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Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden

Top 8 Lakes around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden

Lakes around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden are set within a landscape shaped by the River Great Ouse, offering a variety of water-based activities and natural areas. This region features several notable lakes, many of which are former gravel pits now utilized for angling, watersports, and nature observation. The area includes significant leisure resorts and nature reserves, providing diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation. These lakes contribute to the local environment, supporting various wildlife and offering accessible outdoor spaces.

Best lakes around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden

  • The most popular lakes is Grafham Water, a lake that offers a route around the reservoir with varied terrain. It is known for its cycling opportunities and scenic views.
  • Another must-see spot is Priory Lake, a lake within a country park managed by Bedfordshire Borough Council. Visitors can expect meadows, reed beds, and woodland, suitable for relaxing rides and observing nature.
  • Visitors also love The Grange Estate Trails, a trail system with pleasant paths by small lakes and along brooks. It is a location where kingfishers can be spotted.
  • Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden is known for its reservoir lakes, former gravel pits, and river-fed water bodies. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, catering to different outdoor interests.
  • The lakes around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden are appreciated by the komoot community, with 41 photos and 177 upvotes highlighting their appeal.

Last updated: May 18, 2026

Grafham Water

Highlight • Cycleway

Grafham Water is a site of Special scientific Interest covering almost 2000 acres. Built in 1965, it is the 8th largest reservoir in England. The lake hosts a water sport centre and cafe. Making it a great place to take a break.

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Priory Lake

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Lovely park and lake with plenty of tracks and routes for all abilities and bike builds.

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The Grange Estate Trails

Highlight • Trail

At the eastern end of the Bedford River Park is the 297-acre (120 ha) Grange Estate. Situated on the River Great Ouse's floodplain, there are many pleasant trails by little lakes and along brooks. It’s a great place to spot kingfishers.

South east of the estate is the village of Willington, where you find Danish Camp, one of the few remaining water-filled moats left from the Viking Age. Today, there's an adjacent restaurant in a Norwegian log cabin. This characterful eatery is a great place to relax after a walk in the Bedford River Valley Park.

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Paxton Pits Nature Reserve

Highlight • Natural

Myriad habitats can be found at Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, with beautiful lakes, riverside, meadow, reedbed, scrub and woodland. The visitor centre offers refreshments, facilities and friendly expertise.

Kingfishers and nightingales are a common sight and overwintering wildfowl visit during the colder months. In spring and summer, wildflowers, dragonflies, damselflies and butterflies create a vibrant environment.

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Kingfisher Hide

Highlight • Lake

Off the main track to the left you take a narrow wooden walkway out to the hide which has great views over Heronry South Lake as well as Heronry North Lake.

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Popular around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden

Running Trails around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden

MTB Trails around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden

Road Cycling Routes around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden

Hiking around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden

Cycling around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden

Gravel biking around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden

Tips from the Community

Neil Sneade
July 1, 2023, Grafham Water

The cycle path along the top of the dam is wide and flat and gives great views across the reservoir. Reach it from the Visitor Centre at the northern end although access at the southern end is trickier as you have to squeeze through a narrow gap next to a locked gate by the main road.

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Off the main track to the left you take a narrow wooden walkway out to the hide which has great views over Heronry South Lake as well as Heronry North Lake.

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North West trail blue bell woods

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Braders
April 22, 2023, Grafham Water

Good cafe usually busy but plenty of space for bikes and a playpark for youngsters. Great crazy golf course due to open May 2023.

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Adie
August 30, 2022, Grafham Water

Grafham Water is a reservoir with a circumference of about 16 km (10 mi). It is the eighth largest reservoir in England by volume and the third largest by area. Just a few short miles from Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire, Grafham Water, England's third largest reservoir can be found nestled in 1500 acres of beautiful countryside. Designated as a SSSI the western end features a 280 acre nature reserve and is home to ancient woodlands, reed beds and bird and amphibian species. There are big open spaces to take in the views and facilities include visitor centre and two cafes. Bike hire is also available and there is a trail around the water. It can get muddy at times.

