Top 4 Lakes around Church Knowle
Best lakes around Church Knowle, a village in Dorset, England, are characterized by their diverse natural and man-made water bodies. The area is situated near the Jurassic Coast, offering a landscape that combines heathland, woodland, and coastal features. This region provides opportunities for exploring unique aquatic environments and their surrounding natural reserves. The local geology contributes to distinctive water features, making it a notable destination for outdoor exploration.
Best lakes around Church Knowle
- The most popular lakes is The Blue…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Fort on the Lake Folly
Highlight • Historical Site
Furthermore, on this shore, you can observe the fort that was also constructed shortly thereafter.
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Shipstall Beach
Highlight • Beach
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Shell Bay Beach
Highlight • Beach
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The Blue Pool
Highlight • Lake
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Arne Bird Hide – View of Poole Harbour
Highlight • Viewpoint
rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/arne
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Tips from the Community
Dogs permitted off lead on beach and dunes between 1st October and 31st March. Must be on lead between April and September.
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The "Fort on the Lake" in East Lulworth is a folly, a building built for decorative effect rather than a practical purpose, located on the edge of a lake created for model boat testing. The lake itself was built by Joseph Weld in the 1830s and the fort was built in 1851. The fort was originally intended to house a model 12-gun brig of war, but it was sadly dismantled and no longer exists. The folly remains as a decorative feature on the wild lake.
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Beautiful spot, on a sunny day could almost think you are in the Caribbean
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Did you know that this lake was built in 1837 for model-boat testing for the Admiralty? Furthermore, on this shore, you can observe the fort that was also constructed shortly thereafter.
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Has a number of trails and a play park with a fairies door tail for the younger ones. the tea rooms dose breakfast before 10 am
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There’s even several bike lock installations at the end of the bridleway, so you can leave you’re bike safely rather than take it onto the sandy beach.
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Nice quiet little beach, perfect for a picnic. RSPB ask you to use cycle racks so as not to disturb wildlife or you can just carry your bike the last 25m or so!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the lakes around Church Knowle unique?
The area around Church Knowle features a mix of natural and man-made water bodies, including former clay pits, historical lakes, and expansive natural harbours. A notable example is The Blue Pool, a former clay pit famous for its water that mysteriously changes colour due to microscopic clay particles.
Are there any historical sites related to lakes in the area?
Yes, you can visit Fort on the Lake Folly. This historical site features a lake built in the 1830s for model boat testing, with the fort itself constructed in 1851 as a decorative folly.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see near the lakes?
Beyond the lakes themselves, you'll find diverse landscapes including heathland, woodland, and coastal features. The Blue Pool is set within 25 acres of protected heathland and woodland, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). You can also experience expansive views of Europe's largest natural harbour at View of Poole Harbour, known for its nature conservation and diverse birdlife.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes?
Absolutely. The Blue Pool is very family-friendly, offering serene woodland walks, a Gnome & Fairy Trail, and a play area for children. It also hosts various seasonal events throughout the year.
Are the lake trails accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs?
Yes, The Blue Pool offers an accessible red route suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, and many of its main paths are wheelchair accessible. They even offer discounts for wheelchair users.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes around Church Knowle?
Yes, The Blue Pool is dog-friendly, welcoming dogs on leads. Additionally, Shell Bay Beach permits dogs off-lead between October 1st and March 31st, and on-lead from April to September.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including a moderate 8.9 km route like the 'Purbeck Way near Corfe Castle – View of Corfe Castle loop from Church Knowle'. For running, explore routes such as the 'Old Harry Rocks loop from Corfe Castle'. Cyclists can enjoy road cycling routes like the 'View of Durdle Door – Grange Hill Climb loop from Furzebrook'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking, running, and road cycling guides for Church Knowle.
Are there cafes or tearooms near the lakes?
Yes, The Blue Pool features charming Art Deco Tearooms that offer locally sourced food, a gift shop, and a plant centre. They even serve breakfast before 10 am.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Church Knowle?
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique natural beauty, such as the colour-changing water at The Blue Pool, and the serene walking opportunities. The historical significance of sites like Fort on the Lake Folly and the expansive views from View of Poole Harbour are also highly rated.
Is there a beach near the lakes that is good for picnics?
Yes, Shipstall Beach is described as a nice, quiet little beach, perfect for a picnic. It's also noted for having bike lock installations, allowing you to secure your bike before heading onto the sand.
How can I check the opening hours or plan a visit to The Blue Pool?
For the most current information on opening hours, events, and to plan your visit to The Blue Pool, it's best to check their official website directly. You can find more details on Visit Dorset.
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