Lakes around South Bucks offer a variety of natural and man-made water bodies within a region known for its landscapes. This area, part of Buckinghamshire, features diverse aquatic environments. Visitors can find lakes suitable for watersports, tranquil walks, and wildlife observation. The lakes provide opportunities for outdoor activities in a varied terrain.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
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Dorney Lake is a purpose-built rowing lake and Meetings & Events Venue in England. It is near the village of Dorney, Buckinghamshire, and is around 3 km west of Windsor and Eton, close to the River Thames. The lake is privately owned and financed by Eton College. The 3-mile flat, tarmacked loop around Dorney Lake's rowing course ideal for running. NOTE: Closed to the public from mid-April to September. Public parking onsite What3words: ///entire.vibes.sport
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Rain or shine IMO just a lovely spot for a Ride Out or Hike. Tall Trees, the Lake and a Cafe if needed.
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Owned by Eton College, Dorney Lake is an epic watersports and outdoor activities venue. It holds fantastic triathlons each year and was the London 2012 Olympics rowing venue. You don't have to get wet to visit though, and in the surroundings are footpaths and cycle paths so you can admire it from the snugness of your dry clothes.
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Little Britain Lake, called such because of its shoreline looking like the coastline of Britain. The lake was created out of a quarry from the 1930s. Beside it runs the River Colne, with many spots for a cool dip or a spot of fishing.
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For some reason, Komoot always tries to route me down the A40 to the North of this section where there is no cycle path. This segment avoids that and provides a safe diversion from Uxbridge to Denham.
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Managed by Buckinghamshire Council, Black Park covers 618 acres (250 ha). Within the park, there are two designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest and a Local Nature Reserve. The park is home to varied wildlife such as hobbies, nightjars, snakes, and lizards, as well as rare plants. Pinewood Film Studios are situated nearby so the park has featured in many famous productions such as the Goldfinger James Bond film, Star Wars: The Rise of the Skywalker, Batman, Harry Potter, Captain America, and more.
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Visitors frequently enjoy Little Britain Lake and River Colne, known for its unique shoreline resembling the British coastline and fishing spots. Dorney Lake, an Olympic rowing venue, is also very popular for its footpaths and cycle paths. Another favorite is Black Park, a large country park with varied wildlife and a popular lake for walks.
The lakes offer a diverse range of activities. You can enjoy watersports like rowing at Dorney Lake, water skiing and open water swimming at Denham Lake, or open water swimming at Taplow Lake. Many lakes, including Black Park Lake and Shardeloes Lake, are excellent for tranquil walks, cycling, and wildlife observation. Fishing is popular at Black Park Lake, Little Britain Lake, and Farlows Lake.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Black Park is highly recommended for families, offering cycling paths and varied wildlife. Dorney Lake also has footpaths and cycle paths suitable for family outings. Little Britain Lake and Farlows Lake are also listed as family-friendly.
Black Park is a dog-friendly country park where you can enjoy walks with your canine companion. Many of the public footpaths around other lakes in the region are also suitable for dogs, provided they are kept under control.
Absolutely. The region offers numerous hiking and walking opportunities. For example, you can find routes like the 'Burnham Beeches Circular' or 'Cliveden Green Walking Trail' which are part of the wider network of trails. You can explore more hiking routes in the area on the Hiking around South Bucks guide.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Dorney Lake has dedicated cycle paths around its perimeter. Black Park is also excellent for cycling, especially with kids. For more extensive routes, consider the gravel biking trails in the region, such as those found in the Gravel biking around South Bucks guide.
For wildlife observation, Black Park is an excellent choice, known for its varied wildlife including hobbies, nightjars, snakes, and lizards. Farlows Lake and Shardeloes Lake are also rich in birds and fish, providing peaceful settings for nature lovers.
Yes, the region has historical significance. Dorney Lake itself is a notable landmark as the venue for the London 2012 Olympics rowing events. The magnificent Cliveden estate, with its unfenced lakes and extensive grounds, offers stunning views and historical gardens. You can learn more about Cliveden on Wikipedia.
Yes, Denham Lake is primarily known for its water skiing but also offers open water swimming sessions, typically in the mornings. Taplow Lake is another convenient option for open water swimming, especially due to its proximity to Taplow railway station.
Black Park Lake is particularly popular with anglers, offering a serene environment for pleasure fishing with a variety of fish including pike, perch, carp, roach, rudd, bream, and tench. Farlows Lake is also superbly set up for anglers, though permits are required. Little Britain Lake also has spots for fishing.
Yes, the area provides several running opportunities. You can find routes such as 'View of Dorney Lake at Sunset – Dorney Lake loop from Dorney Lake' or 'Jubilee River Cycle Path – View of the Jubilee River loop from Taplow'. More running trails are detailed in the Running Trails around South Bucks guide.
Dorney Lake Olympic Rowing Course is noted as wheelchair accessible, offering paths around the lake. Many country parks, like Black Park, also strive to provide accessible routes, though it's always advisable to check specific conditions before visiting.


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