Lakes around Gisleham, a village in Suffolk, England, provide access to various waterways near Lowestoft. The area is known for its recreational activities and natural landscapes. Visitors can explore significant bodies of water such as Oulton Broad and Easton Broad. These locations offer opportunities for boating, watersports, and birdwatching.
Last updated: August 23, 2026
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Peto's Marsh Trail (Red) 2.5 miles (up to 3.5 miles)* 1.5 – 2 hours Marsh Lanes Trail (Blue) 2.25 miles 1.25 hours Share Marsh Trail (Black) 1.75 miles 1 hour Sprat's Water Trail (Orange) 0.75
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Lovely park by the board, lots to do, including, tennis and children's play park.
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The reservoir is on private land and there are notices warning there is no right of way or public access allowed.
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Nicolas Everitt Park is a popular public park situated along the shores of Oulton Broad, a large body of water that forms part of the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads. Oulton Broad is known for its boating and watersports activities, and Nicolas Everitt Park is an excellent starting point for boaters to explore the surrounding waterways. You can enjoy picnics in the park's open green spaces while overlooking the scenic views of Oulton Broad. There's also a cafe in the middle of the park.
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Under no circumstances should you go swimming
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The reservoir is just on the right as you enter Church Road from Sotterly. A great spring and summer spot for a rest and take in the plethora of wildlife that frequent the reservoir.
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Great place to spot various waterfowl. We saw barnacle geese arriving for the winter when we visited in October
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For families, Nicolas Everitt Park on Oulton Broad is an excellent choice. It features green spaces for picnics, a cafe, and a play area. Castle Marshes Nature Reserve also offers opportunities for families to explore nature and spot wildlife.
The Easton Broad Birdwatching Spot is recognized as a prime location for observing various waterfowl, especially during the winter months when barnacle geese, teal, widgeon, and gadwall can be seen. Castle Marshes Nature Reserve is another excellent spot, transforming in winter to host overwintering wildfowl.
Yes, Oulton Broad, accessible from Nicolas Everitt Park, is well-known for boating and watersports. The park serves as a great starting point for exploring the surrounding waterways.
Yes, South Elmham Lakes, located near the Norfolk Suffolk border, offers a private, pre-bookable open water swimming experience. It boasts excellent water quality and is set within a tranquil wildflower meadow.
At Castle Marshes Nature Reserve, you can spot butterflies, dragonflies (including the rare Norfolk hawker), warblers, lapwings, redshanks, and birds of prey in summer. In winter, the flooded marshes attract teal, widgeon, and gadwall. Easton Broad is also excellent for waterfowl, particularly barnacle geese in autumn.
Yes, there are several hiking routes in the area. You can find options like the Kessingland loop or routes exploring the Suffolk Coast Path. For more details, explore the Hiking around Gisleham guide.
The best time depends on your interests. For birdwatching, particularly waterfowl, the winter months are ideal at Easton Broad and Castle Marshes. For open water swimming at South Elmham Lakes, the season runs from June to October. Summer offers pleasant conditions for picnics and general exploration at places like Nicolas Everitt Park.
Yes, Nicolas Everitt Park on Oulton Broad features a cafe, providing a convenient spot for refreshments while enjoying the scenic views.
You can take a popular detour that offers a View of Oulton Broad, allowing you to avoid busy roads and train crossings while still enjoying the scenery.
Besides hiking, the Gisleham area offers various road cycling routes. You can find easy to moderate routes like the 'Lowestoft Promenade – Nicolas Everitt Park loop'. For more options, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Gisleham guide.
South Elmham Lakes offers a secluded and tranquil environment, set within a wildflower meadow and surrounded by mature trees, making it ideal for a peaceful escape. Castle Marshes Nature Reserve also provides a serene natural setting, especially during the quieter winter months.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural beauty, from the expansive Oulton Broad ideal for watersports and picnics, to the rich birdlife at Easton Broad and Castle Marshes. The tranquil settings and opportunities for walking and cycling are also highly valued.


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