Top 3 Lakes around Ashill
Lakes around Ashill primarily feature unique geological formations known as pingos, which are post-glacial depressions. These natural features contribute to the area's distinct landscape, offering varied environments for exploration. The region, particularly around Thompson Common, is characterized by these ancient ponds and associated wildlife habitats. This area provides opportunities to observe specific ecological features and local flora and fauna.
Best lakes around Ashill
- The most popular lakes is Thompson Water, a lake that is part of Thompson Common, known…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Thompson Water
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Pingo Pond on the Pingo Trail
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Thompson Common Pingos and Ponds
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Tips from the Community
Take time to go off the trail to the bird hides and vantage points around the water. The route is best in spring before the nettles take over the path in summer!
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The pub in Thomson (The Chequers) on Griston Road is worth a visit...old with lots of character.
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Not so good spot for lunch, move on and find a better place
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Really nice easy walk good on a warm day with shelter from the forests
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Thompson Water and the common form an SSSI managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust. It's a particularly important area for dragonflies and damselflies.
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The Pingo Trail is an 8 mile hike around Thompson Common which takes in the delights of the ice age pools known as pingos. As the ground froze, water underneath froze to create little hills. When the ice melted the earth dropped back down and created the pingos. They are usually found in places such as Greenland and Alaska so it is an interesting and unique place to visit.
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Thompson Common is an important habitat for wildlife, with dragonflies, damselflies, otters and pool frogs all in residence. The common is famous for its pingos, post glacial depressions that look like small ponds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the lakes around Ashill unique?
The lakes around Ashill are primarily unique geological formations known as pingos. These are post-glacial depressions, formed when underground ice melted, creating distinct pools in the landscape. They are typically found in places like Greenland and Alaska, making their presence here particularly interesting.
Are there family-friendly lakes or trails near Ashill?
Yes, several areas are family-friendly. Both Thompson Water and Pingo Pond on the Pingo Trail are categorized as family-friendly. Thompson Common Pingos and Ponds also offers easy walks suitable for families.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the Ashill lakes?
The pingo ponds and commons are rich in wildlife. At Thompson Water and Thompson Common Pingos and Ponds, you can observe a significant habitat for dragonflies and damselflies (19 species recorded), over 400 plant species, 25 butterfly species, and more than 600 beetle species. Otters and pool frogs are also residents in the common.
What is the Pingo Trail and how difficult is it?
The Pingo Trail is an 8-mile hike around Thompson Common that allows visitors to explore the unique ice age pools known as pingos. While the specific difficulty of the entire trail isn't detailed, the walks around Thompson Common Pingos and Ponds are described as 'really nice easy walk good on a warm day with shelter from the forests'.
Are there any pubs or cafes near the lakes around Ashill?
Yes, if you're exploring the Pingo Trail, the pub in Thompson, 'The Chequers' on Griston Road, is mentioned as being worth a visit for its old character.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Ashill?
Beyond exploring the lakes themselves, you can find various outdoor activities. There are several running trails, road cycling routes, and hiking routes available. For example, you can find easy to moderate hiking loops from nearby villages like North Pickenham, Great Cressingham, and Ashill itself.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes near Ashill?
Yes, Thompson Water is categorized as dog-friendly, making it a suitable spot to visit with your canine companion.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Ashill?
While specific seasonal recommendations are not provided, the area's rich biodiversity, especially dragonflies and damselflies, suggests that late spring to early autumn would be ideal for wildlife observation. The 'really nice easy walk good on a warm day with shelter from the forests' at Thompson Common Pingos and Ponds implies pleasant conditions during warmer months.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Ashill?
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique geological features of the pingos and the rich biodiversity. The opportunity to observe rare species of dragonflies, damselflies, and various plants, along with the peaceful, natural environment, are frequently highlighted.
Are there any viewpoints around the lakes?
Yes, Thompson Water is also categorized as a viewpoint, offering scenic perspectives of the lake and its surroundings.
Are the lakes around Ashill protected areas?
Yes, Thompson Water and the common form a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, highlighting its ecological importance.
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