Best lakes around English Bicknor are primarily found within the wider Wye Valley AONB, as the village itself is situated on high ground overlooking the River Wye. While English Bicknor does not feature prominent lakes directly, the surrounding area offers several notable water bodies, often within forest settings. The River Wye, a significant natural feature, defines much of the northern boundary of the parish. This region is recognized for its picturesque landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
This place is definitely worth a visit. It is a beautiful area with seating available and a refreshments van on-site.
0
0
The final mile. You can push hard as its downhill, to get that PB. The last sign (&cow bell ringer) says 200 metres to go. 50m up & a right hand curve, just empty the tank as it's shorter than it appears. Great course, volunteer's, café, setting. Unsure if raining?
0
0
Nice meeting hub while out exploring FOD plenty of picnic benches, cafe and a great walking loop of the pond, both lower and upper sections.
0
0
Nice meeting hub while out exploring FOD plenty of picnic benches, cafe and a great walking loop of the pond, both lower and upper sections.
1
0
Nice steady firetrack climb alongside Mallards Pike. Plenty of single track trails from the main track if you fancy more of a challenge either up or downhill.
1
0
Beautiful route in the Forest of Dean. What is very exciting is the number of children and young people who, no matter what day of the week, spend time in the free trail park after school. Even parking is free. And there is good food there too. Simply different!
1
0
Great place to stop take a break from biking. Benches for snacks and a great snack shop during summer season.
0
0
While English Bicknor itself is on high ground overlooking the River Wye, the surrounding Forest of Dean and Wye Valley AONB feature several popular water bodies. These include Cannop Ponds, known for its peaceful atmosphere and bird life, and Mallards Pike Lake, which offers both gentle and challenging trails.
Yes, several spots are ideal for families. Cannop Ponds and View of Cannop Ponds are both family-friendly lakes within a forest setting, offering peaceful surroundings and abundant bird life. Soudley Ponds also provides surfaced paths suitable for families, with a cafe nearby.
The water bodies in the area are important habitats for wildlife. At View of Cannop Ponds, you can often spot Mandarin ducks and mute swans. The tranquil environment of Cannop Ponds is also known for its diverse bird life.
The area offers a range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, and mountain biking. For example, near View of Cannop Ponds, there are hiking and cycling trails. Mallards Pike Lake provides opportunities for both challenging single-track trails and more gentle firetrack climbs. You can find various routes for gravel biking and MTB trails around English Bicknor, including those that pass by these lakes. Explore more options in the Gravel biking around English Bicknor and MTB Trails around English Bicknor guides.
Yes, there are easy walking options. Cannop Ponds offers accessible paths for walking, and the pondside paths at Soudley Ponds are surfaced and easy to navigate. For more easy hikes, check out the Easy hikes around English Bicknor guide.
The Wye Valley AONB, where these lakes are located, is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for outdoor activities, while autumn brings stunning foliage. Even in winter, the area can be picturesque, though some paths might be muddy.
Yes, the region is known for its scenic views. English Bicknor itself is situated on high ground, offering views across the Wye Valley. Specific highlights like View of Cannop Ponds provide excellent vantage points. At Soudley Ponds, climbing the ridgeline above offers glorious views across the forest.
The River Wye is a major natural feature, forming a significant part of English Bicknor's northern boundary. It's known for its picturesque landscapes and rich history, once serving as a vital transport link. The Wye Valley is recognized as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offering extensive walking paths and contributing significantly to the area's appeal.
Yes, some locations offer facilities. View of Cannop Ponds has car parking and picnic areas. Cannop Ponds also has free parking and sometimes an ice cream van. Near Soudley Ponds, there is a cafe overlooking the mill pond.
Visitors frequently praise the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, the abundance of bird life, and the beautiful forest settings. Many appreciate the opportunities for walking and cycling, as well as the picnic spots available. The area is seen as a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
Yes, if you're looking for a challenge, Mallards Pike Lake offers challenging single-track trails in addition to more gentle firetrack climbs. The wider Forest of Dean area also provides more demanding routes for hiking and mountain biking.


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