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United Kingdom
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Norfolk
Breckland District

Thompson

Top 5 Lakes around Thompson

Best lakes around Thompson are characterized by unique geological formations and rich biodiversity. The area is notable for its post-glacial depressions known as pingos, which create distinctive pond landscapes. These sites support a wide array of plant and insect species, including numerous dragonflies and damselflies. The region offers opportunities for exploring these natural monuments and their surrounding habitats.

Best lakes around Thompson

  • The most popular lakes is Thompson Water, a lake that is famous for its pingos, a series…

Last updated: June 28, 2026

Thompson Water

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Thompson Common is famous for its pingos; a series of around 400 post-glacial depressions. Here, you can see more than 400 different species of plants. It’s also one of the …

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Pingo Pond on the Pingo Trail

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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 …

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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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Langmere Lake

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Langmere is a lake that performs something of a magic trick. Every year, it’'s water level can fluctuate by several metres. Sometimes you’ll see it — other times, you won’t. …

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East Wretham Heath is a nature reserve that's home to many rare species of plant and insect. Scarce breeding birds such as woodlark and redstart can be observed here, as …

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Hiking the Greater Ridgeway — Following Roman roads across England

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Hiking the Greater Ridgeway — Following Roman roads across England

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Tips from the Community

LivingAutumn
July 4, 2025, Thompson Water

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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Andy
August 29, 2023, Thompson Water

Just enjoy being out n about

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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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51m
August 18, 2023, Thompson Water

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 Thompson unique?

The lakes in the Thompson area are particularly unique due to their post-glacial depressions known as pingos. These distinctive pond landscapes, such as those found at Thompson Water, are home to a rich biodiversity, including numerous species of plants, dragonflies, damselflies, and even otters and pool frogs.

Are there family-friendly lakes to visit near Thompson?

Yes, several lakes and natural areas around Thompson are family-friendly. Thompson Water, Pingo Pond on the Pingo Trail, and Thompson Common Pingos and Ponds are all noted as suitable for families, offering opportunities to explore unique natural features and wildlife.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around these lakes?

The lakes and commons around Thompson are rich in wildlife. At Thompson Water, you can find over 400 plant species, 19 species of breeding dragonflies and damselflies, 25 butterfly species, and more than 600 beetle species. Thompson Common Pingos and Ponds is also known for otters and pool frogs. At Langmere Lake, you might spot various bird species like coot, curlew, snipe, and teal.

Are there hiking opportunities near the lakes around Thompson?

Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. The Pingo Trail, which includes Pingo Pond on the Pingo Trail, is an 8-mile hike exploring the unique ice age pools. For more options, you can find various easy hikes in the area, including a 7.6 km loop around Thompson Water. Explore more hiking routes at Easy hikes around Thompson.

What are pingos and where can I see them?

Pingos are unique post-glacial depressions formed by melting ice, creating distinctive pond landscapes. They are usually found in places like Greenland and Alaska, making their presence around Thompson quite special. You can observe these fascinating geological features at Thompson Water, Pingo Pond on the Pingo Trail, and Thompson Common Pingos and Ponds.

Can I bring my dog to the lakes in Thompson?

Yes, Thompson Water is noted as dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of the area with your canine companion.

What is special about Langmere Lake?

Langmere Lake is known for its fluctuating water levels, which can change by several meters annually, sometimes even disappearing entirely. This phenomenon is linked to underground water levels that vary with the seasons. It's also a great spot for observing various bird species.

Are there cycling routes near the lakes in Thompson?

Yes, the Thompson area offers various cycling routes. You can find both mountain biking trails and road cycling routes. For mountain biking, explore options like the 'Thompson Water – Castle Acre Bailey Gate loop'. For road cycling, routes like 'Penny's Cafe loop from Wayland Wood' are available. More details can be found at MTB Trails around Thompson and Road Cycling Routes around Thompson.

What is East Wretham Heath Nature Reserve?

East Wretham Heath Nature Reserve is the oldest Breckland nature reserve, purchased by Norfolk Wildlife Trust at the start of World War II. It's an important habitat for many rare plant and insect species, and you can observe scarce breeding birds such as woodlark, redstart, and stone curlews here.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Thompson?

Visitors particularly appreciate the unique geological features like the pingos and the rich biodiversity. The peaceful, natural environment, the opportunities for wildlife spotting (especially dragonflies, damselflies, and birds), and the easy walking trails through forests are frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects of the area.

Is there a specific trail to explore the pingos?

Yes, the Pingo Trail is an excellent way to explore these unique ice age pools. This 8-mile hike takes you around Thompson Common, allowing you to experience the distinctive landscape and learn about how these formations were created by melting ice.

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

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