Top 6 Lakes around Kingston Deverill
Best lakes around Kingston Deverill are found in the wider Wiltshire area, as the village itself is characterized by the upper reaches of the River Wylye. This chalk stream originates near Kingston Deverill and flows through the Deverill Valley, defining the local natural landscape. For those seeking lake environments, several notable options are accessible, offering diverse opportunities for nature appreciation and walking. These include tranquil bodies of water, nature reserves, and lakes integrated into historical estates.
Best lakes around Kingston…
Last updated: August 23, 2026
Shearwater Lake
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Fonthill Lake
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Stourhead House and Gardens
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Stourhead Gardens and Lake
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The Grotto, Stourhead
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The Grotto of Stourhead is one of the most famous areas of the historic landscape gardens of Stourhead. It was built around 1748 and is part of a circular path inspired by ancient mythology and Italian landscapes. The grotto is intentionally designed to be dark and mysterious. Inside, you will find: * a statue of a sleeping nymph (often interpreted as Ariadne), * a statue of a river god, * small pools of water and a natural spring. The highlight is the view: after passing through the dark grotto, the view suddenly opens up to the lake, the Temple of Apollo, and the artfully designed park landscape. This strong contrast between darkness and light was an important design element and was intended to surprise and impress visitors.
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The gardens of Stourhead are among the most famous 18th-century English landscape gardens and, for me, one of the most beautiful I have seen so far. The centerpiece is a large, artificially created lake, around which winding paths, temples, bridges, grottoes, and rare trees extend. The layout was designed so that new picturesque views open up at every turn of the path.
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The gardens of Stourhead are one of the most famous English landscape gardens of the 18th century. The centerpiece is a large artificial lake, around which winding paths, temples, bridges, grottoes, and rare trees extend. The layout was designed so that new picturesque views open up at every turn of the path.
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Lovely view of the lake, especially at sunset.
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Amazing place. I was able to check out the shop and cafe, and have a peak at the garden, whetting my appetite to make it a day's destination some time.
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Had incident again today in the woods at Shearwater ... Welcome cyclists please remember that it’s actually the law they give way to pedestrians & not tell people walking to ‘get out of the way or shout coming through’
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This circular temple was built in honour of Apollo, the sun god. Nestled on a hilltop, it offers clear views over the lake and is a popular venue for civil ceremonies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for walking around Kingston Deverill?
For a pleasant walk, Shearwater Lake offers a super nice traffic-free trail around its perimeter, complete with a cafe. Fonthill Lake allows you to hike along its tranquil west banks, observing impressive birdlife. The extensive gardens of Stourhead House and Gardens also feature beautiful walks around their lake.
Are there family-friendly lakes near Kingston Deverill?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Shearwater Lake, Fonthill Lake, and Stourhead House and Gardens are all highlighted as family-friendly. They offer easy walks and scenic environments suitable for all ages.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes around Kingston Deverill are rich in wildlife, especially birds. Fonthill Lake is known for its impressive displays of birdlife. Further afield, Langford Lakes Nature Reserve is a birdwatching haven, home to around 150 different bird species, including kingfishers, lapwings, ospreys, and marsh harriers.
Are there any historical sites or notable features associated with these lakes?
Absolutely. Fonthill Lake gained cinematic fame as a filming location for river scenes in the movie *Chocolat*. Stourhead House and Gardens is a significant historical estate, featuring a lake, extensive gardens, a Palladian bridge, a Pantheon, and a Temple of Apollo, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical architecture.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Kingston Deverill?
While there's no bad time to visit, the gardens at Stourhead House and Gardens are particularly stunning in autumn when the trees turn crimson and gold. In spring, you can enjoy outstanding snowdrops. Birdlife at Fonthill Lake can be observed at all times of the year.
Are there cafes or places to get refreshments near the lakes?
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. Shearwater Lake has a cafe on one side. Langford Lakes Nature Reserve also features an on-site cafe. At Stourhead House and Gardens, there's a cafe and a pub in the nearby village of Stourton.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Kingston Deverill?
Beyond walking around the lakes, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy hikes and more moderate routes. For cyclists, there are gravel biking routes, such as the 'Shearwater Lake loop from Horningsham'. You can explore more options for easy hikes, general hiking, and gravel biking in the region.
Are there any accessible paths for wheelchairs or strollers around the lakes?
Langford Lakes Nature Reserve, located in the Wylye Valley, is known for its good, level paths, making it a suitable option for visitors with wheelchairs or strollers.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near Kingston Deverill?
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty. The traffic-free trails at Shearwater Lake are highly rated, as are the impressive birdlife displays at Fonthill Lake. The blend of natural landscapes and historical architecture at Stourhead House and Gardens also receives high praise, especially its autumn colors.
Where can I find parking for the lakes?
For Stourhead House and Gardens, there is plenty of parking available close by, particularly near the church. For other lakes, it's advisable to check local signage or specific venue websites for parking information.
Is it possible to walk around the entire perimeter of the lakes?
Yes, Shearwater Lake offers a 'super nice traffic free trail' that circles its perimeter. At Fonthill Lake, you can hike right along the west banks, providing extensive walking opportunities.
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