Top 8 Lakes around Elveden
Best lakes around Elveden include the prominent water body within Center Parcs Elveden Forest and various smaller estate lakes. The region, characterized by extensive farmland and a focus on wildlife conservation, offers diverse aquatic environments. These lakes provide opportunities for watersports, wildlife observation, and dedicated angling experiences. The wider Elveden Estate also features popular walking trails and routes around its natural areas.
Best lakes around Elveden
- The most popular lakes is Gravel Track by Livermere Lake, a trail that offers varied terrain for cycling and walking. This area is noted for its forest sections and potential for encountering different landscapes.
- Another must-see spot is Wellingtonia (Giant Redwood) by the Pond, Brandon Country Park, a natural monument within a forest setting. Visitors can observe a specimen tree planted as part of the historic Brandon Hall estate.
- Visitors also love West Stow Country Park Lake, a family-friendly trail within a 125-acre park. This location offers nature trails, heath and woodland walks, and opportunities for bird watching.
- Elveden is known for large activity lakes and secluded fishing lakes. These include water bodies suitable for watersports and those managed as syndicated fisheries for specimen carp.
- The lakes around Elveden are appreciated by the komoot community, with 17 upvotes and 5 photos contributing to the guide.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Gravel Track by Livermere Lake
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Wellingtonia (Giant Redwood) by the Pond, Brandon Country Park
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West Stow Country Park Lake
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Langmere Lake
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West Stow Wood
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Around you will also find Dale Pond – if you're a fan of dragonflies, this is your spot.
There's a 2.5 miles circuit called the Yellow Walk, which starts and ends at the car park.
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Tips from the Community
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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The Sequoia or Giant Redwood would have been planted as one of the specimen trees of the Brandon Hall estate. Edward Bliss made his money selling gun flints during the Napoleonic wars and used it to buy and create Brandon Hall and the surrounding land. Many of the unusual trees planted in what is now Brandon Country Park and the wider Thetford Forest are a legacy of this.
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This wood is ideal if you enjoy peaceful running surrounded by nature and well-defined trails. It's a woodland dominated by mature pines and oaks, but also features recently planted conifers. Around you will also find Dale Pond – if you're a fan of dragonflies, this is your spot. There's a 2.5 miles circuit called the Yellow Walk, which starts and ends at the car park.
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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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Langmere is a lake that performs something of a magic trick. Every year, it’'s water level can fluctuate by several metres. Sometimes you’ll see it — other times, you won’t. The mere rises and falls in harmony with underground water levels, which change during the seasons. You can observe lots of wildlife around the mere, especially birds. Keep a look-out for bird species including coot, curlew, snipe, teal and more.
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West Stow Country Park boasts 125 acres of unspoilt and wildlife-rich countryside. There are nature trails, heath and woodland walks to explore, as well as two bird hides and a bird feeding area. You can also explore nearby Lackford Lakes, a 106-hectare biological Site of Special Scientific Interest and the Anglo Saxon village. For more information, visit: https://www.weststow.org/Country-Park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of activities can I do at the lakes around Elveden?
The lakes offer a variety of activities. The large lake within Center Parcs Elveden Forest is ideal for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding. For a more tranquil experience, the Elveden Estate lakes are primarily used for dedicated carp fishing. Many lakes also provide opportunities for walking, cycling, and wildlife observation.
Are there family-friendly lakes to visit near Elveden?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. West Stow Country Park Lake is a popular choice, offering nature trails, heath, and woodland walks, along with bird watching opportunities. Wellingtonia (Giant Redwood) by the Pond, Brandon Country Park is also family-friendly, set within a forest.
Where can I go for a walk or cycle around the lakes?
You can explore areas like Gravel Track by Livermere Lake, which offers varied terrain for cycling and walking through forest sections. West Stow Country Park Lake also features nature trails suitable for walks.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near the lakes?
Many lakes are rich in wildlife. At Langmere Lake, you can observe various bird species like coot, curlew, snipe, and teal. East Wretham Heath Nature Reserve is home to rare plant and insect species, as well as scarce breeding birds such as woodlark, redstart, and stone curlews.
Are there any notable natural monuments or unique features by the lakes?
Yes, Wellingtonia (Giant Redwood) by the Pond, Brandon Country Park is a significant natural monument. This specimen tree was planted as part of the historic Brandon Hall estate. Additionally, Langmere Lake is unique for its fluctuating water levels, which can change by several meters annually, reflecting underground water levels.
What are the best options for fishing around Elveden?
The Elveden Estate features several smaller lakes primarily dedicated to fishing, particularly for carp. These are often syndicated fisheries, known for offering a peaceful experience and opportunities to catch large specimen carp.
Are there any easy hiking routes near the lakes?
Yes, there are several easy hiking routes in the wider Elveden area. You can find options like 'The Fir Trail loop from High Lodge — Thetford Forest' or 'Madgett's Pit – Woodland Playground loop from Fox'. For more details, explore the Easy hikes around Elveden guide.
Can I find mountain biking trails near the lakes?
Absolutely. The Elveden area offers various mountain biking trails. Popular routes include 'The Beast (Lime Burner Trail) – Helter Skelter Trail loop from Elveden' and 'Pyramid Playground Slide – Small Rock Drop loop from Mayday Farm'. More trails are available in the MTB Trails around Elveden guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Elveden?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions for walking and wildlife spotting. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while spring brings new life and active bird populations. Summer is ideal for watersports at Center Parcs.
Are there any nature reserves associated with the lakes?
Yes, East Wretham Heath Nature Reserve is a significant site near the lakes. It's the oldest Breckland nature reserve, purchased by Norfolk Wildlife Trust, and is crucial for conserving rare plant and insect species, as well as scarce breeding birds.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in the Elveden area?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes, from the active watersports hub at Center Parcs to the secluded fishing spots on the Elveden Estate. The opportunities for walking, cycling, and observing unique wildlife, especially birds, are also highly valued by the komoot community.
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