Top 6 Lakes around Bury St. Edmunds
Best lakes around Bury St. Edmunds are situated in a region characterized by its gently rolling Suffolk countryside and historical significance. The area features a mix of natural landscapes, including woodlands, meadows, and former gravel pits now transformed into wildlife havens. These bodies of water contribute to the region's biodiversity and offer various recreational opportunities. Bury St. Edmunds itself is a historic market town, providing a cultural backdrop to the surrounding natural attractions.
Best lakes around Bury St. Edmunds
- The most popular lakes is Gravel Track by Livermere Lake, a trail that offers various types of terrain and forest turns. It is noted for its scenic views and challenging sections for cyclists.
- Another must-see spot is West Stow Country Park Lake, a family-friendly trail within a 125-acre park. Visitors can explore unspoilt countryside, nature trails, and observe wildlife from bird hides.
- Visitors also love Ickworth Park, an other natural highlight featuring quaint lakes, serene woodland, and historic landmarks. It is a vast, scenic estate suitable for cycling and exploring.
- Bury St. Edmunds is known for its nature reserve lakes, park lakes, and dedicated fishing lakes. These offer a variety of experiences, from wildlife observation and walking to angling and family outings.
- The lakes around Bury St. Edmunds are appreciated by the komoot community, with 17 upvotes and 5 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Gravel Track by Livermere Lake
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West Stow Country Park Lake
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Ickworth Park
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Lackford Lakes Visitor Centre
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More information: suffolkwildlifetrust.org/lackford-lakes-visitor-centre
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Grafham Water Sailing Lake
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Tips from the Community
It's a vast, scenic estate to cycle through, mostly on compacted, dusty gravel, but there are chunkier bits in some parts. Entering through Horringer and exiting via Chevington worked for me.
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Lots of different types of terrain to learn, pay attention to some of the forest turns not all are obvious, few lift your bike over log sections, one built for short people section but fun, watch your head;-). Beware of a couple of very bust main road crossings!!! This time of year give yourself time, lights and toes and fingers need warmth. Shout out to 'Wolf Way' for the route;-)
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As part of the sprawling Ickworth Estate, Ickworth Park showcases quaint lakes, serene woodland and historic landmarks.
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This lake will be the first one you see upon arriving in the area near the visitor center. It's the largest in terms of surface area, and numerous water activities such as sailing or canoeing take place on it. The trail that runs along the side of the lake offers excellent views at some points.
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In addition to being able to grab something to eat or drink, at this center, you can get information to make the most of your visit to Lackford Lakes. They also have a shop where you can even rent binoculars if you've left yours at home. Remember that dogs are only allowed on the red trail and must be on a leash; guide dogs are the only ones allowed on the other trails and in the center. More information: https://www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/lackford-lakes-visitor-centre
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Not 100% sure the cut through from Ampton to Gt Livermere is a legit cycle trail. I was chased off by a very grumpy gamekeeper who told me it was a footpath not a bridleway.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Bury St. Edmunds are best for walking and nature observation?
For excellent walking and nature observation, consider Lackford Lakes Nature Reserve. It's a 400-acre wildlife oasis with diverse habitats, birdwatching hides, and tranquil walking trails. Another great option is West Stow Country Park Lake, offering nature trails, heath and woodland walks, and bird hides within its 125 acres.
Are there family-friendly lakes and activities near Bury St. Edmunds?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly experiences. Nowton Park features a children's play area, a large maze, and picnic spots, alongside its small lakes. West Stow Country Park Lake is also ideal for families, with an adventure playground and the unique Anglo-Saxon Village. Lackford Lakes Nature Reserve hosts regular family events and has a visitor centre.
Where can I go fishing around Bury St. Edmunds?
The region offers several dedicated fishing lakes. Hawstead Lakes are popular for coarse fishing, stocked with carp, perch, roach, and more. Rougham Lake (Rushbrooke Lake) is another tranquil spot primarily used for coarse fishing. Additionally, the Bury St Edmunds Angling Association manages several waters, including Middle Reservoir, which is well-regarded for carp.
What historical or cultural sites are near the lakes?
Near West Stow Country Park Lake, you can explore the unique West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village, which provides an immersive glimpse into early medieval England. Ickworth Park also features historic landmarks within its vast, scenic estate.
Are there accessible walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, Lackford Lakes Nature Reserve offers the blue Kingfisher trail, which is wheelchair-friendly, ensuring accessibility for a wider range of visitors.
What facilities are available at Lackford Lakes Nature Reserve?
At Lackford Lakes Nature Reserve, you'll find a visitor centre with a cafe where you can get food and drinks. They also offer information about the reserve and have a shop where you can rent binoculars. For more details, you can visit Suffolk Wildlife Trust's website.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes?
At Lackford Lakes Nature Reserve, dogs are permitted only on the red trail and must be kept on a leash. Guide dogs are the only exception, allowed on other trails and inside the visitor centre. For other parks like Nowton Park and West Stow Country Park, it's generally advisable to check their specific dog policies before visiting.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes are rich in wildlife. At Lackford Lakes Nature Reserve, you can spot spectacular dragonflies, butterflies, vast flocks of overwintering birds, kingfishers, and various ducks. Nowton Park's pond attracts aquatic life and grass snakes, while the school lake is home to moorhens, mallards, and grey herons. West Stow Country Park Lake hosts wildfowl and thousands of migrating toads in spring. Rougham Lake is home to barn owls, woodpeckers, deer, foxes, and various bird species.
Are there cycling opportunities around the lakes?
Yes, Ickworth Park is a vast, scenic estate suitable for cycling, mostly on compacted gravel paths. Gravel Track by Livermere Lake also offers various types of terrain for cyclists, though some sections might be challenging. For more cycling routes in the area, you can explore the Gravel biking around Bury St. Edmunds guide.
What are some popular hiking routes near the lakes?
Many lakes are integrated into walking networks. For example, Nowton Park offers various walking routes. You can find numerous hiking trails around the region, including easy, moderate, and difficult options. For detailed routes, refer to the Hiking around Bury St. Edmunds guide or the Easy hikes around Bury St. Edmunds guide.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Bury St. Edmunds?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring brings over 100,000 daffodils to Nowton Park and toad migrations at West Stow Country Park. Summer is ideal for spotting dragonflies and butterflies at Lackford Lakes. Autumn offers mesmerizing bird murmurations at Lackford Lakes, and winter provides opportunities to see vast flocks of overwintering birds. The lakes offer beauty and activities year-round.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the lakes?
Yes, Lackford Lakes Nature Reserve has a visitor centre with a cafe. Nowton Park also features a cafe, making it convenient for visitors to grab refreshments during their visit.
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