Top 10 Lakes around Pidley cum Fenton
Best lakes around Pidley cum Fenton are found within several nature reserves, offering diverse natural landscapes. The area is situated near significant lake systems that originated from former gravel pits, providing rich biodiversity and recreational opportunities. These reserves feature extensive wetland systems, grasslands, and ancient hedgerows, creating varied environments for wildlife.
Best lakes around Pidley cum Fenton
- The most popular lakes is Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve, a lake system that originated from flooded sand and gravel quarries. It…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Far Fen Lake
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Godmanchester Nature Reserve
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Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve
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Wildlife Sanctuary Lake
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Benches Along the Busway Cycle Path
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Tips from the Community
Being here three times in the nice weather, I consider this a place where you can reset yourself after your daily routine or others, where you can sit and listen to the seagulls and the geese and any other sound. In the evening the sunset was so astonishing during the summer. I understood the place was becoming muddy after a few days of rain.
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Parking is £2. There is a portaloo and a bin in the carpark. This hike was limited in what you could see, in August the trees and weeds blocked most of the view. For safety note that the pathway takes the narrow road that cars are entering and exiting. There are two crossings over the guided path where the buses are traveling at speed. The first part of the walk by the Ouse was lovely as was the last part on a field where you ton off by the weight limited bridge. I would imagine in winter the path would be a mush pit.
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The cycleway passes between a series of scenic lakes formed from old sand and gravel quarries, now a nature reserve. The path is often flooded and unpassable for road bikes between autumn and spring though.
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The tarmac cycle lane runs parallel to the bus-way, both providing an excellent link between Huntingdon and Cambridge. Cycle-parks at each major bus stop.
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The bus whizzes through the yellow grain landscape like oiled lightning. The intercity bus from Cambridge to St Ivy rolls over a special lane bus track and reaches an impressive speed. Today he transports the four of us to the "Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve", in the lake landscape we hike and do "birdwatching". “Fen Drayton Lakes was originally a flooded sand and gravel pit bordering river floodplains. Today the area is a magnet for a variety of wildlife including otters, dragonflies, ducks, swans and geese. There is something to see (and hear) here all year round.” (https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/fen-drayton-lakes/)
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Like many nature reserves in England, Godmanchester Nature Reserve was once gravel pits. The peaceful nature could not be further away from its industrial history. Keep an eye out for songbirds, ducks, geese, kingfishers and overwintering wildfowl as you run through.
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Part of the RSPB Nature Reserve, Far Fen Lake is recognisable by the island near its eastern shore.
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The busway cycle path provides plenty of spots to stop and take in a view or have some refreshments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lake systems near Pidley cum Fenton?
The primary lake systems near Pidley cum Fenton are the Godmanchester Nature Reserve and the Fen Drayton Lakes (RSPB Nature Reserve). Both originated from former gravel pits and offer rich biodiversity and recreational opportunities.
Are there family-friendly walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, both Godmanchester Nature Reserve and Fen Drayton Lakes offer family-friendly options. Godmanchester Nature Reserve has over two miles of wide rides and minor paths, many suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Fen Drayton Lakes also has multiple trails, with some hard-surfaced and easily accessible paths.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Fen Drayton Lakes?
Fen Drayton Lakes is a haven for wildlife. You can spot otters, dragonflies, ducks, swans, geese, and various waterbirds. Hobbies and marsh harriers are also seen soaring over the reedbeds, and Great Crested Grebes perform courtship dances. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching year-round.
What is the historical significance of Godmanchester Nature Reserve?
Godmanchester Nature Reserve holds historical interest, particularly around Roman Lake, which was the site of a Roman well discovered during quarrying work in the 1980s. This Roman heritage adds a unique dimension to the natural beauty of the reserve.
Are there cycling opportunities near the lakes?
Yes, Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve offers multiple trails suitable for cycling, with some paths being hard-surfaced. The busway cycle path, which passes between a series of scenic lakes, provides an excellent link and offers plenty of spots to stop and take in the view, as highlighted by Benches Along the Busway Cycle Path.
What natural features are prominent around the lakes?
The lakes around Pidley cum Fenton are characterized by extensive wetland systems, grasslands, and ancient hedgerows. These varied habitats support diverse wildlife, including open water, scrub, and woodland areas. Many lakes, like Far Fen Lake, feature islands that serve as important breeding grounds.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in this region?
Visitors appreciate the tranquil walks and the abundance of wildlife. Many find places like Wildlife Sanctuary Lake to be excellent for spotting birds and enjoying attractive waterside strolls. The peaceful natural surroundings offer a chance to reset and enjoy nature.
Are there any specific lakes known for birdwatching?
Both Godmanchester Nature Reserve and Fen Drayton Lakes are excellent for birdwatching. Godmanchester is known for songbirds, ducks, geese, kingfishers, and overwintering wildfowl. Fen Drayton Lakes is a magnet for a wide variety of birdlife, including hobbies, marsh harriers, and large numbers of ducks, swans, and geese in winter.
Where can I find easy walking trails around the lakes?
For easy walking, Godmanchester Nature Reserve provides over two miles of wide paths with slight gradients. Fen Drayton Lakes also has a network of footpaths, with some hard-surfaced sections that are easily accessible. For more specific routes, you can explore the hiking guide for Pidley cum Fenton, which includes easy loops like 'Windmill Bakery & Tearoom – Warboys Village Pond loop from Warboys'.
What are the best times to visit the lakes for walking?
The lakes offer something year-round. Winter is excellent for spotting large numbers of ducks, swans, and geese. Summer brings dragonflies and terns. However, some paths, particularly around Fen Drayton Lakes, can be flooded and unpassable for road bikes between autumn and spring, so check conditions if planning a visit during those seasons.
Are there running trails available near the lakes?
Yes, there are running trails in the vicinity. You can find various options in the running trails guide for Pidley cum Fenton, including routes like 'Ballast Hole Lake loop from Somersham' which is a moderate 7.4 km run.
Is there parking available at the nature reserves?
Yes, parking is available at Fen Drayton Lakes, with a fee of £2. Information for Godmanchester Nature Reserve suggests easy access, implying parking facilities are likely available, though specific details are not provided in the guide.
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