Best lakes around Fornham St Martin are found in Suffolk, England, a region characterized by its tranquil natural landscapes. The area is known for its St Genevieve Lakes complex, which includes several notable lakes primarily dedicated to carp fishing. These lakes offer a private setting for visitors seeking outdoor activities. Fornham St Martin provides a variety of lake environments, from expansive waters to smaller, secluded spots.
Last updated: July 13, 2026
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It's a vast, scenic estate to cycle through, mostly on compacted, dusty gravel, but there are chunkier bits in some parts. Entering through Horringer and exiting via Chevington worked for me.
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Lots of different types of terrain to learn, pay attention to some of the forest turns not all are obvious, few lift your bike over log sections, one built for short people section but fun, watch your head;-). Beware of a couple of very bust main road crossings!!! This time of year give yourself time, lights and toes and fingers need warmth. Shout out to 'Wolf Way' for the route;-)
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As part of the sprawling Ickworth Estate, Ickworth Park showcases quaint lakes, serene woodland and historic landmarks.
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This lake will be the first one you see upon arriving in the area near the visitor center. It's the largest in terms of surface area, and numerous water activities such as sailing or canoeing take place on it. The trail that runs along the side of the lake offers excellent views at some points.
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In addition to being able to grab something to eat or drink, at this center, you can get information to make the most of your visit to Lackford Lakes. They also have a shop where you can even rent binoculars if you've left yours at home. Remember that dogs are only allowed on the red trail and must be on a leash; guide dogs are the only ones allowed on the other trails and in the center. More information: https://www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/lackford-lakes-visitor-centre
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Not 100% sure the cut through from Ampton to Gt Livermere is a legit cycle trail. I was chased off by a very grumpy gamekeeper who told me it was a footpath not a bridleway.
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The region is known for the St Genevieve Lakes complex, which includes St Martin's Lake, St Genevieve's Lake, and All Saints Lake, primarily for carp fishing. Other notable lakes include Gravel Track by Livermere Lake, West Stow Country Park Lake, and Grafham Water Sailing Lake.
Yes, the St Genevieve Lakes complex is renowned for its carp fishing. St Martin's Lake, for instance, boasts over 100 carp in the 20lb bracket, 50 over 30lbs, and 8 fish exceeding 40lbs. St Genevieve's Lake also has a significant population of large carp, including one over 40 lbs and 30 over 30 lbs.
The lakes offer varied natural features. St Martin's Lake has a gravel bed and can become weedy in summer, supporting a rich fish environment. St Genevieve's Lake features varying depths, gravel bars, plateaus, and depths up to 25 feet, with meticulous landscaping including nearly a quarter of a million planted trees. Areas like West Stow Country Park Lake offer nature trails, heath, and woodland walks.
Yes, West Stow Country Park Lake is a family-friendly option within 125 acres of countryside, offering nature trails and bird hides. The Lackford Lakes Visitor Centre, near Lackford Lakes, provides information and facilities suitable for families, though dogs are restricted to certain trails.
Beyond fishing, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. There are numerous running trails, including routes like the 'St. Mary's Church loop from Fornham St. Genevieve'. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails such as 'The King's Forest from Bury St Edmunds'. For more options, explore the Running Trails around Fornham St Martin or MTB Trails around Fornham St Martin guides.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. You can find easy hikes like the 'St Edmundsbury Cathedral – Abbey Gate, Bury St Edmunds loop from Bury St Edmunds'. For more details on routes and difficulty, refer to the Easy hikes around Fornham St Martin guide.
Yes, Grafham Water Sailing Lake is specifically used for various water activities such as sailing or canoeing. It is the largest lake in terms of surface area in its immediate vicinity.
The St Genevieve Lakes complex offers amenities such as heated flush toilets, fisherman's cabins with fridges, microwaves, kettles, clean drinking water, and charging points. The entire site is fenced with security gates and CCTV, ensuring privacy and security for visitors.
For the St Genevieve Lakes complex, many swims at St Martin's Lake and St Genevieve's Lake are accessible by vehicle via a farm track, allowing anglers to drive directly to their fishing spot. Specific parking details for other lakes like West Stow Country Park Lake would be available at the park's entrance.
The lakes offer a tranquil experience year-round. While St Martin's Lake can become weedy in summer, this contributes to the thriving fish population. For general outdoor activities, spring and autumn often provide pleasant weather for walking and cycling. Fishing conditions can vary seasonally, so checking with local angling resources is recommended for specific fishing trips.
Yes, Ickworth Park, part of the sprawling Ickworth Estate, showcases historic landmarks alongside its quaint lakes and serene woodland. Additionally, near West Stow Country Park Lake, you can explore the Anglo Saxon village.
Visitors appreciate the tranquil and private setting, especially at the St Genevieve Lakes complex, which offers a peaceful fishing experience. The diverse terrain and natural features, such as those found at Gravel Track by Livermere Lake, are also highly valued for exploration and outdoor activities.


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