Top 13 Lakes around Slapton
Best lakes around Slapton include Slapton Ley, the largest natural freshwater lake in South West England. This unique wetland ecosystem is designated as a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Slapton Ley is comprised of two sections, the Lower Ley and the Higher Ley, and is separated from the English Channel by a narrow shingle beach known as Slapton Sands. The area is notable for its biodiversity, including over 230 bird species and a rich varietyβ¦
Last updated: July 26, 2026
Aldbury Village Pond
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Marsworth Reservoir
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Alders Farm Fisheries Lake Path
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Clickmere Pond
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Wilstone Reservoir
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Tips from the Community
A really beautiful pond here within Pitstone Common, with a newly built (in 2010) platform. The pond has shrunk in size over the years, but it's still a lovely place to be, and in the autumn the colours of the leaves on the trees here are totally gorgeous, only adding to the effect of the place.
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Great walks from here that can be short or long. You can also walk to the Pitsone windmill which is the oldest Windmill in the British Isles
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Public bridleway taking you into Into Rushmere Country Park. More info on Rushmere https://www.greensandtrust.org/rushmere-country-park
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Great family friendly rides around the lakes, 3 will signed routes of different distance. Great fun π
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A tiny village with a surprinsigly lot to see. Also a great place for an after ride pint.
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Nice bridleway descent from Ivy/Bragenham Lane to Rushmere Country Park . Mainly firm gravel with some firm sand. Usually passable in all conditions but can be muddy at the Rushmere end. Views of peaceful fishing lake as you pass through. As you reach Rushmere Park you have several options including continuing on the bridleway through the lovely Oak Wood
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This is a very nice gravel path that takes you past the Alders Farm Fisheries Lake and into Rushmore Country Park.
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Tring Reservoirs Nature Reserve comprises four individual reservoirs: Startop's End, Marsworth and Tringford reservoirs are all close together and Wilstone reservoir is a short distance to the west. The reservoirs are home to a variety of wildlife and their reedbeds, wet woodland and open water habitats are a natural stronghold for birds. During colder months, you can find a large number of wintering wildfowl across all four reservoirs, including tufted duck, pochard, teal, gadwall, wigeon and shoveler with occasional goldeneye, goosander and smew if it is very cold. Wilstone Reservoir boasts the rare mudwort plant that can be spotted on the mudflats during autumn months as the waters recede. The site attracts breeding common terns which use rafts the Trust has installed and breeding oystercatchers have been recorded here. Between December and February, Marsworth Reservoir is a great place to see overwintering bitterns, as this site has a fantastic reedbed that retains its water to allow the birds to feed throughout the season. There is a heronry on the bank of Wilstone Reservoir and if you take binoculars you should be able to catch a glimpse of these usually solitary birds in large numbers. If you visit the reservoirs during late spring then you may spot a hobby hunting over the water. The hobby is an African migrant bird that is best seen on warm summer days at the end of May when there is plenty of prey around. You can also occasionally hear the call of the cuckoo especially from the back of the reedbed at Wilstone or Marsworth where you should also be able to hear and see reed warblers. Tring Reservoirs are a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for a number of reasons including their situation on the lower chalk at the foot of the Chilterns escarpment resulting in diverse communities of plants and animals. Additionally, nationally-important numbers of shoveler are present during winter, together with other wildfowl. Large numbers of sedge and reed warblers breed here and Tring Reservoirs are a fantastic place to spot passage waders too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Slapton Ley a unique natural attraction?
Slapton Ley is the largest natural freshwater lake in South West England, designated as a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It's unique for being separated from the English Channel by only a narrow shingle beach, Slapton Sands, and boasts an exceptional diversity of flora and fauna, including over 230 bird species and a rich variety of fungi.
What are some popular lakes and trails to explore near Slapton?
Visitors often enjoy Marsworth Reservoir, which is popular for anglers, dog walkers, boaters, and birdwatchers, offering a relaxing six-mile circular walk. Another favorite is the Path along the Grand Union Canal and Marsworth Reservoir, known for its superb views of colorful canalboats and flowing reeds.
Are there family-friendly walking routes around the lakes?
Yes, many areas are suitable for families. Marsworth Reservoir offers easy walking routes. The Path along the Grand Union Canal and Marsworth Reservoir is also family-friendly with its gravel path and scenic views. Slapton Ley itself has well-marked nature trails suitable for all ages.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Slapton Ley?
Slapton Ley is a haven for wildlife. You can spot over 230 bird species, including resident Cetti's warblers and Eurasian bitterns, especially from the available bird hides. The Ley is also home to 14 species of bats, otters, and dormice. During autumn, Wilstone Reservoir, part of the Tring Reservoirs Nature Reserve, is known for the rare mudwort plant and breeding common terns.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Slapton?
Beyond exploring the lakes, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. There are numerous hiking opportunities, such as the 'Green BridgeβSouth Meadow Path loop from Grove' or the 'View of Tiddenfoot Lake loop from Leighton Buzzard'. For more options, check out the hiking guide around Slapton. Gravel biking is also popular, with routes like 'Beacon Hill and the Chilterns loop from Tring' available in the gravel biking guide around Slapton.
What are the walking conditions like around Slapton Ley?
Slapton Ley offers well-marked walking trails, including easy circular walks. The terrain is generally flat, especially along the shingle ridge and around the Ley, making it accessible for many. Some routes provide panoramic views of Slapton Sands and Start Bay. The South West Coast Path also runs alongside the shingle ridge.
Are there any historical landmarks near Slapton Ley?
Yes, the area holds significant historical importance, particularly related to World War II and Operation Tiger. A Sherman Tank memorial is located near Slapton Ley, commemorating the D-Day training exercises that took place here.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Slapton?
Visitors appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and the abundance of nature. Many enjoy the easy, scenic walks, especially around Marsworth Reservoir, which is described as a relaxing experience. The superb views along the Grand Union Canal and Marsworth Reservoir path, featuring colorful canalboats and reeds, are also highly praised.
Is there a good spot for birdwatching near Slapton?
Slapton Ley is an excellent spot for birdwatching, with several bird hides available for observation. The Tring Reservoirs Nature Reserve, which includes Wilstone Reservoir, is a natural stronghold for birds, especially during colder months when large numbers of wintering wildfowl can be seen. Marsworth Reservoir is also a great place to see overwintering bitterns.
Where can I find a peaceful fishing lake near Slapton?
The Alders Farm Fisheries Lake Path passes a peaceful fishing lake. This gravel path offers views of the lake as it leads into Rushmere Country Park, providing a serene setting for those interested in fishing or a quiet stroll.
What is the best time of year to visit Slapton Ley?
Slapton Ley offers beauty year-round, but specific seasons highlight different aspects. Spring and summer are excellent for birdwatching and enjoying the diverse flora. Autumn brings gorgeous colors to the trees around places like Clickmere Pond, while winter is ideal for spotting large numbers of overwintering wildfowl at the Tring Reservoirs.
Are there any unique plant species to look out for around Slapton Ley?
Yes, the shingle ridge separating Slapton Ley from the sea is notable for its specialized coastal vegetation, including plants like Yellow Horned-poppy and Viper's Bugloss. It is also the only place in the UK where the rare strapwort (Corrigiola litoralis) can be found naturally. Additionally, Wilstone Reservoir boasts the rare mudwort plant, visible on mudflats during autumn.
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