Best lakes around Houghton On The Hill are primarily found in the broader Leicestershire area, particularly within Watermead Country Park. This region is characterized by its elevated position, offering views of the surrounding countryside. While Houghton On The Hill itself is a village known for its historical roots, the nearby lakes provide natural settings for various outdoor activities. The area features a mix of natural and managed lake environments.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
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A good way to cycle to Foxton Locks to see the canal engineering.
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John Merrick's Lake is one of numerous lakes within the Reedbed Nature Reserve. The reserve is a great place for birdwatching, with wildlife all around you.
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John Merrick's Lake is on the "Red Route", a loop of hard surfaced paths around the northernmost lake in Watermead Country Park. The red route paths are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. They're also shared with cyclists. John Merricks, was a silver Olympic medallist who competed in sailing events on a nearby lake as a schoolboy.
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John Merrick's Lake is on the "Red Route", a loop of hard surfaced paths around the northernmost lake in Watermead Country Park. John Merricks, was a silver Olympic medallist who competed in sailing events on a nearby lake as a schoolboy.
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Foxton to Saddington Reservoir is a quite country road and part of the NCN National Route 6. A joy to cycle along.
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Leicester Windsurfing & SUP club show how to make a storage container look beautiful! Located at King's Lear lake.
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Good views and cricket pitch surrounded by cows
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The lakes around Houghton On The Hill are primarily located within the broader Leicestershire area, particularly Watermead Country Park. They offer a mix of natural and managed environments, providing diverse settings for outdoor activities and relaxation. The region itself is known for its elevated position, offering views of the surrounding countryside.
Visitors frequently enjoy John Merrick's Lake, known for its connection to Olympic sailor John Merricks and its location on the accessible 'Red Route' in Watermead Country Park. Rolleston Lake is also highly regarded for its picturesque setting and peaceful atmosphere.
The area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, running, and mountain biking. For instance, there are gravel biking routes like the 'Gartree Road Crossroads – Rolleston Lake loop' and running trails such as the 'Running loop from Houghton on the Hill'. You can explore more options in the Gravel biking around Houghton On The Hill, Running Trails around Houghton On The Hill, and MTB Trails around Houghton On The Hill guides.
Yes, John Merrick's Lake is part of the 'Red Route', a loop of hard-surfaced paths within Watermead Country Park, suitable for walking and cycling. Rolleston Lake features a great gravel bridleway, offering a scenic path. Additionally, the Path Beside the Pond provides a good ride along a canal track, starting from the new Everrads Brewery.
Yes, King Lear Lake in Watermead Country Park is home to the Leicester Windsurfing & SUP Club, making it an ideal spot for windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding enthusiasts.
Many of the lakes are family-friendly. For example, John Merrick's Lake and Rolleston Lake are noted as suitable for families. Watermead Country Park, where several lakes are located, generally offers a safe and enjoyable environment for all ages.
Yes, the 'Red Route' around John Merrick's Lake in Watermead Country Park features hard-surfaced paths that are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. These paths are also shared with cyclists.
The lakes are set within natural environments, offering opportunities for birdwatching, especially around the Reedbed Nature Reserve near John Merrick's Lake. You'll find diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes, with many spots offering peaceful views and natural beauty, such as Rolleston Lake.
While specific seasonal data isn't provided, the lakes, particularly those within Watermead Country Park, are generally enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for watersports and walks, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Winter walks can also be peaceful, though some paths might be muddier.
While direct on-site establishments are not explicitly detailed for every lake, the Path Beside the Pond trail starts from the new Everrads Brewery, offering a potential refreshment stop. The broader area around Houghton On The Hill and Leicestershire will have various pubs and cafes within a short driving distance.
Visitors appreciate the peaceful and picturesque settings, such as the tranquil atmosphere at Rolleston Lake. The accessible paths around John Merrick's Lake are popular for walks and cycling, and the scenic canal track near the Path Beside the Pond is also highly rated. The komoot community has shared over 10 photos and given more than 30 upvotes, highlighting the area's appeal.


Still not found your perfect lake around Houghton On The Hill? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.