Top 4 Lakes around Haddenham
Best lakes around Haddenham, Buckinghamshire, offer a mix of natural beauty and historical significance. The area features several charming ponds and repurposed quarry lakes, providing diverse natural landscapes. These water bodies are integral to the local environment, supporting various wildlife and offering tranquil settings for observation. The region's geology, including chalk pits, has shaped some of its unique aquatic features.
Best lakes around Haddenham
- The most popular lakes is Old Kiln Lakes Wetland Habitat, an other natural area thatโฆ
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Old Kiln Lakes Wetland Habitat
Highlight โข Natural
Tip by
The Lyde Garden
Highlight โข Lake
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Old Kiln Lakes (Former Chinnor Chalk Pit)
Highlight (Segment) โข Structure
Tip by
Chinnor Works Lake
Highlight โข Lake
Tip by
Watermead Lake
Highlight โข Viewpoint
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
This is one of the quarries here, a part of the former Chinnor Chalk Pit, now flooded and known as Old Kiln Lakes. The lakes are freshwater, but very alkaline, and there was a warning to the public issued in 2012 to not swim in there. It's a striking and moon-like place, looking very dramatic and slightly out-of-this-world. A definite must!
2
0
Watermead Lake is a beautiful and peaceful place situated on the northern end of Aylesbury. There are many waterbirds often seen bobbing around the river and a lovely bandstand where the locals picnic.
0
0
This quarry is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and well known by geologists for its phenomenal history. Packed with fossils, some of the finds here date back 100 million years. There's no public access, but you can catch glimpses of its bright high-alkaline water from the surrounding footpaths.
0
0
Chinnor Works Angling Society has been running for over 25 years, we use to have the fishing at the Cement Works.
0
0
Chinnor, Chalk and Cement Mr. W. Benton's Cement and Lime Works opened in Chinnor in 1908, but cement making on a truly industrial scale did not begin until 1919. Output of cement from Chinnor peaked at about 5600 tonnes per week in the 1990s. Up to 120 people were employed at any one time. The cement works closed in 1999 and there are plans for the re-development of the site, using the flat areas for housing but also with opportunities for recreation and conservation in the water filled quarries The scale of chalk extraction for cement making can be seen from a short walk along the Ridgeway National Trail. The Ridgeway runs on a high causeway between the large quarries, giving views of the pits through the boundary fences. (Do not cross over or through the fences). Geology One of the chalk quarries has been protected as a geological Site of Special Scientific Interest as it has particularly good exposures of both the Lower Chalk and Middle Chalk geological layers. Both layers have given upimportant fossil ammonites.
2
0
The Lyde, a tributary of the River Thames, rises here and the garden is planted with primulas, astilbes, gunnera and hostas. Originally three watercress beds, surrounded by large and beautiful wych elms, it has โ as a result of elm disease โ become a wilderness. The garden is open at the ownersโ discretion from 9am โ 4pm daily. Dogs are not permitted. See: carington.co.uk/gardens/lyde-garden
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What unique natural features can I explore around Haddenham?
Haddenham offers a variety of unique natural features. You can observe the geological history and high-alkaline water at Old Kiln Lakes Wetland Habitat, a Site of Special Scientific Interest known for fossils. Another striking feature is Old Kiln Lakes (Former Chinnor Chalk Pit), a flooded chalk pit with a dramatic, moon-like appearance.
Are there any family-friendly lakes or ponds in Haddenham?
Yes, several spots are great for families. The Lyde Garden is a man-made park where children can enjoy the diverse plant life. Within Haddenham village, Church End Pond, Rudds Lane Pond, and Banks Pond are all home to various waterfowl, offering pleasant spots for leisurely strolls and observing ducks.
Where can I enjoy a peaceful walk and observe wildlife near Haddenham?
For a peaceful experience, visit Church End Pond, the largest and most historic village pond, located in front of St Mary's Church. It's a central feature for observing waterfowl. Watermead Lake, situated north of Aylesbury, is also a beautiful and peaceful place known for its waterbirds and a bandstand.
What historical or cultural significance do the lakes and ponds in Haddenham hold?
Church End Pond is the most historic, having existed for hundreds of years and serving as a focal point for village events. It has even been featured in television programs and a Muppet film. The Old Kiln Lakes Wetland Habitat is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, well-known to geologists for its phenomenal history and fossil finds dating back 100 million years, reflecting the region's past chalk extraction.
Are there any fishing opportunities at the lakes around Haddenham?
Yes, Manor Farm Lake (also known as 'The Ponny') in Haddenham, Buckinghamshire, is a 1.5-acre lake primarily used for fishing. It's stocked with various fish species like carp, roach, and perch. However, access is for members and guests of The Tring Anglers only, with no day tickets available.
Can I go swimming in the lakes near Haddenham?
It is not recommended to swim in the Old Kiln Lakes. Specifically, for Old Kiln Lakes (Former Chinnor Chalk Pit), a warning was issued in 2012 against swimming due to the highly alkaline freshwater.
What kind of plants and gardens can I see near the lakes?
The Lyde Garden is a notable spot, planted with primulas, astilbes, gunnera, and hostas. This garden is where The Lyde, a tributary of the River Thames, rises. It's open daily from 9 am to 4 pm at the owners' discretion, and entry is free.
Are there any easy hiking trails near the lakes in Haddenham?
Yes, there are several easy hiking options nearby. You can find routes like the 'Grassy Field Path โ River Crossing loop from Cuddington' or the 'Thame Town Centre โ Black Goo Coffee & Cakes loop from Thame'. For more details and routes, explore the Easy hikes around Haddenham guide.
What are the options for running or cycling near Haddenham's lakes?
For running, you can find moderate trails such as the 'Cafe Norsk loop from Haddenham'. If you prefer cycling, there are gravel biking routes like 'The Phoenix Trail โ Phoenix Trail loop from Thame'. More information on these activities can be found in the Running Trails around Haddenham and Gravel biking around Haddenham guides.
Are dogs allowed at the lakes and ponds in Haddenham?
While many outdoor areas are dog-friendly, it's important to note that dogs are generally not permitted at The Lyde Garden. For other village ponds like Church End, Rudds Lane, and Banks Pond, dogs are usually welcome on leads, but always check local signage.
What are the opening hours for The Lyde Garden?
The Lyde Garden is open at the ownersโ discretion from 9 am to 4 pm daily. It is free to enter and explore.
Where can I find more information about Haddenham's village ponds?
For more details on the village ponds in Haddenham, Buckinghamshire, including Church End Pond, Rudds Lane Pond, and Banks Pond, you can visit the Haddenham Parish Council website: haddenham-bucks-pc.gov.uk.
Most popular routes around Haddenham
Most popular attractions around Haddenham
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Haddenham? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
