Earlswood Lakes
Serene reservoirs offering tranquil walks, abundant wildlife, and beautiful reflections, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere, fewer crowds
Earlswood Lakes
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Serene reservoirs offering tranquil walks, abundant wildlife, and beautiful reflections, perfect for nature lovers and families.
"Absolutely beautiful place. very calming and nature is unreal."
🚶♀️ Pram & Dog Friendly
Mostly flat, pram-friendly paths make it great for families. Dogs are welcome too!
🦆 Feed the Wildlife
Bring duck food (£1 per bag) for a fun interaction with the local waterfowl.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Engine Pool Views
Overlooking Engine Pool
Capture breathtaking reflections and wildlife, especially during sunrise or golden hour.
Wildlife Spotting
Observe diverse bird species, friendly squirrels, and potentially aggressive geese. Bring duck food for an interactive experience.
Circular Walking Paths
Enjoy well-maintained, mostly flat paths perfect for leisurely strolls or family walks.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Peaceful Walks
Parking and Facilities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Pram & Dog Friendly
Mostly flat, pram-friendly paths make it great for families. Dogs are welcome too! +1
🦆 Feed the Wildlife
Bring duck food (£1 per bag) for a fun interaction with the local waterfowl.
☕ Nearby Cafes
Shakespeare's Cafe and Wave Cafe Catering are nearby for refreshments.
⚠️ Watch for Glass
Be cautious of smashed glass shards on sandy areas, especially with children or dogs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Pram & Dog Friendly
Mostly flat, pram-friendly paths make it great for families. Dogs are welcome too! +1
🦆 Feed the Wildlife
Bring duck food (£1 per bag) for a fun interaction with the local waterfowl.
☕ Nearby Cafes
Shakespeare's Cafe and Wave Cafe Catering are nearby for refreshments.
⚠️ Watch for Glass
Be cautious of smashed glass shards on sandy areas, especially with children or dogs.
🚗 Limited Free Parking
Parking is free but very limited; arrive early to secure a spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Earlswood Lakes for its beautiful, calming atmosphere and abundant wildlife, making it a lovely spot for year-round walks. However, some note issues with litter and broken glass in certain areas, and the limited parking and lack of on-site facilities can be a drawback for some.
"Absolutely beautiful place. very calming and nature is unreal. you can see lots of different bird types, friendly squirrels and wild fruit.
Definitely recommend giving it a go"
Samra Hot
"These lakes are lovely all year round.
You can walk around the perimeter within an hour along the well maintained footpaths.
Ducks etc are there to feed.
Angling is allowed, you may need a permit.
My photos and video was taken overlooking Engine Pool, one of 3 pools on a gorgeous sunny Bank Holiday.
There are a couple of pubs nearby, The Red Lion on Lady Lane or Hickory's Smokehouse, The Common."
Steve Woodhull
"Pretty lakes and walk. But sandy "beach" area around the lake is poorly maintained and full of smashed glass shards. Shame the people using the area can't treat it with respect and take their litter with them. Wouldn't recommend with children or dogs who could be injured. No facilities. Parking for about 15 cars max"
Nicola Miller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Earlswood Lakes is accessible by car with free parking available, though it's limited. Public transport options include buses and trains into the town, with a short walk to the lakes.
Yes, there is a small, free car park. It can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended.
Cycling is a great way to reach Earlswood Lakes, with paths around the reservoirs suitable for a leisurely ride.
Absolutely! Earlswood Lakes offers several circular walking routes around the reservoirs, with some extending into nearby woods and along the canal.
While direct bus routes might be limited, you can take a train to a nearby station and then enjoy a walk or short bus ride to the lakes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Earlswood Lakes is free. Parking is also free, though it is limited.
Earlswood Lakes is an open natural space and is accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No booking is required as Earlswood Lakes is a public park and free to enter.
Angling is allowed at Earlswood Lakes, but you may need a permit. It's advisable to check local regulations before fishing.
Yes, Earlswood Lakes is a great spot for group outings, but be mindful of the limited parking and the need to respect the natural environment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can spot various bird species, including ducks and geese, as well as squirrels. Keep an eye out for other local fauna.
The main circular paths around the lakes are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
There are toilets available at the start of some paths. However, there are no cafes or shops directly on the lake perimeter.
Yes, Earlswood Lakes is a fantastic spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset, offering beautiful reflections and natural scenery.
Be aware of potentially aggressive geese and watch out for smashed glass shards in sandy areas, particularly if you have children or pets.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no cafes directly on the lake paths. However, Shakespeare's Cafe and Wave Cafe Catering are located nearby at the Earlswood Craft Centre.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are several spots around the lakes where you can enjoy a meal outdoors. Remember to take all your litter with you.
Nearby pubs include The Red Lion on Lady Lane and Hickory's Smokehouse on The Common.
You can purchase duck food for £1 per bag at the lakes for feeding the waterfowl.
Yes, the Earlswood Craft Centre, a short walk from the lakes, has cafes like Wave Cafe Catering offering food and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and golden hour offer the most dramatic light for photography, creating beautiful reflections on the water.
Popular subjects include the serene lake reflections, diverse birdlife, and the surrounding natural landscapes.
While some videos show drone footage, it's always best to check local regulations regarding drone usage in public spaces to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography.
Yes, the lakes are home to various birds and animals, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While there are no playgrounds directly on the lake, the open spaces provide room for kids to run around and play. The nearby Earlswood Craft Centre offers cafes for a treat after your walk. Be mindful of the limited parking and the potential for smashed glass in sandy areas, so keep a close eye on little ones.
+1🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Nature Lovers
You can enjoy leisurely strolls around the reservoirs, observe the diverse birdlife, and immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. Weekday visits are ideal for avoiding crowds and maximizing the sense of serenity.
🐶 Dog Owners
Ensure your dog is kept under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors. Be aware of the potential for smashed glass in sandy areas, and always clean up after your pet.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Earlswood Lakes
+1Many visitors enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, noting the calming effect of the water and the surrounding greenery. It's a place where you can easily spend an hour or two strolling, observing wildlife, or simply enjoying the tranquility. The accessibility of the paths makes it a favored spot for families and dog walkers alike.
While the lakes themselves are the main draw, the surrounding areas also offer points of interest. Nearby, you can find the Earlswood Craft Centre, which houses cafes and shops, providing a convenient place to refuel or browse after your walk.
+1Wildlife Encounters at Earlswood Lakes
While the wildlife is generally a highlight, it's worth noting that some visitors have encountered aggressive geese, so caution is advised. The presence of wild fruit also adds to the natural appeal of the area. For those interested in angling, permits may be required, so it's best to check local regulations beforehand.
Observing the wildlife is a key part of the Earlswood Lakes experience. Whether you're feeding the ducks or simply watching the birds glide across the water, the natural inhabitants add a vibrant dimension to the visit.
Photography Opportunities
Beyond the reflections, the diverse birdlife and the lush natural surroundings provide ample subjects for both landscape and wildlife photography. Drone footage has also captured the expansive beauty of the reservoirs from unique aerial perspectives.
For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the 'golden hour' – the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset – when the light is soft and warm, enhancing the natural colors and creating a magical atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit