Lakes around Wycombe are situated in a region characterized by the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the River Thames. This area offers a mix of natural landscapes, including woodlands, meadows, and riverbanks. Historically, the region has connections to ancient settlements and traditional industries. Visitors can explore diverse natural features and historical sites.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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Popular around Wycombe
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Stunning little pond on Penn Common with a charming pub nearby. A great place to stop for a break, or just to enjoy the view as you ride past. Especially beautiful as the sun is going down.
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On the other side of the lakes is sewage works, giving off horrendous smells
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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.
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The Lyde, a tributary of the River Thames, rises here and the garden is planted with primulas, astilbes, gunnera and hostas. Originally three watercress beds, surrounded by large and beautiful wych elms, it has — as a result of elm disease — become a wilderness. The garden is open at the owners’ discretion from 9am – 4pm daily. Dogs are not permitted. See: carington.co.uk/gardens/lyde-garden
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On an island in the lake, the Music Temple is an elegant, Doric temple with a semi-circular end. Dating from the 1770s it was used as a theatre and the remains of a stage survive inside it. It is still sometimes used for musical entertainments in the summer.
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Archaeological Surveys undertaken in Park Wood have revealed a fascinating past for this quiet area of deciduous woodland. Lynchets and banks within the woods give evidence of ancient field systems which may date back to the late Iron Age/early Roman period (or they may be medieval). In the beech woodland opposite the pond is evidence of a late thirteenth/early fourteenth homestead in the woodlands and in Tudor times (1485 – 1603) the woodland was a deer park. Much of Park Wood was converted to beech woodland from the late 18th until the early 20th century to cater for the High Wycombe furniture industry. Associated features include sawpits, tracks and charcoal burning platforms. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chilterns-countryside/trails/bradenham-beech-woods-and-bunkers-trail
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Visitors often enjoy Penn Common Pond, known for its charming pub nearby and beautiful sunset views. Another popular spot is Spade Oak Nature Reserve, which offers a rich variety of habitats for wildlife observation.
Yes, Pond in Park Wood is steeped in history. Archaeological surveys have revealed ancient field systems, possibly dating back to the late Iron Age or early Roman period, and evidence of a 13th or 14th-century homestead. The woodland also served as a deer park in Tudor times. Additionally, the View of the Music Temple is a historical site on an island in a lake, dating from the 1770s and used as a theatre.
Many lakes around Wycombe are family-friendly. Penn Common Pond, Pond in Park Wood, and Spade Oak Nature Reserve are all categorized as family-friendly. The Lyde Garden and the area around the Music Temple also welcome families.
The lakes around Wycombe offer diverse natural features. Spade Oak Nature Reserve features wetlands, meadows, and woodlands, providing a home to various bird and animal species. Pond in Park Wood is set within a deciduous woodland, while The Lyde Garden is known for its planted gardens and being the source of a River Thames tributary.
Yes, Spade Oak Nature Reserve is an excellent spot for birdwatching and observing wildlife. Its varied habitats, including wetlands and meadows, attract a wide array of bird and animal species.
Yes, Penn Common Pond is conveniently located just across the road from the Red Lion pub, making it a great place to stop for a break or enjoy the view. The historic conservation area of Little Marlow village, near Little Marlow Lakes Country Park, also boasts charming pubs.
The area offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hikes like the "Marlow & Thames Path loop" or the "Spade Oak Nature Reserve & Warren Wood loop" in the Easy hikes around Wycombe guide. For road cycling, routes such as the "Penn Common Pond – Penn Village loop from Hazlemere" are available in the Road Cycling Routes around Wycombe guide. Running trails like the "Cookham Common & Thames Path loop from Bourne End station" can be found in the Running Trails around Wycombe guide.
Little Marlow Lakes Country Park, with its multitude of lakes and river meadows, offers miles of footpaths for exploration and is easily accessible from Marlow or Bourne End. While specific accessibility details for all paths vary, the park is known for its open countryside suitable for peaceful strolls.
The lakes around Wycombe can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the blooms at places like The Lyde Garden and for wildlife observation at Spade Oak Nature Reserve. Autumn offers beautiful foliage in the woodlands, and winter provides tranquil, less crowded experiences.
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences offered, from the historical exploration at Pond in Park Wood to the tranquil walks and wildlife observation at Spade Oak Nature Reserve. The presence of nearby amenities like pubs, as found near Penn Common Pond, also adds to the appeal.
While many outdoor areas are dog-friendly, it's important to check specific rules for each location. For example, dogs are generally not permitted at The Lyde Garden. Always look for signage or check local guidelines before visiting with your dog.


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