activities and scenery.
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