Best lakes around Yate, a town in South Gloucestershire, England, offer various recreational opportunities and natural beauty. The area features several lakes and ponds that provide tranquil spots for angling, wildlife observation, and leisurely walks. These bodies of water are set within green spaces, contributing to a diverse natural environment for visitors.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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private property very quiet area, lovely bridle paths however have to keep dogs on lead most areas.
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The Duchess Pond in the Stoke Park estate is used as a fishing lake. Despite its noisy proximity to the motorway it's a nice place to walk and you may see water birds that are otherwise rare in the Bristol area. Look out for reed warblers, reed bunting and Egyptian geese.
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A lovely little pond on the Stoke Park Estate, this would be a tranquil spot were it not for the nearby M32. Nevertheless, it's a pleasant spot both in terms of its scenery and its wildlife. The pond supports bird species such as reed warbler and reed bunting and is also used for angling.
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One of the highlights (of which there are many) of a truly beautiful and secluded valley.
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A picturesque fishing lake. A good place to stop for a break.
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From Raven's Rock, you get a wonderful view over Wick Quarry pond and beyond. There is a great deal of conservation happening around here, too. Limestone grassland such as that found near Raven's Rock is a nationally important habitat for many different species.
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Bitterwell Lake is a man-made lake that once belonged to the Coalpit Heath Colliery Company. The lake was used to soak pit props for the mine until the closure of the mine. In 1930, the lake was aquired by the Westerleigh Parish Council who transformed it into a place to fishing, swimming, and boating. You can find more information, here: https://bitterwelllake.co.uk/
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Going down the steep tracks are fun but make sure you know the line to take as you can get wheel caught in foot or rabbit hole.
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The lakes and ponds around Yate are rich in wildlife. At Duchess Pond, you might spot bird species like reed warblers, reed buntings, and Egyptian geese. Brimsham Park Lake is a haven for various waterfowl, including swans, ducks, coots, and moorhens. Coopers Lake and the ponds within Yate Common also provide important habitats for local wildlife.
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Brimsham Park Lake, located within Brimsham Park, offers a pleasant environment for birdwatching and fishing, alongside a children's play area. Millside Open Space Pond is also a good option, featuring play equipment and artistic wooden carvings, making it ideal for walks and outdoor activities with children.
Yes, Bitterwell Lake has a rich history, having once been used by the Coalpit Heath Colliery Company to soak pit props. It was later acquired by the Westerleigh Parish Council and transformed into a recreational site. Coopers Lake also has historical ties to celestine (spar) extraction, which ceased in 1994, leaving behind 'spar pools' as a reminder of the area's mining past.
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the area around Yate offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking and cycling routes. For hiking, explore options like the 'Ridge Wood Forest Path loop' or 'The Grapes Pub loop'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Avon Cycleway and Cotswold Edge Loop' or the 'Open Road to Horton – Yate Common loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking around Yate and Cycling around Yate guides.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at several lakes. Duchess Pond, Bitterwell Lake, Brimsham Park Lake, and Coopers Lake are all recognized fishing spots in the area.
Historically, Bitterwell Lake was used for swimming and boating. For current regulations and safety information regarding swimming or boating, it's always best to check with local authorities or the lake's management directly.
Yes, many lakes and ponds offer pleasant walking opportunities. Bitterwell Lake has a nearby walking route of approximately 2.8 miles. The ponds within Yate Common contribute to a diverse natural environment suitable for walks, and Millside Open Space features tranquil winding trails. You can find more easy walking routes in the Easy hikes around Yate guide.
For scenic views, Duchess Pond is described as a peaceful spot with picturesque scenery. The View of Wick Quarry from Raven's Rock provides a wonderful vista over Wick Quarry pond and the surrounding limestone grassland habitats.
Yate Common, also known as Westerleigh Common, is a significant 124-acre green space featuring multiple ponds, a stream, and woodlands. It's publicly accessible for activities like walking and offers a diverse natural environment to explore.
The ponds within Yate Common are part of a large, diverse green space that includes woodlands and a stream. The common is known for its local wildlife and also holds historical interest, featuring an unfinished stretch of tarmac known as the 'Road to Nowhere', which has even been used for filming.
Millside Open Space Pond is located within a 14.4-acre park in Yate, offering a tranquil escape with winding trails and lush greenery. It's unique for its play equipment and artistic wooden carvings by local sculptor Andy O'Neill, adding a creative touch to the natural setting.
Yes, Badminton Lake, while located about 6.9 miles from Yate, is primarily part of the private Badminton Estate. It is not generally considered publicly accessible for everyday recreational activities in the same way as other lakes in the area.


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