Lakes around Chipperfield are primarily characterized by the ponds within Chipperfield Common, a 117-acre woodland area on a chalk plateau at the edge of the Chiltern Hills. This common features a quintet of ponds, providing a natural setting for various activities. The area offers extensive public footpaths and bridleways, making it suitable for walking and cycling. Visitors can observe diverse wildlife and explore historical features such as Bronze Age burial mounds and ancient sweet chestnut trees.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
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Parkrun here every Saturday 9am, get there by 8.30am or the car park gets tricky. All other times the parking is easy 😉
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Lovely lake and doesn’t look like man made at all and would recommend Boots for the path and Park specially if there has been rain over last few days
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Shardeloes Lake is a beautiful man-made lake situated between the villages of Old Amersham & Little Missenden in the Chiltern Hills. The lake provides a tranquil setting for a scenic walk, fishing, and bird-watching opportunities.
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Chipperfield Common is a 117-acre (47 ha) area of former heathland that has developed into beautiful woodland since grazing stopped here in the 1930s. There are a quintet of ponds on the common, as well as eight ancient sweet chestnut trees. Evidence of a Neolithic history can be seen in the form of two Bronze Age burial mounds.
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Good place for a coffee stop. "The Deli" serves excellent coffee and has a good range of snacks. There are tables inside and outside or if they're busy, there are benches on the green opposite.
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Poet John Milton lived here and there is a small museum on the hill out of town.
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The path beyond Toby's Lane is getting overgrown. Don't attempt it in your best cashmere and take a thornproof jacket!
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The area around Chipperfield is characterized by diverse natural features. You'll find the extensive woodland and ponds of Chipperfield Common Woodland and Ponds, which includes a 'quintet of ponds' and ancient sweet chestnut trees. Further afield, Shardeloes Lake offers a tranquil setting with natural beauty, while Rickmansworth Aquadrome Local Nature Reserve features multiple lakes within a nature reserve.
Yes, several lakes are close to historical sites. Chipperfield Common Woodland and Ponds features two Bronze Age burial mounds and ancient sweet chestnut trees dating back to the 1600s. Verulamium Lake is part of a historical site, offering a blend of natural beauty and ancient heritage.
The lakes and surrounding woodlands are rich in wildlife. At Shardeloes Lake, you can enjoy bird-watching and may spot Spotted Flycatchers, Roe, and Muntjac Deer. Verulamium Lake is known for its large numbers of birds, and Rickmansworth Aquadrome Local Nature Reserve is a haven for various bird species.
Absolutely. Chipperfield Common Woodland and Ponds is family-friendly, offering easy access routes and space for picnics. Verulamium Lake and Rickmansworth Aquadrome Local Nature Reserve are also great for families, with footpaths and opportunities to observe nature. The Village Green and Pond, Chalfont St Giles, provides a charming setting with a duck pond and nearby amenities.
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy scenic walks around lakes like Shardeloes Lake and Verulamium Lake. Chipperfield Common Woodland and Ponds has an extensive network of public and permissive footpaths and bridleways, suitable for walking, cycling, and mountain biking. For more structured routes, explore the running trails or road cycling routes around Chipperfield.
Yes, there are numerous walking opportunities. Chipperfield Common Woodland and Ponds features an extensive network of footpaths, including a one-mile Easy Access Route. Verulamium Lake has a nice footpath around its perimeter. While specific difficulty ratings for individual lake paths aren't always provided, many are suitable for leisurely strolls. For more challenging routes, consider the running trails in the wider Chipperfield area, which range from moderate to difficult.
The lakes and ponds are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and active wildlife, ideal for bird-watching and picnics. Autumn brings vibrant foliage to the woodlands, particularly around Chipperfield Common Woodland and Ponds. Even in winter, the serene landscapes provide a peaceful setting for walks, though some paths might be muddy.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. Near Chipperfield Common Woodland and Ponds, Blackwell's Cafe Bar is conveniently located in Chipperfield village. The Village Green and Pond, Chalfont St Giles, is surrounded by cafes and pubs, making it a great spot for a break.
Many of the natural areas and commons around Chipperfield are dog-friendly, allowing well-behaved dogs on leads. Chipperfield Common Woodland and Ponds, with its extensive network of paths, is a popular spot for dog walking. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding dogs in nature reserves or around wildlife.
For Chipperfield Common Woodland and Ponds, free car parks are available. Rickmansworth Aquadrome Local Nature Reserve also offers easy parking, though it can get busy during popular events like the Saturday 9 am Parkrun, so arriving by 8:30 am is recommended then.
Chipperfield Common Woodland and Ponds features a one-mile Easy Access Route, making it suitable for a wider range of visitors. Many of the footpaths around lakes like Verulamium Lake are generally flat and well-maintained, offering relatively easy access.
Yes, Shardeloes Lake is noted as providing opportunities for fishing. It's always advisable to check for any required permits or specific regulations before planning a fishing trip.


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