Lakes around Little Laver, located in Essex, UK, offer a variety of natural settings for outdoor exploration. The region is characterized by its ancient woodlands and diverse water bodies, ranging from historic forest lakes to tranquil village ponds. These areas provide opportunities for observing local wildlife and engaging in various outdoor activities. The natural landscapes around Little Laver are appreciated for their peaceful environments.
Last updated: October 15, 2026
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Need to pay for car entrance at the National Trust forest. Check opening times as they can stop letting cars in after a certain time.
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Bought a coffee from the National Trust cafe and sat near to the lake in Hatfield Forrest.
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This scenic fishing lake sits on the western edge of Hatfield Forest. You can enjoy the tranquil countryside setting from a bench while watching fishermen reel in their dinner. The lake holds a poignant history as the site of the tragic Korean Air Cargo Flight crash in 1999, a sombre reminder amidst its serene surroundings.
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Hatfield Forest is an ancient royal hunting forest, and considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval forests in the world. In the past, deer were kept in the forest for hunting. Today you'll find deer aplenty still, though no longer pursued for the same reason. The forest boasts ancient trees, over 3,500 species of fungi, rare insects and a diverse array of birdlife. There's also a beautiful lake, café and river that meanders through.
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Enjoy a break here and admire the village pond. There’s a pub opposite too!
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Hatfield Forest is a 403.2 hectare biological Site of Special Scientific Interest in Essex, three miles east of Bishop's Stortford. It is also a National Nature Reserve and a Nature Conservation Review site. It is owned and managed by the National Trust. A medieval warren in the forest is a Scheduled Monument. Hatfield is the only remaining intact Royal Hunting Forest and dates from the time of the Norman kings. Other parts of the once extensive Forest of Essex include Epping Forest to the southwest, Hainault Forest to the south and Writtle Forest to the east. Hatfield Forest was established as a Royal hunting forest in the late eleventh century, following the introduction of fallow deer and Forest Laws were imposed on areas by the king. Deer hunting and chasing was a popular sport for Norman kings and lords and the word ‘forest’ strictly means place of deer rather than of trees. In the case of Hatfield the area under Forest Law consisted of woodlands with plains.
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Bery nice off road. I suspect it can get muddy. I crossed it with a road bike without any problems.
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Yes, several lakes in the area are great for families. Hatfield Forest Lake is set within an ancient royal hunting forest, offering plenty of space for exploration, wildlife spotting, and a café. Stondon Green Pond provides a peaceful village setting, often with a pub nearby for refreshments. Beggar's Hall Fishing Lake, on the edge of Hatfield Forest, is a tranquil spot where families can watch fishermen and enjoy the countryside.
The area offers a variety of walks, from easy strolls to more extensive trails. You can enjoy walks around Hatfield Forest Lake, exploring the ancient woodlands and spotting wildlife. For more options, check out the easy hikes around Little Laver guide, which includes routes like the 'Ongar Food & Wine – Chipping Ongar Castle loop' and the 'River Stort Towpath loop'.
The lakes around Little Laver are set in diverse natural environments. Hatfield Forest Lake is part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest and National Nature Reserve, featuring ancient trees, over 3,500 species of fungi, rare insects, and a rich variety of birdlife. The surrounding forests, like Epping Lower Forest, offer dense woodlands and off-road tracks, providing a true escape into nature.
Yes, the region provides excellent cycling opportunities. You can find off-road tracks suitable for mountain biking in areas like Epping Lower Forest. For more detailed routes, explore the MTB Trails around Little Laver guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Little Laver guide, which feature various routes for different skill levels.
Hatfield Forest Lake is located within Hatfield Forest, an ancient royal hunting forest considered one of the best-preserved medieval forests in the world. It dates back to the Norman kings, who used it for deer hunting. A medieval warren in the forest is also a Scheduled Monument, offering a glimpse into centuries of history. Additionally, Beggar's Hall Fishing Lake holds a poignant history as the site of the tragic Korean Air Cargo Flight crash in 1999.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. At Hatfield Forest Lake, there is a National Trust café where you can grab a coffee. Stondon Green Pond has a pub conveniently located opposite, perfect for a break.
For Hatfield Forest Lake, parking is available, but please note that there is a charge for car entrance at the National Trust forest. It's advisable to check opening times as they may stop letting cars in after a certain time.
Yes, Beggar's Hall Fishing Lake is a scenic fishing lake located on the western edge of Hatfield Forest. It's a tranquil spot where you can enjoy the countryside while watching fishermen.
The areas around the lakes are rich in wildlife. At Hatfield Forest Lake, you can spot deer, a diverse array of birdlife, and numerous species of insects and fungi within the ancient forest. The surrounding woodlands also provide habitats for various other creatures.
While not exactly 'hidden,' Stondon Green Pond offers a charming, less-frequented village pond experience, often with a local pub nearby, providing a quiet escape. Beggar's Hall Fishing Lake, nestled on the edge of Hatfield Forest, also provides a serene and tranquil setting away from larger crowds.
Visitors particularly enjoy the peaceful and natural settings. The ancient woodlands and diverse wildlife at Hatfield Forest Lake are highly appreciated, as are the off-road tracks for cycling in places like Epping Lower Forest. The tranquility and family-friendly atmosphere of spots like Stondon Green Pond and Beggar's Hall Fishing Lake also receive positive feedback.


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