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Wycombe

Top 5 Lakes around Wycombe

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.

Best lakes around Wycombe

  • The most popular lakes is Penn Common Pond, a lake with a nearby pub and views. It offers a place to stop and enjoy the surroundings.
  • Another must-see spot is Pond in Park Wood, a lake within a deciduous woodland. This area features evidence of ancient field systems and historical homesteads.
  • Visitors also love Spade Oak Nature Reserve, a nature reserve with wetlands, meadows, and woodlands. It provides a home to a variety of bird and animal species.
  • Wycombe is known for its diverse natural and historical lakes, including those with ancient archaeological features, nature reserves, and those with nearby amenities. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore.
  • The lakes around Wycombe are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 10 upvotes and 4 photos shared across the highlights.

Last updated: April 30, 2026

Pond in Park Wood

Highlight • Lake

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.
nationaltrust.org.uk/chilterns-countryside/trails/bradenham-beech-woods-and-bunkers-trail

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The Lyde Garden

Highlight • Lake

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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Spade Oak Nature Reserve

Highlight • Forest

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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Penn Common Pond

Highlight • Lake

just over the road from the red lion

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View of the Music Temple

Highlight • Historical Site

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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Tips from the Community

David Bavin-Hobbs
February 5, 2024, Penn Common Pond

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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just over the road from the red lion

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M P
September 15, 2019, The Lyde Garden

Beautiful peaceful gardens and free to enter and explore.

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Edvard
December 10, 2018, The Lyde Garden

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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Edvard
April 28, 2018, Pond in Park Wood

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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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular lakes to visit around Wycombe?

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.

Are there any lakes around Wycombe with historical significance?

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.

Which lakes are suitable for families with children?

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.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see at the lakes?

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.

Are there opportunities for birdwatching or wildlife observation?

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.

Are there any pubs or cafes near the lakes?

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.

What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Wycombe?

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.

Are there accessible lakeside walks near Wycombe?

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.

What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Wycombe?

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.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Wycombe?

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.

Can I bring my dog to the lakes?

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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Find the best lakes around Wycombe per region:

Lacey GreenGreat And Little HampdenMarlow BottomLane EndWooburnLittle MarlowStokenchurchWest WycombeGreat And Little Kimble Cum MarshEllesboroughBledlow-Cum-SaundertonChepping WycombePrinces RisboroughBradenhamDownleyGreat MarlowIbstoneHedsorLongwick-Cum-IlmerRadnageMedmenhamTurvilleHazlemerePiddington And Wheeler EndHambledenHughendenMarlow

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

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