Best lakes around Kingston On Soar are situated within the broader Nottinghamshire area, characterized by the River Soar and its surrounding natural landscapes. This region offers a variety of water bodies, from expansive nature reserves to landscaped park lakes. Visitors can explore diverse environments, including river paths, former gravel pits transformed into wildlife habitats, and university parklands. The area provides opportunities for nature walks and observing local wildlife.
Last updated: June 1, 2026
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A lovely place for a gentle cycle or stroll. It's a popular spot!
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Djanogly Gallery in the Lakeside Arts Centre
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The Trent Valley Way is a 108 mile (174 km) long distance path following the course of the river. This section follows one of the banks through the Attenborough Nature Reserve alongside East Lake.
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St Chad’s water was created in the 1970’s during the excavation of the underlying gravel deposits by Haveringham Gravels. As quarrying proceeded, water flooded the lake through the subterranean water table and once the site was abandoned, the lake and its environs were sold to Draycott and Church Wilne Parish Council for £1.00. St Chads Water and its surrounding environments are an important local resource for informal countryside recreation such as fishing, walking and bird watching. The site is approx. 23 acres and consists of the Lake with a circular walking path around it, woodland edges, a wildflower meadow area and in 2023 we have opened up a new area for use as an outdoor classroom.
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Highfields Park was part of an estate built and landscaped in the late 18th and early 19th century. In 1920 Sir J Boot bought the estate and used it as the site of the East Midlands University (now Nottingham University). Highfileds House became part of the university and is currently used as a staff annexe. The landscape was re-modelled to suit the setting, with the joining of the fishing pond and small boating lake to become the larger lake we see today. The public can walk around Highfields Park. The circuit of the lake is a nice, gentle walk within the city.
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Ruddington Fields is the Great Central (Heritage) Railway terminus in Rushcliffe Country Park, right alongside the lake.
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Visitors frequently enjoy Attenborough Nature Reserve, known for its numerous ponds and bird-watching opportunities. Another popular spot is Highfields Lake, University Park, which offers a gentle circuit walk and a lakeside cafe. Additionally, St Chad's Water Nature Reserve provides a circular walking path, woodland edges, and a wildflower meadow.
Yes, several areas are suitable for families. Attenborough Nature Reserve features easy, tranquil river paths perfect for walking. Highfields Lake, University Park, offers a gentle circuit around the lake, and St Chad's Water Nature Reserve has a circular path and an outdoor classroom area, making them great for family outings.
The lakes around Kingston On Soar, particularly Attenborough Nature Reserve, are renowned for bird-watching. The area's diverse environments, including former gravel pits and river paths, attract various bird species. St Chad's Water also supports local wildlife with its woodland edges and wildflower meadow.
Yes, many of the lake areas offer easy walks. The paths at Attenborough Nature Reserve are described as easy and tranquil. The circuit around Highfields Lake, University Park, is also a gentle walk. For more options, you can explore easy hikes around Kingston On Soar, which include routes like the St. Andrew's Church loop from Kegworth.
Beyond walking, the region offers various cycling opportunities. You can find gravel biking routes, such as the Beeston Lock – Attenborough Nature Reserve loop, and road cycling routes like The Star, West Leake – Love & Piste Coffee Shop loop. Some areas, like Highfields Lake, also offer rowing boat rentals during spring and summer.
While specific parking details for every location are not provided, popular sites like Attenborough Nature Reserve typically have visitor parking facilities. It's advisable to check the specific location's website for detailed parking information before your visit.
Yes, Highfields Lake, University Park, features a lakeside cafe, perfect for a coffee with a view. For other locations, you may find refreshments within nearby villages or towns.
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Weekends can be busy, especially at popular spots like Attenborough Nature Reserve, so visiting during mornings or late afternoons might offer a more tranquil experience. The spring and summer months are ideal for activities like rowing at Highfields Lake.
Policies on dogs vary by location. While many outdoor areas are dog-friendly, nature reserves often have specific rules, such as keeping dogs on leads to protect wildlife. It's best to check the specific guidelines for each lake or nature reserve you plan to visit.
Highfields Lake, University Park, is set within Highfields Park, which was part of an estate built and landscaped in the late 18th and early 19th century. Highfields House, now part of the university, adds to the historical context of the area.
Yes, you can find an ornamental waterfall at the western end of the Highfields Park lake, known as Highfields Park Waterfall. It's a scenic spot with stepping stones.
The Trent Valley Way is a long-distance path following the course of the River Trent. A section of this path runs through Attenborough Nature Reserve, specifically alongside East Lake, offering trails through the reserve.


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