Top 5 Lakes around Witham St. Hughs
Best lakes around Witham St. Hughs offer diverse natural landscapes for outdoor activities. The area features several lakes, many of which are former gravel pits that have been reclaimed by nature, creating habitats for wildlife. Notable destinations include the extensive Whisby Nature Park and Hartsholme Park, providing various walking routes around their lake systems. These locations offer opportunities for nature observation and family-friendly exploration.
Best lakes around Witham St. Hughs
- The most popular lakes is Hartsholme Park, a forest…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Coot Lake, Whisby Nature Park
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Hartsholme Park
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Thorpe Lake Beach
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Swanholme Lakes
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The Natural World Centre, Whisby Nature Park
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Tips from the Community
great for some sheltered winter woodland and trail riding as the place is empty in the week in the duller colder months. summer is a no go on the bike as it gets very busy with lots of young ones around
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The park can be busy, if it is use the playing field car park on the opposite side of Skellingthorpe Road
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The site comprises Victorian landscaped gardens, a large reservoir, woodlands and grasslands. Many features, both natural and built, survive from the original landscaping of the 1860s.
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Swanholme Lakes Local Nature Reserve was formed from a series of flooded sand and gravel pits. After quarrying finished in the 1960s vegetation was able to colonise and this has resulted in a mosaic of different habitat types in an area covering 63 hectares.
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The scrub area around Coot Lake provides cover and breeding areas for a number of different species of bird including the nightingale. As a result of this dogs are not allowed on this walk between April and July inclusive (except assistance dogs).
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A lovely viewpoint overlooking Thorpe Lake at Whisby Nature Reserve. If you need a breather, there's a bench here to sit on and admire the view while undertaking a quick recovery!
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Whisby Nature Park is a beautiful landscape, full of wildlife, with plenty of walks and trails to enjoy. The park was created by quarrying for sand and gravel, but nature has reclaimed the pits and bare sand, creating habitats for many species.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes around Witham St. Hughs?
Visitors frequently enjoy Hartsholme Park, known for its Victorian landscaped gardens and large reservoir. Other popular spots include Coot Lake and Thorpe Lake Beach, both within Whisby Nature Park, offering significant wildlife habitats and scenic viewpoints.
Are there family-friendly activities at the lakes near Witham St. Hughs?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly activities. Hartsholme Park and Whisby Nature Park (including Coot Lake and Thorpe Lake Beach) are noted as family-friendly. Whisby Nature Park also features a playground and a Life Trail at The Natural World Centre, which has a café and shop.
What kind of walking and hiking trails can I find around the lakes?
You'll find a variety of walking and hiking trails. Whisby Nature Park, for instance, offers easy loops like the Willow Lake – Coot Lake loop (5.15 km) and the Thorpe Lake Beach loop (2.99 km). For more options, explore the 'Easy hikes around Witham St. Hughs' guide at komoot.com/guide/3640306.
Can I bring my dog to the lake walks?
Dog policies vary by location. At Whisby Nature Park, dogs are generally welcome, but they are not allowed on the walk around Coot Lake between April and July inclusive (except assistance dogs) due to bird breeding season. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
Are there any lakes suitable for watersports like kayaking or paddleboarding?
Yes, Thurlby Lake (also known as Thurlby Gravel Pit), located on Norton Lane, is home to the Lakeside Paddlesports Club. They offer canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding with hire kit and coaching available. Regular open sessions are held on Sundays, and taster sessions from April to October.
Is swimming allowed in the lakes around Witham St. Hughs?
Generally, swimming is not permitted in the local lakes. For example, at Thurlby Lake, swimming is explicitly not allowed to ensure safety for watersports participants. Always observe local regulations and signage regarding water activities.
What natural features or wildlife can I expect to see?
Many lakes, particularly those within Whisby Nature Park, are former gravel pits reclaimed by nature, creating rich habitats. Coot Lake is known for its scrub areas providing cover and breeding grounds for various bird species, including nightingales. Swanholme Lakes also offers a mosaic of different habitat types.
Are there facilities like cafes or toilets near the lakes?
Yes, The Natural World Centre at Whisby Nature Park provides a café, shop, and toilets. Hartsholme Park also has facilities available for visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes?
The lakes offer different experiences throughout the year. While summer is popular, some areas like Hartsholme Park can get very busy. Winter can be a good time for sheltered woodland and trail riding, as it's often quieter. Birdwatching is particularly good during breeding season, though some access restrictions may apply.
Are there opportunities for fishing at the lakes?
Thurlby Lake is a popular spot for pike anglers, with pike reportedly reaching up to 20 lbs. Fishing is generally limited to the bank furthest from the access point and requires an association key, being for members only. It operates year-round, but night fishing is not permitted.
What historical elements can be found around the lakes?
Hartsholme Park is notable for its Victorian landscaped gardens, with many natural and built features surviving from its original landscaping in the 1860s, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical interest.
How can I get to Whisby Nature Park, and is there parking?
Whisby Nature Park is accessible, and parking is available. If the main park car park is busy, an alternative playing field car park is located on the opposite side of Skellingthorpe Road, particularly useful when visiting Hartsholme Park which is nearby.
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