Best lakes around Newbold Verdon offer diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities within the Leicestershire countryside. This region features a landscape transformed from former industrial sites into vibrant natural habitats and extensive woodlands. Visitors can explore a variety of lake environments, from restored opencast mines to expansive natural pools. The area provides numerous trails for walking, cycling, and wildlife observation.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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Sand martins return annually to an artificial nesting wall at Bagworth Heath Wood Country Park in Leicestershire, usually arriving in March to nest through the summer. The site, featuring a specialized "Sandmartin Pool," is maintained by rangers and volunteers who refresh the sandy bank annually, with hundreds of chicks raised there.
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A great place for a simple circuit of the lake or to hook up to other nearby walks. Owned by the forestry commission, the car parks are no longer free . Card or payment by app only (cash not accepted).
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Sence Valley Forest Park is a significant area of woodland planting which has transformed the former opencast coal mining site, in north-west Leicestershire, into a haven for wildlife and visitors. The coal mine closed in 1996 and only two years later 98,000 Corsican pine, larch and poplars trees were planted. Another 100 acres of land was bought in 2018 and this was planted with a range of coniferous and broadleaved trees, as a sustainable forest for the future.
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The main path through the nature reserve (i.e. the one marked on komoot) takes you nowhere near the ponds or bird hide. You have to take the path off to the right near the Severn Trent Water station.
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A relatively new nature reserve that is being taken back by nature. The waters meander in a natural way, the land is allowed to flood in heavy rain, and as you walk through you’ll feel like you’re leaving the rest of the world behind. Loads of birdwatching - it's a great site for Warblers, Whitethroat, Rereed and Sedge warbler. Also Grey Partridge, Little Ringed Plover, Snipe, Little Owl and Kingfisher have been spotted too. Add to this birds of prey including Osprey, Merlin, Buzzard, Kestrel and Peregrine have all been seen, along with the more locally rare marsh harrier, hen harrier and Montagu’s harrier. They've even had a red-footed falcon! Best pack your binoculars and start working through that list.
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Arrive early at Bradgate Park to enjoy it at its best. It's a lovely ride, but as a very popular attraction, the park can get very busy with pedestrians later in the day. Cyclists do not have right of way, and you may be asked to dismount on very busy days. Stick to the tarmac as cycling off-route can attract heavy fines.
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The region around Newbold Verdon offers several notable lake-centered attractions. Popular choices include Bradgate Park Deer Park, known for its deer and historical significance, and Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park, a vibrant natural habitat transformed from a former opencast coal mine. Other favorites include Bosworth Water Park for family activities and Watermead Country Park with its extensive network of lakes.
Yes, several lakes are excellent for families. Bosworth Water Park is a popular choice, offering a man-made beach, watersports, and playgrounds. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park features an 'All Ability Trail' and abundant wildlife, making it great for all ages. Market Bosworth Country Park also provides children's play areas and picnic spots.
Sence Valley Forest Park is particularly noted for its accessibility, featuring an 'All Ability Trail' around Horseshoe Lake. This trail is designed to be suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, allowing everyone to enjoy the natural surroundings.
The lakes near Newbold Verdon are rich in wildlife. Sence Valley Forest Park boasts over 150 bird species, an artificial sand martin nesting wall, and sightings of otters and water voles. Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve is an exceptional spot for birdwatching, with various warblers, waders, and birds of prey. Bradgate Park Deer Park is famous for its resident deer population, while Swithland Reservoir is known for waterbirds, peregrine falcons, and mandarin ducks.
Bosworth Water Park offers a wide array of watersports, including kayaking, windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, pedalos, and rowing boats. It also features a man-made beach for swimming. For a unique experience, Stoney Cove National Dive Centre, a flooded quarry, provides an underwater adventure park for divers and a heated pool for training.
Many lakes offer excellent walking opportunities. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park has short walks around the lake and through woodlands. Market Bosworth Country Park provides serene landscapes with well-marked walking trails. Watermead Country Park also features extensive paths for walking and cycling. For more detailed routes, you can explore the easy hikes around Newbold Verdon.
Many of the parks and reserves are dog-friendly, though specific rules may apply (e.g., dogs on leads, designated areas). Watermead Country Park is popular for dog walking. Always check local signage or park websites for the most current regulations regarding pets.
Yes, the area blends nature with history. Bradgate Park Deer Park is a significant historical site. Market Bosworth Country Park is adjacent to the Battle of Bosworth Visitor Centre, offering a glimpse into local history. Swithland Reservoir is notable for the heritage steam trains that traverse viaducts across it, adding a picturesque historical element.
Most major lake parks, such as Sence Valley Forest Park and Market Bosworth Country Park, have dedicated parking facilities. Parking fees are generally in effect and may require card payment or payment via an app, as cash is often not accepted. Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve offers free entry and parking.
Beyond walking, the area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including easy to moderate options, as detailed in the cycling guide for Newbold Verdon. Running enthusiasts can explore various trails, from easy to difficult, by checking the running trails around Newbold Verdon. Many parks also offer birdwatching, and Bosworth Water Park provides a range of watersports.
Yes, several locations offer amenities. Sence Valley Forest Park has a cafe and toilets. Bosworth Water Park also provides an on-site cafe. Stoney Cove National Dive Centre features a pub/cafe above the surface. Many nearby villages and towns also offer pubs and cafes for refreshments.
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers unique experiences. Late spring is particularly rewarding for birdwatching at reserves like Kelham Bridge, as migrant birds are abundant. Summer is ideal for watersports at Bosworth Water Park. Autumn brings beautiful foliage for walks, and winter offers tranquil, less crowded experiences, especially for birdwatching at places like Swithland Reservoir.


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