Top 20 Lakes in Northumberland
Best lakes in Northumberland are found within a region characterized by its diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to rolling hills and expansive forests. This northern English county is known for its historical significance, including Hadrian's Wall, and its status as an International Dark Sky Park. The natural environment provides a setting for various outdoor activities, with numerous lakes and reservoirs contributing to its scenic appeal.
Best lakes in Northumberland
- The most popular lakes is Harbottle Lake, an other natural feature that provides fantastic views over its serene waters. The area surrounding the lake is known for its boggy terrain, requiring visitors to stay on marked footpaths.
- Another must-see spot is Kielder Water, a lake and the largest artificial lake in the United Kingdom by capacity. Visitors can explore its vast expanse, which is surrounded by Kielder Forest, and enjoy activities like cycling, walking, and water sports.
- Visitors also love Cawfields Quarry: Lake and Visitor Facilities, a former quarry site with a picturesque lake. It is located directly on Hadrian's Wall and offers picnic areas and walking trails, with direct access to Milecastle 42.
- Northumberland is known for its large reservoirs, natural loughs, and smaller quarry lakes. These bodies of water offer a variety of experiences, from extensive watersports to tranquil birdwatching and historical exploration.
- The lakes in Northumberland are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 40 highlights and over 60 photos shared by visitors. These locations have received more than 260 upvotes, reflecting their appeal for outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Seaton Sluice Harbour
Highlight • Structure
If you are hungry, you will find various cafés and pubs in the immediate vicinity of the harbor.
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Seahouses Harbour and Beach
Highlight • Beach
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Kielder Dam and Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
It's on many routes including the 26 mile multi user Lakeside Way trail.
The dam itself was built between 1975 and 1981 and holds back the largest artificial lake in the UK by capacity.
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Cawfields Quarry: Lake and Visitor Facilities
Highlight • Rest Area
Following the quarry's closure, the site has been redeveloped into a peaceful recreation area with a picturesque lake, picnic areas, and walking trails. The area offers direct access to Milecastle 42.
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Harbottle Lake
Highlight • Natural
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Freya's Cabin (Kielder Water)
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Kielder Water
Highlight • Lake
I recommend parking at Landal Waterside as there's a shop and a bar/restaurant which is perfect to end your activity. It's worth checking times as they can close early out of the season.
The lakeside path is very well surfaced but is probably more suited to a more leisurely ride. There are lots of interesting features and the scenery is breathtaking.
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Druridge Bay Country Park
Highlight • Natural
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Walltown Quarry Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural
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Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake
Highlight • Forest
but a nice gentle stroll around a lake. easy going and just took it easy and rnjoyed the wildlife
Tip by
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Popular around Northumberland
Second City Divide — Rough Stuff Of The North
Hike the Northumberland Coast Path – Castles and coastlines
Northumberland National Park – A Walk in the Parks
National Cycle Network Route 7 – Sunderland to Inverness
Slymefoot Slide — bikepacking the Breamish and Coquet rivers
The Pennine Rally — Bikepacking Edinburgh to Manchester
Lake to Lake Walk — Windermere to Kielder across the beautiful North
St Cuthbert's Way — Hike wild moors, historic hills and heavenly coast
St Oswald's Way — Hike Northumberland's heavenly coast and wild heart
Isaac's Tea Trail — Walk the wild serenity of the North Pennines
Other adventures in Northumberland
Tips from the Community
Cawfields Quarry is a former quarry located directly on Hadrian's Wall near Haltwhistle. Constructed in the early 20th century, the quarry cut through the Roman wall, exposing the underlying dolerite rock of the Whin Sill. This geological formation formed a natural defensive line upon which the Romans built their wall. Following the quarry's closure, the site has been redeveloped into a peaceful recreation area with a picturesque lake, picnic areas, and walking trails. The area offers direct access to Milecastle 42.
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Freya’s Cabin is an enchanting wooden structure along the Lakeside Way, designed by Studio Weave in 2009 as part of Kielder’s Art & Architecture program. Constructed from 200 pressed wood panels, the cabin creates a fairytale-like forest, with integrated seating and a facade clad in shimmering gold metal—Freya’s “tears of gold.” The structure tells the fictional story of Freya and Robin, two lovers on opposite sides of the lake, trying to connect with each other through their architectural gifts. Facing Robin’s Hut, Freya’s Cabin invites cyclists and walkers to experience tranquility, wonder, and a touch of romance.
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Free to park for 72 hours. theres a pub in the carpark that serves food. we didnt try it though but a nice gentle stroll around a lake. easy going and just took it easy and rnjoyed the wildlife
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Once known as Hartley Haven, the village was renamed in the 17th century after the construction of a pier and sluice, designed to facilitate the movement of ships in the port. There are numerous pubs and cafés overlooking the harbour where you can rest tired legs.
