Top 5 Lakes around Shirburn
Best lakes around Shirburn are located within the surrounding Oxfordshire area, offering diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The region features publicly accessible water bodies, many of which are recognized for their natural beauty, wildlife habitats, and historical significance. These areas often include former industrial sites transformed into nature reserves or ponds within ancient woodlands.
Best lakes around Shirburn
- The most popular lakes is Pond in Park Wood, a lake that is part of a deciduous woodland with a…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Old Kiln Lakes Wetland Habitat
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Pond in Park Wood
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The Lyde Garden
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Old Kiln Lakes (Former Chinnor Chalk Pit)
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Russell's Water Pond
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This is one of the quarries here, a part of the former Chinnor Chalk Pit, now flooded and known as Old Kiln Lakes. The lakes are freshwater, but very alkaline, and there was a warning to the public issued in 2012 to not swim in there. It's a striking and moon-like place, looking very dramatic and slightly out-of-this-world. A definite must!
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Great Circular walks from this village....very flat as well
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Pond is lovely. Full of ducks (keep dogs on lead) and some large fish!
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This quarry is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and well known by geologists for its phenomenal history. Packed with fossils, some of the finds here date back 100 million years. There's no public access, but you can catch glimpses of its bright high-alkaline water from the surrounding footpaths.
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Chinnor, Chalk and Cement Mr. W. Benton's Cement and Lime Works opened in Chinnor in 1908, but cement making on a truly industrial scale did not begin until 1919. Output of cement from Chinnor peaked at about 5600 tonnes per week in the 1990s. Up to 120 people were employed at any one time. The cement works closed in 1999 and there are plans for the re-development of the site, using the flat areas for housing but also with opportunities for recreation and conservation in the water filled quarries The scale of chalk extraction for cement making can be seen from a short walk along the Ridgeway National Trail. The Ridgeway runs on a high causeway between the large quarries, giving views of the pits through the boundary fences. (Do not cross over or through the fences). Geology One of the chalk quarries has been protected as a geological Site of Special Scientific Interest as it has particularly good exposures of both the Lower Chalk and Middle Chalk geological layers. Both layers have given upimportant fossil ammonites.
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The Lyde, a tributary of the River Thames, rises here and the garden is planted with primulas, astilbes, gunnera and hostas. Originally three watercress beds, surrounded by large and beautiful wych elms, it has — as a result of elm disease — become a wilderness. The garden is open at the owners’ discretion from 9am – 4pm daily. Dogs are not permitted. See: carington.co.uk/gardens/lyde-garden
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of lakes can I find around Shirburn?
The area around Shirburn features a variety of lakes, from natural ponds within ancient woodlands to former industrial sites transformed into wildlife habitats. You can explore places like Pond in Park Wood, known for its historical significance, or the visually striking Old Kiln Lakes Wetland Habitat, a former quarry with a rich geological past.
Are there any family-friendly lakes near Shirburn?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Russell's Water Pond is a peaceful spot with ducks and fish, offering a great starting point for circular walks. Pond in Park Wood, set within a deciduous woodland, is also considered family-friendly.
Which lakes are dog-friendly around Shirburn?
Russell's Water Pond is a dog-friendly location, though it's recommended to keep dogs on a lead due to the presence of ducks. For other areas, always check local signage regarding dog access.
Can I go fishing in any of the lakes near Shirburn?
While the immediate Shirburn area has varied water bodies, for dedicated angling, Panshill Fishery Lakes near Oxford offer several lakes stocked with various fish species like Carp, Catfish, Roach, and Bream. These lakes provide opportunities for both day and night fishing in a peaceful setting.
Are there any lakes with historical or geological significance?
Absolutely. Pond in Park Wood is part of a woodland with evidence of ancient field systems and a former deer park. The Old Kiln Lakes Wetland Habitat, a former chalk quarry, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest known for its geological history and fossil finds dating back 100 million years.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?
Many lakes in the region are rich in wildlife. Russell's Water Pond is home to ducks and fish. Thrupp Lake, part of the Radley Lakes complex, is particularly noted for its rich wildlife, including damselflies and dragonflies in the summer months, making it a valuable habitat for nature observation.
Are there opportunities for walking or hiking near these lakes?
Yes, the lakes often serve as excellent starting points or features along walking routes. Russell's Water Pond is known for circular walks. You can find various hiking trails in the wider area, including easy hikes like the Watlington Hill – Watlington White Mark loop or the Wormsley Estate Woodland loop.
Can I swim in any of the lakes around Shirburn?
Swimming is generally not advised in many of the local lakes. For instance, the Old Kiln Lakes (Former Chinnor Chalk Pit), while visually striking, have highly alkaline water, and public warnings have been issued against swimming there.
What are the best times to visit the lakes near Shirburn?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. Summer months are ideal for spotting damselflies and dragonflies at places like Thrupp Lake. Spring and autumn offer pleasant walking conditions and beautiful foliage. Always check local conditions before your visit.
Are there any lakes with public access for quiet recreation?
Thrupp Lake, part of the Radley Lakes complex, offers valuable green space for nature conservation and quiet recreation. While immediate lakeside access to Old Kiln Lakes Wetland Habitat may be restricted, glimpses can be caught from surrounding footpaths. Blenheim Park Lake also offers tranquil settings within its expansive parkland, with many footpaths free to access.
What other outdoor activities are available near the lakes?
Beyond walking, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can explore mountain biking trails like the Young Offenders Singletrack loop or enjoy road cycling routes such as the All Saints Church, Shirburn loop. Farmoor Reservoir is also known for water-based activities through the Oxford Sailing Club.
Is there an entrance fee for any of the lakes?
While many natural lakes and ponds are freely accessible, some, like Blenheim Park Lake, are situated within private estates. There is an entrance fee for Blenheim Palace and its formal gardens, though many of the park's footpaths are free to access, allowing you to stroll by the lake.
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