Top 5 Lakes around Verwood
Best lakes around Verwood provide access to diverse aquatic environments. Situated near the New Forest border, the town offers a range of lakes, some directly within its vicinity and others a short distance away. These locations feature distinct characteristics, from nature reserves to fishing spots, supporting various outdoor activities and wildlife observation.
Best lakes around Verwood
- The most popular lakes is Longham Lakes, an other natural area. This double lake is separated by a narrow causeway, offering a pleasant path for easy walks.
- Another must-see spot is Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve, a viewpoint and nature reserve. This area, once gravel pits, has been transformed into a thriving habitat for wildlife, particularly birds.
- Visitors also love Mockbeggar Lake, Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve, a trail and nature reserve. It is a peaceful place within the reserve, popular with bird spotters due to its abundance of birds and managed paths.
- Verwood is known for nature reserves, fishing lakes, and water ski lakes. The area offers a variety of aquatic environments to explore, catering to different interests.
- The lakes around Verwood are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 25 upvotes and 9 photos shared.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve
Highlight • Viewpoint
Summer is a lovely time of year to visit but in winter, the bird hides come into their own as many flighty folk overwinter here from colder countries further north. Lapwings, terns and oyster catchers throw Christmas parties here. There are public toilets at the north of Ivy Lake and several car parks.
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Longham Lakes
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Mockbeggar Lake, Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve
Highlight • Trail
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Ellingham Pound Lake
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Tips from the Community
Mockbeggar Lake within the Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve is a beautiful and peaceful place. The Reserve abounds in birds and is a popular place with bird spotters. There are a number of hides here such as the Lapwing Hide. Great, managed paths allow good views of both Mockbeggar Lake and Ibsley Water. Enjoy!
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A small lake north of Ellingham Lake with easy to walk banks. On a dry day, it is perfectly possible to sit on the grass and enjoy. The buildings next to the lake are the Ellingham Water Ski and Wakeboard Club.
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Longham Lakes are a double lake separated by a narrow causeway. It's managed as a wildlife reserve and fishing lakes. There is a nice path around the area, perfect for an easy walk.
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Once an area of desolate gravel pits, the landscape here has been utterly transformed by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, in partnership with two water companies. Now a series of thriving lakes with fishing, sailing, youth education and wildlife, there’s a lot going on here despite its general serenity. Summer is a lovely time of year to visit but in winter, the bird hides come into their own as many flighty folk overwinter here from colder countries further north. Lapwings, terns and oyster catchers throw Christmas parties here. There are public toilets at the north of Ivy Lake and several car parks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes near Verwood are best for birdwatching and wildlife observation?
For excellent birdwatching and wildlife, visit Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve. This area, once gravel pits, has been transformed into a thriving habitat, especially popular in winter for overwintering birds. You'll find multiple bird hides, such as the Lapwing Hide, offering great views of Mockbeggar Lake and Ibsley Water.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Verwood with activities for children?
Yes, Longham Lakes offers easy walks around its double lake, perfect for families. Additionally, Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, while not solely a lake destination, features a lake area for relaxation and picnics, alongside extensive walking trails, adventure play areas, and a miniature steam train, making it ideal for a family day out.
Where can I go fishing near Verwood?
Anglers have several excellent options. Hightown Lake is a well-known fishing lake managed by the Ringwood and District Angling Association, home to carp, bream, roach, and tench. Wedgehill Ponds in Verwood are also highly regarded for pleasure and match fishing, with a variety of species including common and mirror carp.
What kind of walking trails are available around the lakes near Verwood?
You'll find a variety of walking trails. Longham Lakes offers a pleasant path for easy walks. At Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve, there are well-maintained paths providing good views of Mockbeggar Lake and Ibsley Water. For more extensive options, explore the easy hikes around Verwood, many of which pass through woodland and near water features.
Can I do water sports like water skiing or wakeboarding near Verwood?
Yes, Ellingham Pound Lake is a hub for water skiing and wakeboarding enthusiasts. The Ellingham Water Ski and Wakeboard Club buildings are located right next to the lake.
Are there accessible trails or facilities for visitors with mobility needs?
While specific accessibility details for all lakes are not fully detailed, Wedgehill Ponds are noted to have a first lake near the car park with disabled pegs and a toilet, indicating some provisions for accessibility. For general easy walks, Longham Lakes offers a pleasant, relatively flat path.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Verwood?
Summer is a lovely time to visit for general outdoor enjoyment and picnics. However, if you are particularly interested in birdwatching, winter is an excellent time to visit Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve, as many birds overwinter there from colder countries.
Are there cycling routes near the lakes in Verwood?
Yes, the area around Verwood offers several cycling routes. Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, which includes a lake area, has extensive cycling trails. You can find various options, including easy and moderate routes, in the cycling guide for Verwood.
What facilities are available at the lakes, such as parking or toilets?
At Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve, public toilets are available at the north of Ivy Lake, and there are several car parks. Wedgehill Ponds also have a car park and a toilet facility near the first lake. Moors Valley Country Park and Forest offers extensive parking and amenities due to its nature as a larger attraction.
Are there any lesser-known or 'hidden gem' lakes worth exploring near Verwood?
While not strictly 'hidden,' Wedgehill Ponds in Verwood are described as very picturesque and are controlled by a fishing club, offering a serene experience with lovely islands on the top lake. They are a local favorite for their natural beauty and fishing opportunities.
What makes Moors Valley Country Park and Forest a good destination alongside the lakes?
Moors Valley Country Park and Forest is an award-winning attraction that complements the lake experience. It features a lake area for relaxation and picnics, but also offers extensive walking, running, and cycling trails, adventure play areas, a miniature steam train, and Go Ape treetop adventures, making it a comprehensive outdoor destination for all ages.
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