Top 6 Lakes around Olney
Best lakes around Olney, Buckinghamshire, offer a variety of natural features and recreational opportunities. The region is characterized by its market town heritage and surrounding green spaces, including several lakes and country parks. These areas provide settings for walking routes and exploring the natural landscape. Visitors can find diverse aquatic environments, from large country park lakes to smaller, more secluded ponds.
Best lakes around Olney
- The most popular lakes area is Harrold Bridge and Harrold-Odell Country Park, a country…
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Tongwell Lake
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Harrold Bridge and Harrold-Odell Country Park
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Great Linford Manor Park: Manor House, Church, and Ponds
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Emberton Country Park
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Old Boat at Castle Ashby Fishery
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Tips from the Community
Great Lake to run around, paths are a little bumpy but that doesn’t spoil the run
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Great Linford Manor Park is a unique site in Milton Keynes with a history stretching back to at least the Saxon times. Many features of the park, for example the Water Gardens and nearby Wilderness Garden date from the 17th and 18th centuries when the park was laid out to provide the setting to the impressive Manor House, which is now privately owned.
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Great Linford Manor Park is a unique site in Milton Keynes with a history stretching back to at least the Saxon times. Many features of the park, for example the Water Gardens and nearby Wilderness Garden date from the 17th and 18th centuries when the park was laid out to provide the setting to the impressive Manor House, which is now privately owned.
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Tongwell Lake seems to be Milton Keynes’ very own swan haven. The path around the lake is easy to follow as it only takes around 30 minutes to walk the whole way round. At times it’s not possible to see the lake through the reeds and bushes but in the openings you can enjoy some nice views of nature. There’s a large island in the middle of the lake, so if you’re a birdwatcher we recommend bringing some binoculars to spot any birds over there.
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Tongwell Lake seems to be Milton Keynes’ very own swan haven. The path around the lake is easy to follow as it only takes around 30 minutes to walk the whole way round. At times it’s not possible to see the lake through the reeds and bushes but in the openings you can enjoy some nice views of nature. There’s a large island in the middle of the lake, so if you’re a birdwatcher we recommend bringing some binoculars to spot any birds over there.
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We did the 3.63 mile loop from Harrold Odell county park. It's a fab park and route, although you'll need wellies after a wet winter! There is also a lot of farmland in the area and we heard bird scarers almost the whole way round, even walking through the village, so if you're bringing a dog with a noise aversion, you may want to keep them on the lead.
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Harrold is a picturesque Bedfordshire village on the banks of the River Great Ouse. The village enjoys a prime location on the edge of the Harrold-Odell Country Park, which comprises two large lakes, parkland and water meadows. The village is notable for its ancient bridge, which spans the river and connects to an equally ancient causeway to the village of Carlton.
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Emberton Country Park is blessed with 200 acres (81 ha) of peaceful parkland and shimmering lakes. Beloved by walkers and cyclists alike, there are a number of circular trails on offer. The park also has children's play areas, picnic spots and plenty of places where you can feed the ducks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Olney, Buckinghamshire?
Around Olney, you'll discover a variety of lakes, including large country park lakes, smaller secluded ponds, and historical parkland ponds. These diverse environments offer opportunities for walking, birdwatching, and enjoying the outdoors.
Are there family-friendly lakes near Olney?
Yes, several lakes around Olney are great for families. Harrold-Odell Country Park features two large lakes, parkland, and water meadows, perfect for a family day out. Tongwell Lake offers an easy path and opportunities to see swans, while Great Linford Manor Park combines historical interest with natural beauty and ponds. Emberton Country Park also has children's play areas and picnic spots.
What natural features can I expect to see at the lakes around Olney?
The lakes around Olney offer diverse natural features. At Tongwell Lake, you can observe swans and other birds, especially on the central island. Linford Lakes Nature Reserve is particularly rich in wildlife, with reedbeds, wet woodland, and various birds like herons, egrets, and terns, as well as otters and water shrews. Many areas also feature parkland and water meadows.
Are there easy walking trails around the lakes near Olney?
Absolutely. Tongwell Lake has an easy-to-follow path around its perimeter, taking only about 30 minutes to complete. Emberton Country Park offers several circular trails suitable for walkers and cyclists. The paths at Harrold-Odell Country Park are also popular for walks, though some areas might require wellies after wet weather.
What historical sites can be found near the lakes?
Near the lakes, you can explore sites with rich history. Great Linford Manor Park is a unique site with a history stretching back to Saxon times, featuring 17th and 18th-century landscape design, an impressive Manor House, and a church. Harrold Bridge, an ancient bridge spanning the River Great Ouse, is another notable historical feature.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Olney?
Beyond walking, the area around Olney's lakes offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for jogging, mountain biking, and gravel biking. For specific routes, check out the guides for Running Trails around Olney, MTB Trails around Olney, and Gravel biking around Olney.
Are there specific trails for running near the lakes?
Yes, there are several running trails that incorporate or pass by the lakes. For example, you can find routes like the 'Emberton Country Park – Emberton Park Café loop from Olney' or the 'Grebe Lake – Otter Pool loop from Olney'. More options are available in the Running Trails around Olney guide.
Can I go mountain biking or gravel biking near the lakes?
Yes, the region offers opportunities for both mountain biking and gravel biking. You can explore trails such as the 'Grand Union Canal – Bradwell Windmill loop' for mountain biking or the 'Olney Market Square – Old Railway Bridge loop' for gravel biking. Detailed routes can be found in the MTB Trails around Olney and Gravel biking around Olney guides.
When is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Olney?
The lakes around Olney can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant weather for walks and picnics, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the trails can be picturesque, though some areas might be muddy, so appropriate footwear like wellies is recommended.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near Olney?
Visitors particularly appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of the lakes. Many enjoy the easy-to-follow paths for walking, the opportunities for birdwatching, and the family-friendly amenities like play areas and picnic spots. The blend of natural landscapes with historical elements, such as at Great Linford Manor Park, is also highly valued.
Are there facilities like cafes or pubs near the lakes?
While specific facilities vary by lake, country parks like Emberton Country Park often provide amenities such as cafes and picnic spots. The village of Harrold, near Harrold-Odell Country Park, also offers local establishments.
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