Top 5 Lakes around Westbury
Best lakes around Westbury offer a variety of natural and man-made water features, often set within historical estates and diverse landscapes. The area provides opportunities to explore significant gardens and reservoirs. These locations are characterized by their integration into the local environment, providing habitats for wildlife and points of interest for visitors. The region's geography includes rolling fields and woodlands, contributing to the scenic appeal of its water bodies.
Best lakes around Westbury
- The most popular lakes is Foxcote Reservoir…
Last updated: July 4, 2026
Palladian Bridge at Stowe
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Octagon Lake Cascade and Artificial Ruins
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Foxcote Reservoir
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Octagon Lake
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Lamport Manor Rock and Water Garden
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Lying in a rolling Buckinghamshire landscape of arable fields, pasture and woodland, Foxcote Reservoir is the kind of place that rewards patient visitors. Created in 1956 by damming a small tributary of the River Great Ouse, this site has become important for the numbers of wintering waterfowl, especially wigeon and coot. https://www.bbowt.org.uk/nature-reserves/foxcote-reservoir
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Public school-boy favourite for stone-skipping and a spot of fishing on the sly. We had a picnic on the bank - it's a lovely place.
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Beautiful lake at the bottom of Stowe Gardens by the main entrance. There is accessible paths all the way around too.
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One of the first areas of the garden that visitors may encounter is the Octagon Lake and the features associated with it. The lake was originally designed as a formal octagonal pool, with sharp corners, as part of the seventeenth century formal gardens. Over the years, the shape of the pond was softened, gradually harmonising it within Stowe's increasingly naturalistic landscape. Source: Wikipedia
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A very prominent Palladian bridge in the park, it is one of the highlights of this property.
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Stowe can trap you in a time warp and you can walk these grounds for hours. Make sure to begin early, it never disappoints.
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Benton Seeley's 1744 Guidebook opens with a description of the Octagon Lake and then highlights this garden structure as "An Artificial Piece of Ruin cover'd with Ever-greens, under which lie the Statues of two River Gods; a beautiful Cascade of three Sheets of Water falls from the Octagon into a large Lake of 10 Acres." The Octagon Lake Cascade or Artificial Ruins Bevington notes that three arches for a cascade were built in 1728-29 and that the artificial ruins decorating them were added by 1738, probably from a design by William Kent. Kent's Shell Bridge in the Elysian Fields, though far less rustic in appearance, has a similar design and serves a similar purpose as a dam and cascade between the Alder River and the River Styx. http://faculty.bsc.edu/jtatter/cascade.html
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes and water features around Westbury?
Visitors frequently enjoy the historical and natural beauty of Octagon Lake and the architectural marvel of the Palladian Bridge at Stowe. For wildlife enthusiasts, Foxcote Reservoir is a significant spot for wintering waterfowl.
Are there family-friendly lakes and activities in the Westbury area?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Octagon Lake and the Palladian Bridge at Stowe are popular for walks and picnics. Fairwood Lakes Holiday Park offers a dedicated family experience with luxury lodges, a playground, and a kids' club. Westbury Ponds are also suitable for family strolls and wildlife spotting.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Westbury?
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including easy to moderate loops, by exploring the Cycling around Westbury guide. For those who prefer running, there are several Running Trails around Westbury. Hiking is also popular, with options like 'The Path of the Brave' at Stowe, detailed in the Easy hikes around Westbury guide.
Are there historical sites or unique architectural features near the lakes?
Absolutely. The Palladian Bridge at Stowe, completed in 1738, is a notable feature within the Stowe gardens. You can also explore the Octagon Lake Cascade and Artificial Ruins, which date back to the 18th century. The 19th-century Lamport Manor Rock and Water Garden also offers a unique historical landscape.
Which lakes are good for fishing in the Westbury area?
Anglers have several excellent choices. Eden Vale (Westbury Sailing Lake) is well-stocked with carp, tench, roach, and perch, managed by the Warminster and District Angling Club. White Horse Country Park Lake also caters to anglers of all skill levels. Fairwood Lakes Holiday Park provides on-site fishing opportunities for its guests.
Can I go sailing on any of the lakes near Westbury?
Yes, both Westbury Ponds (specifically Station Pond) and Eden Vale (Westbury Sailing Lake) are used by local sailing clubs, offering opportunities for sailing enthusiasts.
Are there accessible paths for wheelchairs around any of the lakes?
Yes, Octagon Lake at Stowe is noted for having accessible paths all the way around, making it suitable for wheelchair users.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?
Westbury Ponds are a haven for diverse wetland and other bird species, including Tufted Duck, Pochard, Kingfishers, and Little Grebes. Foxcote Reservoir is particularly important for wintering waterfowl like wigeon and coot.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Westbury?
The lakes offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the gardens and warmer weather activities. Autumn provides stunning foliage, especially at places like Stourhead. Winter can be excellent for birdwatching at spots like Foxcote Reservoir, where wintering waterfowl gather.
Are there places to eat or drink near the lakes?
While specific cafes or pubs directly adjacent to every lake are not listed, the general Westbury area offers various options. Fairwood Lakes Holiday Park has its own restaurant and bar for guests. For other locations, you'll find cafes and pubs within Westbury town itself, a short drive from most lake destinations.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Westbury?
Visitors particularly appreciate the serene beauty and historical significance of places like Stowe, where they can spend hours walking the grounds. The accessible paths around Octagon Lake make it a lovely spot for picnics, and the diverse wildlife at locations like Westbury Ponds and Foxcote Reservoir is a major draw for nature lovers.
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