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Lovely walk across the top of the dam and back again, easy walking
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Frequently Asked Questions
What activities can I do at Northumberland's lakes?
Northumberland's lakes offer a wide range of activities. At Kielder Water, you can enjoy cycling, walking, various water sports, and stargazing at the Kielder Observatory. Druridge Bay Country Park is ideal for paddleboarding, watersports, and bird spotting. Bolam Lake Country Park is perfect for picnics and gentle strolls, while Branton Lakes Nature Reserve is excellent for walking and birdwatching. For more active pursuits, explore the many hiking, MTB, and cycling routes available throughout the region.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Northumberland?
Yes, many lakes in Northumberland are suitable for families. Kielder Water offers activities like cycling and walking, with points of interest such as Freya's Cabin. Druridge Bay Country Park has a lake alongside a beach, perfect for picnics and watersports. Bolam Lake Country Park and Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake provide tranquil settings for easy walks. Cawfields Quarry also features a lake with picnic areas and visitor facilities.
Where can I find historical sites near Northumberland's lakes?
Several lakes in Northumberland are intertwined with history. The loughs along Hadrian's Wall, such as Broomlee Lough and Crag Lough, offer stunning backdrops for walks along the ancient Roman frontier, with sites like Housesteads Roman Fort nearby. Cawfields Quarry is located directly on Hadrian's Wall and provides access to Milecastle 42. The Nelly's Moss Lakes at Cragside are historically significant as they powered William Armstrong's pioneering hydroelectricity system.
Are there accessible paths around Northumberland's lakes?
Yes, some lakes offer accessible paths. Cawfields Quarry is noted for its good accessibility, including for wheelchairs. Kielder Water's Lakeside Way is a multi-user trail that is generally well-surfaced, making it suitable for a range of users. Branton Lakes Nature Reserve also has accessible footpaths for birdwatching and gentle walks.
What kind of wildlife can I see around Northumberland's lakes?
Northumberland's lakes are rich in wildlife. Kielder Water is a haven for red squirrels, ospreys, and water voles. Branton Lakes Nature Reserve is home to various bird species like common goldeneye, tufted duck, mallard, heron, and kingfisher, as well as mammals such as red fox, badger, and roe deer. Druridge Bay Country Park is also a good spot for bird spotting.
Can I go wild swimming in Northumberland's lakes?
While some lakes are popular for water sports, official guidance on wild swimming varies. Kielder Water offers various water sports, but specific wild swimming regulations should be checked. For safety, it's always recommended to research local regulations and conditions before attempting wild swimming in any natural body of water.
What are the best lakes for birdwatching in Northumberland?
Branton Lakes Nature Reserve is an excellent destination for birdwatching, featuring diverse habitats and a bird hide. You can spot species like common goldeneye, tufted duck, mallard, heron, and kingfisher. Druridge Bay Country Park also provides good opportunities for bird spotting, especially near its lake and coastal areas.
Are there any hidden gem lakes in Northumberland?
Branton Lakes Nature Reserve is often described as one of the Breamish Valley's best-kept secrets, offering a tranquil spot for walking and birdwatching away from the crowds. The smaller loughs along Hadrian's Wall, like Greenlee Lough and Grindon Lough, also provide serene natural beauty often overlooked by those focused solely on the wall itself.
What is the best time to visit Northumberland's lakes?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Spring brings blooming wildflower meadows at places like Branton Lakes. Summer is ideal for water sports at Kielder Water and Druridge Bay. Autumn offers beautiful foliage for walks, and winter can provide unique, crisp experiences, though some facilities might have reduced hours. Kielder Water is also renowned for stargazing year-round due to its dark skies.
Are there dog-friendly trails around Northumberland's lakes?
Many trails around Northumberland's lakes are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park or reserve rules, especially regarding lead requirements. Kielder Water's Lakeside Way is popular with dog walkers. Bolam Lake Country Park and Queen Elizabeth II Country Park also offer pleasant walks where dogs are generally welcome, provided they are kept under control.
Where can I find cafes or pubs near Northumberland's lakes?
You'll find refreshment options near several lakes. Kielder Water has facilities like shops and restaurants, especially at Landal Waterside. Queen Elizabeth II Country Park has a pub in the vicinity. For other lakes, nearby villages and towns often offer cafes and pubs, such as those near Seaton Sluice Harbour or Seahouses Harbour.
What are the most popular walking routes near Northumberland's lakes?
Popular walking routes include the 26-mile multi-user Lakeside Way around Kielder Water. Along Hadrian's Wall, the Crag Lough and Hadrian's Wall Circular trail offers majestic views. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Northumberland, which includes routes like the Simonside and Lordenshaws Trail and sections of the Hadrian's Wall Path.
Most popular routes in Northumberland
Most popular attractions in Northumberland
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