Top 6 Lakes around Folksworth and Washingley

The area offers a diverse range of water bodies, including recreational lakes, nature reserves, and dedicated rowing lakes. You can also find specialized fishing lakes known for specimen carp and catfish.

Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Ferry Meadows Visitor Centre, located within Ferry Meadows, is a vast place offering walking, cycling, and picnicking. Gunwade Lake, also part of Nene Park, provides kayak and canoe hire, and open water swimming, making it a great spot for active families.

You'll find excellent options for walking and cycling. The Peterborough Rowing Lake Path offers a 1 km shared car-free tarmacked footpath, perfect for a leisurely stroll or ride. Additionally, the River Nene Riverside Path provides a traffic-free section for cycling out of Peterborough. For more detailed routes, you can explore the easy hikes and road cycling routes guides for the area.

Yes, the nearby Folly Lakes, just outside Peterborough, are a significant fishing destination. They comprise the Main Lake, known for specimen carp up to 50 lbs, and the Small Lake, which holds powerful catfish over 60 lbs and carp up to 38 lbs. These lakes are expertly managed for a rewarding angling experience.

The Folly Lakes offer excellent facilities for anglers, including 14 well-spaced swims on the Main Lake and 9 on the Small Lake. There's a large safe parking area, toilets, and a cabin. The complex is secure with a security fence and locked gates, and transport to swims is provided. Exclusive block bookings are also available.

Holme Fen National Nature Reserve is a stunning natural area, great for birdwatchers and those looking to immerse themselves in nature. It's notable for being the lowest point in the UK, 3m below sea level, with iron posts marking the original ground level from 1850, now standing 4m above the modern ground due to shrinking peat.

Visitors appreciate the diverse opportunities for outdoor activities, from relaxing picnics and scenic walks to active pursuits like cycling, kayaking, and open water swimming. The peaceful and picturesque settings, especially at places like Ferry Meadows and the secluded Folly Lakes, are frequently highlighted as major draws.

Yes, specific rules apply at the Folly Lakes. Maggots are prohibited, and nut and seed baits must be properly pre-soaked and cooked. It's advisable to check all current rules before your visit to ensure compliance.

Absolutely. There are several easy hiking trails available. For example, the 'Ferry Meadows & the River Nene loop from Alwalton' and the 'Holme Fen National Nature Reserve loop' are both rated as easy. You can find more options in the easy hikes guide for the area.

For those seeking a moderate challenge, routes like the 'Denton Church Ruins – Washingley Hall Farm loop from Stilton' (10.89 km) or the 'Denton Church Ruins – Parish Church of St. Nicholas loop from Stilton' (8.61 km) offer longer distances. These are detailed in the hiking guide for Folksworth and Washingley.

Yes, at Ferry Meadows Visitor Centre, there is a popular cafe, The Lakeside Kitchen & Bar, which often has plenty of outdoor seating. This is a convenient spot for refreshments while enjoying the natural surroundings.