Best lakes around Charwelton are found within the wider Northamptonshire area, offering a range of features and activities. This region is characterized by its rolling rural landscape, providing a blend of woodland, meadow, and grassland. Visitors can explore various water bodies, from large reservoirs to smaller nature reserves, each contributing to the area's natural appeal. The area provides opportunities for walking, cycling, and observing wildlife.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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This lovely flat path that runs around the entire reservoir makes for an ideal running spot. You will be treated to a diverse range of wildlife, excellent views, and numerous idyllic spots to stop and catch your breath.
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Built on an ironstone ridge above pretty Northamptonshire countryside, Helidon is a picturesque village. Notable buildings include its lovely, 13th-century parish church and its converted tower mill, which stands proud on Windmill Hill at 670 feet (200 m) above sea level. For walkers completing the Jurassic Way long-distance footpath, there's the option of the Red Lion for both food and accommodation. The nearby Hellidon Lakes are also worth exploring.
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Wormleighton Reservoir is used to maintain the water level in the Oxford Canal. Planned in 1787, it has served the canal well ever since. The reservoir is an excellent place to spot a variety of bird species, such as the ring-necked duck, egret, bufflehead and great crested grebe.
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Daventry Country Park is a popular park ideally situated in the urban fringe of Daventry, within one mile of the town centre and easily accessible by car, bicycle or on foot with the benefit of cycle ways and footpaths from the surrounding areas. With a large reservoir, a cafe selling hot and cold food, an adventure playground, outdoor gym equipment, numerous picnic spots, a nature trail, accessible bird hides, and a wealth of wildlife, Daventry Country Park is a great family day out. The Park has been awarded the Country Parks Accreditation and also holds a Green Flag Award recognising it as being among the best green spaces in the country.
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The lakes around Charwelton offer a diverse range of activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, and running, particularly on paths like the Draycote Water Circular Path. Many lakes are excellent for birdwatching, fishing, and observing wildlife. Some locations, such as Pitsford Water and Grendon Lakes, also provide opportunities for watersports like sailing and swimming.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Daventry Country Park Reservoir is a popular choice, featuring an adventure playground, a cafe, and a nature trail. Pitsford Water also offers family-friendly activities like a gnome trail, brass rubbing, and scavenger hunts within Brixworth Country Park. Grendon Lakes welcomes children and provides various activities.
For walking, the Draycote Water Circular Path offers a lovely flat route with excellent views and wildlife. Daventry Country Park Reservoir has a nice trail around the lake. Pitsford Water and Stanwick Lakes also provide extensive walking and cycling paths. For more hiking options, you can explore routes like the 'Hollybush Inn – Hellidon Village loop' which is a moderate hike near Hellidon Lakes. Find more hiking trails in the area on the Hiking around Charwelton guide.
Several lakes are excellent for birdwatching. Wormleighton Reservoir is known for spotting various bird species, including ring-necked ducks and great crested grebes. Ravensthorpe Reservoir, Pitsford Water, and Kinewell Lake are also significant locations for birdwatching, with Kinewell Lake being a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest for its importance to rare European birds.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Stanwick Lakes has dedicated fishing lakes, including Elson's Lake for carp anglers. Drayton Reservoir is highly renowned as a match fishery, popular for carp and pike fishing. Pitsford Water, Ravensthorpe Reservoir, Grendon Lakes, and Kinewell Lake also offer good fishing opportunities.
Daventry Country Park Reservoir features a cafe, adventure playground, and picnic spots. Stanwick Lakes boasts a visitor centre with a café, shop, and event spaces. Grendon Lakes has an Alpine clubhouse with a licensed bar, restaurant, toilets, showers, and changing rooms. Pitsford Water also has cafes nearby.
Absolutely. The Draycote Water Circular Path is ideal for cycling, offering a flat route. Pitsford Water and Stanwick Lakes also provide excellent cycling paths. For more cycling routes, check out the Cycling around Charwelton guide.
Hellidon Lakes are set within 220 acres of rolling countryside, offering scenic views. They are part of a larger estate, providing a tranquil setting. The nearby Hellidon Village also offers historical interest with its 13th-century parish church and converted tower mill.
Grendon Lakes is often considered a 'best-kept secret' for those looking to relax amidst picturesque views with options for watersports and fishing. Kinewell Lake, while a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, might also offer a more secluded experience for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for watersports, picnics, and enjoying the lush greenery. Autumn offers beautiful foliage for walks, and winter can provide serene, crisp walks, especially for birdwatching at reservoirs like Ravensthorpe or Wormleighton Reservoir.
Many of the lakes and their surrounding parks are dog-friendly, though specific rules may vary. For instance, Grendon Lakes welcomes pets. It's always advisable to check the specific regulations for each location regarding leash requirements and restricted areas before your visit.
Pitsford Water offers various watersports, including sailing. Grendon Lakes has two dedicated lakes for watersports and an Alpine clubhouse with facilities. For more detailed information on specific watersports activities and booking, it's best to check the individual lake's official websites.


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