Top 3 Lakes around Little Hadham
Best lakes around Little Hadham are found in this Hertfordshire village and its surrounding area. Little Hadham itself features local water bodies, with a wider selection of lakes and nature reserves accessible nearby. The region offers diverse natural landscapes, from ancient forests to wildlife-rich reserves, providing various outdoor activities. These locations are known for their natural features and offer opportunities for recreation and observation.
Best lakes around Little Hadham
- The most popular lakes is Hatfield Forest Lake, a lake…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Hatfield Forest Lake
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Amwell Nature Reserve
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Lea Valley Canal
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Beggar's Hall Fishing Lake
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Lake Bridge
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Tips from the Community
A great way to view the lake and even feed the ducks from the pellet machine. Great for families and walkers.
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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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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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Amwell Nature Reserve is a wonderful place for a stroll, with beautiful viewpoints and much to interest wildlife enthusiasts. It is host to myriad habitats including reedbeds, grassland and woodland. The most interesting aspect of the reserve is Great Hardmead Lake and its islands. Summer is notable for the 21 species of dragonfly that hunt across the waters, while winter sees migrating birds inhabit the site. There's even a designated Dragonfly Trail, which is open between May and September.
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Great area for cycling with several route options meandering along a smattering of water channels / marshes / lakes. Tons of birdlife. Some nice opportunities to stop along the way.
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Lots of dog walkers, pushchair, a nice weekend try an alternative route if you are riding with a group
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Great path. Can ride it from the olympic park in east london. Either cycle back or return by train from either Hertford or Ware to Liverpool Street Station. A few sections can be very busy at times
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes near Little Hadham?
The lakes around Little Hadham are rich in wildlife. At Amwell Nature Reserve, you can observe 21 species of dragonfly in summer and various migratory birds in winter. Hatfield Forest Lake, located within an ancient royal hunting forest, is home to ancient trees, diverse fungi, rare insects, and a wide array of birdlife, including deer.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Little Hadham?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Hatfield Forest Lake and Amwell Nature Reserve are both categorized as family-friendly, offering opportunities for strolls and wildlife observation. Lake Bridge at Hatfield Forest is also noted as great for families and walkers, where you can feed the ducks.
Can I go fishing at the lakes near Little Hadham?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity in the area. Wickham Hall Reservoir, near Little Hadham, is a dedicated fishing lake for members of the Bishop's Stortford and District Angling Society, offering Roach, Rudd, Bream, and Carp. Beggar's Hall Fishing Lake also provides a tranquil setting for fishing on the western edge of Hatfield Forest. Additionally, Rib Valley Fishing Lakes, a short drive away, offer both fly and coarse fishing.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond visiting the lakes, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can explore running trails, gravel biking routes, and mountain biking trails. For detailed routes, you can check out guides like Running Trails around Little Hadham, Gravel biking around Little Hadham, and MTB Trails around Little Hadham.
Are there specific walking or hiking trails around the lakes?
Yes, there are several walking opportunities. Amwell Nature Reserve features a dedicated Dragonfly Trail open from May to September. Hatfield Forest Lake is part of an ancient forest with numerous paths for exploration. The Lea Valley Canal also offers a great path for walking or cycling.
Are the lakes around Little Hadham dog-friendly?
Many outdoor areas in the region are dog-friendly. Wickham Hall Reservoir explicitly allows dogs under owner control. Hatfield Forest, as a National Trust site, generally welcomes dogs, though specific rules may apply in certain areas. It's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially in nature reserves, to protect wildlife.
What are the parking options at the lakes?
Parking is generally available at the main lake attractions. Wickham Hall Reservoir has controlled access via a combination locked gate, implying dedicated parking for members. Hatfield Forest Lake, being a popular National Trust site with a café, also has parking facilities. For other locations, it's advisable to check specific site information before your visit.
What natural features make the lakes around Little Hadham unique?
The lakes offer diverse natural beauty. Hatfield Forest Lake is set within a rare intact Royal Hunting Forest, featuring ancient trees and a meandering river. Amwell Nature Reserve boasts Great Hardmead Lake with islands, surrounded by reedbeds, grassland, and woodland, providing beautiful viewpoints.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks near the lakes?
Yes, Hatfield Forest itself is a significant historical site, being the only remaining intact Royal Hunting Forest dating back to Norman times. It includes a medieval warren which is a Scheduled Monument. Beggar's Hall Fishing Lake also holds a poignant history as the site of a tragic plane crash in 1999.
Is wild swimming permitted in any of the lakes near Little Hadham?
Information regarding official wild swimming spots in the immediate vicinity of Little Hadham's lakes is not readily available. Generally, swimming in reservoirs or private fishing lakes like Wickham Hall Reservoir or Rib Valley Fishing Lakes is not permitted for safety and environmental reasons. It is always recommended to check with local authorities or site management before attempting to swim in any natural body of water.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes for wildlife viewing?
For optimal wildlife viewing, late spring and summer are excellent. Amwell Nature Reserve is particularly notable in summer for its 21 species of dragonfly, with a dedicated Dragonfly Trail open from May to September. Winter also offers opportunities to see migratory birds at Amwell. Hatfield Forest is beautiful year-round, with diverse fungi in autumn and birdlife throughout the seasons.
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