Best lakes around Wooburn are primarily characterized by the River Wye, a chalk stream that shapes the local landscape. While large, commercialized lakes are not within Wooburn itself, the area features natural water bodies and historical waterways. The region offers smaller ponds and riverine environments, providing tranquil spots for nature-conscious visitors. Nearby areas expand the options to include man-made lakes and nature reserves.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Highlight • Settlement
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 • Forest
Tip by
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Wooburn.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Dorney Lake is a purpose-built rowing lake and Meetings & Events Venue in England. It is near the village of Dorney, Buckinghamshire, and is around 3 km west of Windsor and Eton, close to the River Thames. The lake is privately owned and financed by Eton College. The 3-mile flat, tarmacked loop around Dorney Lake's rowing course ideal for running. NOTE: Closed to the public from mid-April to September. Public parking onsite What3words: ///entire.vibes.sport
0
0
Lovely lake and doesn’t look like man made at all and would recommend Boots for the path and Park specially if there has been rain over last few days
0
0
On the other side of the lakes is sewage works, giving off horrendous smells
0
0
This is a beautiful nature reserve situated along the banks of the River Thames near Bourne End and Little Marlow. The reserve hosts a number of habitats such as wetlands, meadows, and woodlands, that provide home to a variety of wonderful bird and animal species.
1
0
Shardeloes Lake is a beautiful man-made lake situated between the villages of Old Amersham & Little Missenden in the Chiltern Hills. The lake provides a tranquil setting for a scenic walk, fishing, and bird-watching opportunities.
2
0
Rain or shine IMO just a lovely spot for a Ride Out or Hike. Tall Trees, the Lake and a Cafe if needed.
0
0
Owned by Eton College, Dorney Lake is an epic watersports and outdoor activities venue. It holds fantastic triathlons each year and was the London 2012 Olympics rowing venue. You don't have to get wet to visit though, and in the surroundings are footpaths and cycle paths so you can admire it from the snugness of your dry clothes.
2
0
Good place for a coffee stop. "The Deli" serves excellent coffee and has a good range of snacks. There are tables inside and outside or if they're busy, there are benches on the green opposite.
1
0
Wooburn is primarily characterized by the River Wye, a natural chalk stream. While large commercialized lakes are not within Wooburn itself, the area features natural water bodies like smaller ponds, such as the one in Farm Wood, and riverine environments. Nearby areas expand options to include man-made lakes like Shardeloes Lake and the quaint duck pond at Village Green and Pond, Chalfont St Giles, as well as wetlands at Spade Oak Nature Reserve.
Yes, several spots are great for families. The Village Green and Pond, Chalfont St Giles, with its quaint duck pond and village setting, is very family-friendly. Spade Oak Nature Reserve offers wetlands, meadows, and woodlands perfect for exploring nature. Additionally, Dorney Lake Olympic Rowing Course has grounds with footpaths and cycle paths suitable for family outings.
For scenic walks, Shardeloes Lake offers a tranquil setting. Spade Oak Nature Reserve provides varied habitats along the River Thames for nature walks. The grounds around Dorney Lake Olympic Rowing Course also have footpaths. For more extensive options, you can explore various routes in the area, such as the 'The Bounty – View Across the River Thames loop from Bourne End' or 'Winter Hill – View over the Thames Valley loop from Bourne End'. Find more hiking routes in the Hiking around Wooburn guide.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The towpath from Eton to Dorney Lake offers an easy ride. The grounds of Dorney Lake Olympic Rowing Course also feature cycle paths. For mountain biking, you can find trails like 'Great Beard's Wood Bridleway – Hodgemoor Wood Bike Park loop from Gomm Valley'. Discover more cycling routes in the Cycling around Wooburn guide and mountain biking trails in the MTB Trails around Wooburn guide.
Historically, the River Wye in Wooburn was significant. The Bishop of Lincoln once diverted the River Wye to create a moat and fishpond around Wooburn Palace, indicating the presence of man-made water features with historical purposes. While the palace no longer stands, the river's historical role in shaping the landscape remains.
Beyond the lakes and ponds, the area is rich in natural beauty. The River Wye, a chalk stream, meanders through the valley, offering lush meadows and woodlands. Spade Oak Nature Reserve, situated along the River Thames, features diverse habitats including wetlands, meadows, and woodlands, providing a home for various bird and animal species.
While specific dog-friendly designations for each lake are not always explicit, many natural areas and public footpaths around the lakes and the River Wye are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially around wildlife and livestock. Always check local signage for any restrictions.
The Village Green and Pond, Chalfont St Giles, is an excellent spot, offering a pretty village setting with cafes and pubs. Visitors particularly recommend 'The Deli' for coffee and snacks. Many villages in the wider area will also have local pubs and cafes.
The lakes and natural areas around Wooburn can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for walks and outdoor activities. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can provide tranquil, crisp scenery. Always be mindful of weather conditions and potential path changes, especially after rain.
While not a large lake, the small pond in Farm Wood within Wooburn is mentioned as a tranquil picnic venue, offering a peaceful spot for nature-conscious visitors. Shardeloes Lake also provides a tranquil setting for scenic walks and bird-watching, away from more commercialized areas.
Visitors appreciate the tranquil settings for scenic walks, the opportunities for bird-watching, and the natural beauty of the area. The quaint village atmosphere with duck ponds and local amenities, as seen at Village Green and Pond, Chalfont St Giles, is also highly valued. The diverse habitats at places like Spade Oak Nature Reserve are popular for wildlife observation.
The grounds around the Dorney Lake Olympic Rowing Course are known for having footpaths and cycle paths, including tarmac surfaces, which can be suitable for those seeking accessible routes. It's always advisable to check specific path conditions before visiting.


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