Top 5 Lakes around the London Borough Of Waltham Forest
Best lakes around the London Borough Of Waltham Forest include significant urban wetlands and tranquil forest lakes. This area is characterized by its diverse natural landscapes, offering a blend of ecological importance and recreational opportunities within an urban setting. It features Europe's largest urban wetland, providing a vital water source and a habitat for numerous bird species, alongside historic lakes within Epping Forest. The borough offers accessible green spaces for walking, cycling, and wildlife observation.
Best lakes around the London Borough Of Waltham Forest
- The most popular lakes is Hackney Marshes, a viewpoint and large open space with paths suitable for cycling. It offers green open spaces, hidden paths, and riverside walks, providing a quiet escape within London.
- Another must-see spot is Highams Park Boating Lake, a forest lake and one of the largest open water stretches in Epping Forest. This tranquil oasis is a popular spot for taking a break and enjoying the natural surroundings.
- Visitors also love Hollow Pond, a recreational area ideal for walking, picnics, and activities. Known for offering wide skies, it provides an escape into nature with options for rowing and wildlife watching.
- The London Borough Of Waltham Forest is known for its urban wetlands, forest lakes, and recreational ponds. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from internationally important nature reserves to historic boating lakes.
- The lakes around the London Borough Of Waltham Forest are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 260 upvotes and 17 photos shared.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Hackney Marshes
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Highams Park Boating Lake
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Tips from the Community
Leyton Flats and Hollow Pond are great places to explore by bike. On warm summer days, it's an ideal place to bring a picnic and watch the local wildlife. There's even the option of hiring a rowing boat and getting out onto the lake.
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Hollow Pond is on the southern tip of Epping Forest in London. It was built in the 18th century as a reservoir for water supply. Today it's a lovely recreational area ideal for walking, picnics and activities. It's easily accessible by transport and a real escape into nature right in the heart of the city.
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Tranquil oasis in the middle of Epping Forest. It can get busy at the weekends, but it's a really nice spot to stop and take a breather.
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Get out of the city stress. And in the area of the green areas you can really ride a bike again.
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Don’t try this on a road bike !!! At least not in winter
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Fantastic off-road sections through the forest around here.
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Early morning, peaceful cycle ride where you can forget that you are in east London. Green open spaces, hidden paths and bridges leading into London or out to the countryside
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A nice path that's easy to cycle on, possibly even on a road bike and definitely on a gravel bike. It's quiet, with some people trekking around but definitely enough space for a nice bike ride through the wild, in London!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the lakes in the London Borough of Waltham Forest unique?
The lakes in this borough offer a unique blend of significant urban wetlands and tranquil forest lakes. You'll find Europe's largest urban wetland, Hackney Marshes, which is an internationally important nature reserve, alongside historic lakes within Epping Forest like Highams Park Boating Lake and Hollow Pond. They provide vital green spaces for recreation and wildlife within an urban setting.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the London Borough of Waltham Forest?
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Hollow Pond is a popular recreational area perfect for walking, picnics, and even hiring rowing boats. Highams Park Boating Lake also offers a tranquil spot for families to enjoy the natural surroundings.
What kind of wildlife can I spot around the lakes?
The lakes are rich in biodiversity. Walthamstow Wetlands, for example, is an internationally important nature reserve known for over 200 bird species, including migratory birds, grey herons, little egrets, kingfishers, and peregrine falcons. At Highams Park Boating Lake and Hollow Pond, you can often see swans, mallards, great crested grebes, ducks, and geese.
Are there good walking routes near the lakes?
Absolutely. Walthamstow Wetlands offers over 13 miles of paths for exploring. You can also find many walking opportunities around Highams Park Boating Lake and Hollow Pond, which are part of Epping Forest. For more detailed routes, explore the easy hikes and general hiking guides for the area.
Can I go cycling around the lakes?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Hackney Marshes offers paths suitable for cycling, even on road or gravel bikes, providing a quiet ride through nature. Walthamstow Wetlands also has extensive paths. For more cycling options, check out the cycling guide for the London Borough of Waltham Forest.
What historical significance do these lakes hold?
Many of the lakes have interesting histories. Highams Park Boating Lake was created in 1794 by landscape designer Humphry Repton. Walthamstow Wetlands has an industrial past, with old metalworks and gunpowder mills adding to its aesthetic. Hollow Pond was originally built in the 18th century as a reservoir.
Are there places to eat or drink near the lakes?
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. Walthamstow Wetlands has a visitor centre with a café in the former Marine Engine House. Near Hollow Pond, there are cafes and kiosks available. Hackney Marshes also lists a café among its amenities.
Is fishing permitted in any of the lakes?
Yes, fishing is allowed in certain areas. Walthamstow Wetlands offers fishing for rainbow trout. At Hollow Pond, you can fish for coarse fish like carp, roach, and perch, which is free of charge if you hold a valid Environment Agency rod license. Angling is also permitted at Highams Park Boating Lake.
What is the accessibility like for visitors with mobility needs?
Walthamstow Wetlands is generally accessible and free to visit, offering a significant escape into nature within the city. Many of the paths are suitable for a variety of users. It's always recommended to check specific path conditions if you have particular mobility requirements.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in this area?
Visitors frequently praise the tranquility and natural beauty. Many enjoy the peaceful cycle rides and hidden paths at Hackney Marshes, the opportunity to hire rowing boats and watch wildlife at Hollow Pond, and the tranquil oasis provided by Highams Park Boating Lake. The ability to find an escape into nature within London is a common highlight.
Are there any specific regulations for dog walking around the lakes?
While many areas are dog-friendly, specific regulations can vary. It's generally advised to keep dogs on a lead in nature reserves like Walthamstow Wetlands to protect wildlife, especially during nesting seasons. Always look for local signage at each lake for specific rules regarding dog walking.
When is the best time to visit the lakes for birdwatching?
Walthamstow Wetlands is an excellent spot for birdwatching year-round, but it's particularly rewarding during migratory seasons (spring and autumn) when a wider variety of species can be observed. Early mornings often provide the best opportunities for spotting birds.
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