Top 8 Lakes around Christchurch
Best lakes around Christchurch offer a variety of natural and recreational experiences. The region features diverse landscapes, from coastal lagoons to man-made lakes designed for activity. These areas are known for their ecological significance, supporting various bird species and providing opportunities for outdoor pursuits. The lakes contribute to the area's natural appeal, drawing visitors seeking both tranquility and recreation.
Best lakes around Christchurch
- The most popular lakes is Whitten Pond, an other natural feature located in open heathland south of Burley. This spot is popular in summer for relaxation, picnics, and observing wildlife like ponies and birds.
- Another must-see spot is Long Lake, a family friendly lake. This scenic watering hole near Burley is frequented by cows, wild ponies, and various wildlife species.
- Visitors also love Longham Lakes, an other natural feature consisting of a double lake separated by a narrow causeway. It is managed as a wildlife reserve and fishing lake, with a path suitable for easy walks.
- Christchurch is known for its natural ponds, wildlife reserves, and fishing lakes. The variety of lakes provides diverse settings for outdoor activities and wildlife observation.
- The lakes around Christchurch are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 120 upvotes and over 40 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Whitten Pond
Highlight • Natural
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Mudeford Sandspit Lagoon and Holloway's Dock
Highlight • Natural Monument
Access by foot, bike or land train from Hengistbury Head car park. Access by passenger ferry from Mudeford Quay and Christchurch Quay.
There are 5 public toilet blocks, one with hot showers. Outside cold showers are also provided.
Horses are not permitted on the seashore between the Saturday preceding Easter Monday and the 30th September (both dates inclusive) in any year between 10am and 9pm.
Due to being so close to Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve, BBQs are not allowed at Mudeford Sandbank Beach. Open fires, fire pits and fire bowls are not permitted at any time on the beach, promenade, cliffs, cliff tops or woodland areas. The beach is surrounded by unique cliff habitats which are Sites of Special Scientific Interest and provide a home to many of the UK’s rare species of reptiles, birds and insects. Their dry nature means they are vulnerable and sparks from open fires can cause huge damage.
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Long Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Longham Lakes
Highlight • Natural
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Quarry Pond
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
As others have said, the area around this pond is crucially important for endangered birds from April to August and should be avoided during these months to give the wildlife the time and space it needs to safely raise their babies.
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Walked to this pond early April. Ground comparatively dry due to very low rainfall in March. No signage seen for nesting birds.
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A unique and beautiful sand spit which adjoins the ancient headland of Hengistbury Head and forms a natural barrier between Christchurch Harbour and the open sea. The area is designated a Site of Nature Conservation Interest. Access by foot, bike or land train from Hengistbury Head car park. Access by passenger ferry from Mudeford Quay and Christchurch Quay. There are 5 public toilet blocks, one with hot showers. Outside cold showers are also provided. Horses are not permitted on the seashore between the Saturday preceding Easter Monday and the 30th September (both dates inclusive) in any year between 10am and 9pm. Due to being so close to Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve, BBQs are not allowed at Mudeford Sandbank Beach. Open fires, fire pits and fire bowls are not permitted at any time on the beach, promenade, cliffs, cliff tops or woodland areas. The beach is surrounded by unique cliff habitats which are Sites of Special Scientific Interest and provide a home to many of the UK’s rare species of reptiles, birds and insects. Their dry nature means they are vulnerable and sparks from open fires can cause huge damage.
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A wonderful place to have a picnic or read a book in the summer. Please keep in mind that curious horses may come and take a look
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Its very, very beautiful especially on a crisp cold day. The ground and small streams around it are very waterlogged after bad weather in winter though - it can become impassable to walk the whole way around the pond so can interrupt your hike if your loop passes through here.
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The way to the pont is closed because of nesting birds.
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Longham Lakes are a double lake separated by a narrow causeway. It's managed as a wildlife reserve and fishing lakes. There is a nice path around the area, perfect for an easy walk.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular lakes for relaxation and wildlife observation around Christchurch?
For relaxation and wildlife observation, Whitten Pond is a popular spot in open heathland south of Burley, known for ponies and birds. Long Lake, also near Burley, is frequented by cows, wild ponies, and various wildlife. Longham Lakes are managed as a wildlife reserve and offer easy walking paths.
Are there any family-friendly lake areas in the region?
Yes, Long Lake is specifically noted as a family-friendly lake. Additionally, Longham Lakes, with its easy walking path and wildlife, is also suitable for families.
Where can I go fishing near Christchurch?
Fishing enthusiasts can visit Hightown Lake near Ringwood, which is exclusively for fishing and known for carp, bream, roach, and tench. Longham Lakes also offer fishing opportunities.
What natural features can I explore around the lakes?
The region offers diverse natural features. Whitten Pond is set within open heathland. The Mudeford Sandspit Lagoon and Holloway's Dock is a unique sand spit forming a natural barrier between Christchurch Harbour and the open sea, designated a Site of Nature Conservation Interest.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, you can find various outdoor activities. For cycling, explore routes like 'A loop of Poole Harbour, Studland & Sandbanks' or 'Bransgore, Burley & New Milton loop' from Christchurch. Running trails include 'Sunrise at Bournemouth Beach' or 'Coffee Break loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Road Cycling Routes around Christchurch, Cycling around Christchurch, and Running Trails around Christchurch guides.
Are there any restrictions or special considerations when visiting the lakes?
Yes, for Whitten Pond, it's advised not to walk in the area around the pond during ground nesting bird season (February to July). At Mudeford Sandspit Lagoon, horses are not permitted on the seashore between the Saturday preceding Easter Monday and September 30th (10 am to 9 pm), and BBQs or open fires are strictly prohibited due to the nearby nature reserve.
How can I access Mudeford Sandspit Lagoon?
The Mudeford Sandspit Lagoon and Holloway's Dock can be accessed by foot, bike, or land train from Hengistbury Head car park. You can also take a passenger ferry from Mudeford Quay and Christchurch Quay.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Christchurch?
Visitors particularly enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, the opportunities for relaxation and picnics, and the chance to observe local wildlife such as ponies and various bird species. The easy walking paths and scenic views are also highly appreciated.
Are there any lakes suitable for easy walks?
Yes, Longham Lakes feature a nice path around the area, perfect for an easy walk. Whitten Pond also offers pleasant walking opportunities in its heathland setting.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
Around lakes like Whitten Pond and Long Lake, you can often spot herds of ponies, cows, and a variety of bird species. The Mudeford Sandspit Lagoon area is a Site of Nature Conservation Interest, home to many of the UK’s rare species of reptiles, birds, and insects.
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