Best lakes around Draughton offer various natural and man-made water features for exploration, providing opportunities to engage with reservoirs and other natural water bodies. The area presents diverse landscapes, from open water to surrounding natural habitats, often integrated with local parklands and walking routes. These locations provide settings for outdoor activities and natural observation.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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Pitsford Dam is an expansive reservoir surrounded by countryside. It was completed in the 1950s and serves as a vital water supply for the region. There are walking and cycling paths surrounding the lake and lots of beautiful landscaps and wildlife.
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Ravensthorpe reservoir and weir was built in 1890 to supply water to Northampton. Today you can wander around the beautiful water source and enjoy bird-watching, fishing, or just an opportunity to get some fresh air.
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Idyllic spot for a picnic as well as a regular hang-out spot for some of our feathered friends such as geese and swans, and some rarer species such as the ring-necked duck and common crane.
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There is a cafe, public toilets and bike shop providing bike hire at the top of the main carpark, with open grassed areas (perfect for picnics) leading down to a childrens play area and then the main walking/cycle path around the water. To the left of the grass beside the other footpath is an accessible garden with raised beds.
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Yes, several lakes near Draughton are well-suited for families. Pitsford Water offers open grassed areas for picnics and a children's play area. Similarly, Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park provides trails, a gnome trail, and a scavenger hunt, alongside a visitor centre. Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir and Lakeside Picnic and Birdwatching Spot are also family-friendly, offering opportunities for bird-watching and picnics.
At Pitsford Water, you'll find a cafe, public toilets, and a bike shop offering bike hire. There are also open grassed areas for picnics and a children's play area. Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park features a restaurant and a visitor centre.
Yes, Pitsford Water is noted as wheelchair accessible, featuring an accessible garden with raised beds near the main walking/cycle path.
The lakes and surrounding areas offer various activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, fishing, and bird-watching. For specific routes, consider exploring the nearby hiking trails, such as the moderate 'Little waterfall – Brampton Valley Way loop from Draughton'. Cycling enthusiasts can find routes like the 'Oxendon Tunnel – Great Oxendon Tunnel loop from Kelmarsh' in the cycling guide.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park allows cycling around the lake. Pitsford Water also has a main walking/cycle path and a bike hire facility. You can find more cycling options in the Cycling around Draughton guide.
Yes, bird-watching is a notable activity. Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir is a good spot for bird-watching. Additionally, the Lakeside Picnic and Birdwatching Spot is known for various feathered friends, including geese, swans, and rarer species like the ring-necked duck and common crane.
The best time to visit generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and picnics, with longer daylight hours. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer tranquil, crisp walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
For a quieter experience, consider visiting Lakeside Picnic and Birdwatching Spot, which is described as an idyllic spot for picnics and observing wildlife. Naseby Reservoir, accessible via a rough track, also offers a more secluded feel.
Yes, Pitsford Water has a cafe, and Pitsford Water at Brixworth Country Park features a restaurant, providing options for refreshments and meals during your visit.
Yes, there are various hiking trails. For example, near Draughton, you can find routes like the 'Little waterfall – Maidwell Church loop from Draughton' or the more challenging 'Kelmarsh Station – Oxendon Tunnel loop from Draughton'. More details can be found in the Hiking around Draughton guide.
The lakes around Draughton offer diverse natural features. You can expect open water, surrounding natural habitats, and viewpoints. Ravensthorpe Reservoir Weir features a man-made weir, while the Lakeside Picnic and Birdwatching Spot provides opportunities to observe various bird species in a tranquil setting.


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