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Grafham Water is a site of Special scientific Interest covering almost 2000 acres. Built in 1965, it is the 8th largest reservoir in England. The lake hosts a water sport centre and cafe. Making it a great place to take a break.

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Great waterside riding through the park on Route 51 or using the cycle friendly paths and trails around Priory.

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Some nice single track and wooded pathways. Look out for walkers though.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of lakes can I find around Wyboston, Chawston, and Colesden?

The lakes in this area are primarily former gravel pits, now repurposed for various activities. You'll find significant leisure resorts like Wyboston Lakes Resort, which features large lagoons, and dedicated fishing complexes such as the Chawston Lakes Syndicate. Many also serve as important habitats for wildlife.

Where are the best places for fishing in the region?

The area is well-known for angling. The Grafham Water is a popular spot. For dedicated fishing, the South Lagoon at Wyboston Lakes Resort is excellent for Pike, Zander, and Carp, with good disabled access. The Chawston Lakes Syndicate, including Willow Lake and Orchard Lake, also offers year-round carp fishing.

Are there opportunities for watersports on the lakes?

Yes, the Wyboston Lakes Resort offers a range of watersports. While specific details on which lakes are used for watersports are not provided, the resort complex is known for offering various land and water-based activities alongside its fishing lakes.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near the lakes?

The lakes and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. At Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, you can spot kingfishers, nightingales, overwintering wildfowl, dragonflies, damselflies, and butterflies. The Begwary Brook Nature Reserve at Wyboston Lakes Resort is home to diverse species like marsh marigolds and kingfishers.

Are there family-friendly walking options around the lakes?

Absolutely. Priory Lake, within a country park, offers meadows, reed beds, and woodland suitable for relaxing family walks. The Grange Estate Trails also provide pleasant paths by small lakes and along brooks, ideal for families.

Can I find accessible trails for all abilities near the lakes?

Yes, some areas offer good accessibility. The South Lagoon at Wyboston Lakes Resort provides good disabled access and parking close to fishing pegs. For walking, Priory Lake offers tracks and routes suitable for various abilities, though some parts may restrict cycling.

What are some popular walking routes near these lakes?

You can explore various walking routes in the area. For instance, there are easy hiking routes like the 'Acorn Cafe – St Mary Magdalene Church loop from Roxton' or 'The Osiers Ancient Woodland – Coneygeare Bridge loop from St. Neots'. For more options, check out the Hiking around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden guide.

Are there cycling routes suitable for different skill levels?

Yes, the region offers diverse cycling opportunities. Grafham Water is particularly known for its cycling route around the reservoir, offering varied terrain. For more routes, including gravel biking options, refer to the Gravel biking around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden guide.

When is the best time of year to visit the lakes for outdoor activities?

The lakes are enjoyable year-round. Fishing syndicates like Chawston Lakes operate all year, with Orchard Lake known for good fishing even in winter. Spring and summer bring vibrant wildflowers, dragonflies, and butterflies, making it ideal for nature observation and walks. Overwintering wildfowl visit during colder months.

Where can I find a peaceful spot away from crowds?

For a quieter experience, consider exploring the nature reserves. The Begwary Brook Nature Reserve at Wyboston Lakes Resort offers marsh and open pools for observing wildlife. Paxton Pits Nature Reserve also provides myriad habitats and a visitor centre, offering a serene environment.

Are there places to eat or stay near the lakes?

The Wyboston Lakes Resort offers a wide range of amenities, including accommodation, an 18-hole golf course, a health club, and a spa. Additionally, nearby towns like St Neots, Great Barford, and Bedford provide various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes in this region?

Visitors appreciate the diverse outdoor opportunities, from the varied terrain and scenic views at Grafham Water to the peaceful nature observation at Priory Lake. The chance to spot kingfishers and other wildlife, along with well-maintained trails, are frequently highlighted.

Can I find trails suitable for running near the lakes?

Yes, there are several running trails available. You can find routes like the 'Roxton running loop via Kingfisher Way' or various loops around Priory Park from St. Neots. For a comprehensive list of options, consult the Running Trails around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden guide.

Most popular routes around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden

Running Trails around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden

Most popular attractions around Wyboston, Chawston And Colesden

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