Top 8 Lakes around Portsmouth
Best lakes around Portsmouth are found in and around this historic naval city on England's south coast. Situated largely on Portsea Island, the area features a mix of natural and man-made water bodies, including tidal lagoons and former defensive moats. These diverse aquatic environments offer opportunities for recreation and wildlife observation.
Best lakes around Portsmouth
- The most popular lakes is View Across Lock Lake to Eastney Marina, a viewpoint that offers views of Portsmouth's Eastney Marina. A footpath circles…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Tipner Lake Waterfront Path
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Hilsea Lagoon
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
The Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Hilsea Moat
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Canoe Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Hilsea Lines
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Lakeside North Harbour Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
View Across Lock Lake to Eastney Marina
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
View of Shut Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Portsmouth
Solent Way — A picturesque hike along the Hampshire coastline
Spectacular rides in the South East of England and London – e-bike trials by Halfords
Running Trails around Portsmouth
Road Cycling Routes around Portsmouth
Hiking around Portsmouth
Cycling around Portsmouth
MTB Trails around Portsmouth
Gravel biking around Portsmouth
Tips from the Community
Some lovely views along here. All the way to Portsmouth with the Spinaker tower.
0
0
There is a cycleway or walkway around the perimeter of Canoe Lake. Many birds come over to you wanting fed if you stand there at the waters edge. Nice to see and popular
0
0
If you look across Lock Lake, you'll be treated to views of Portsmouth's Eastney Marina. A footpath circles the lake, offering charming scenes of boats gently bobbing on the water.
2
1
Canoe Lake is located on Southsea Seafront just to the east of South Parade Pier and dates from 1886. The Canoe Lake area has a wide variety of landscapes ranging from the grassland area close to the lake, to the formal planting of the Rose Gardens within the remains of Lumps Fort.
2
0
Well laid path with lots of signage. A nice easy walk.
0
0
Not really a lake at all but a part of Portsmouth Harbour and Ports Creek, Tipner Lake came into being after a parcel of reclaimed land was built on the north side of Horsea Island. It's a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a wetland conservation zone, thriving with marine and birdlife. There's a traffic-free cycle and footpath along the lake's eastern side and here, next to the Mountbatten Leisure Centre, you can enjoy views across the entirety of the lake. It's tidal, and wrecks are revealed at low tide.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes for visitors around Portsmouth?
Visitors frequently enjoy the View Across Lock Lake to Eastney Marina, which offers charming scenes of boats and a footpath circling the lake. Another popular spot is Tipner Lake Waterfront Path, known for its wildlife and traffic-free cycle and footpath.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Portsmouth area?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Canoe Lake in Southsea is particularly popular, offering pedal boat rentals, a large children's play area, and opportunities to feed swans. Hilsea Lagoon also features a playing field and walking paths suitable for families.
Which lakes are best for wildlife watching near Portsmouth?
For wildlife enthusiasts, The Lake is an excellent spot, serving as a roosting and feeding ground for wildfowl and wading birds. Tipner Lake Waterfront Path is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a wetland conservation zone, rich in marine and birdlife.
Can I find walking or cycling paths around the lakes?
Absolutely. The Tipner Lake Waterfront Path offers a traffic-free cycle and footpath. Similarly, Hilsea Lagoon has paths suitable for walking and cycling. A footpath also circles Lock Lake, providing pleasant views.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest near the lakes?
Near Canoe Lake, you can find the remains of Lumps Fort, now home to the peaceful Southsea Rose Gardens and a Model Village. The nearby Natural History Museum at Cumberland House also offers free entry. Hilsea Lagoon itself is a former seawater moat that was once part of local barracks' defenses.
What kind of activities can I do at Canoe Lake?
At Canoe Lake, you can rent pedal boats, enjoy the large children's play area with a zip wire, sand pit, and water features, or simply observe the swans, as it's known as a 'swan's nursery.' There's also a cafe nearby.
Are there any lakes where I can see shipwrecks?
Yes, at Tipner Lake Waterfront Path, which is tidal, shipwrecks are revealed at low tide, offering a unique sight along the eastern side's cycle and footpath.
What outdoor activities are available near Portsmouth's lakes?
Beyond the lakes themselves, the Portsmouth area offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hikes like the Farlington Marshes Nature Reserve loop, or longer routes around the city. Cycling is also popular, with routes such as the Portsea and Hayling Islands loop. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Portsmouth or cycling routes around Portsmouth guides.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the lakes?
Yes, near Canoe Lake, there is a cafe that often sells wheat grain for feeding the swans. Other lakes are often close to urban areas with various dining options.
Which lakes are good for bird watching?
The Lake is specifically highlighted as a beautiful wildlife watching spot for wildfowl and wading birds. View of Shut Lake also offers opportunities to see many birds, especially at high and low tide.
What can I expect at Hilsea Lagoon?
Hilsea Lagoon is a seawater moat that has been repurposed as a leisure lake. It features walking and cycling paths, a lido, and an adjacent playing field, making it a versatile spot for recreation.
Are there any lakes with good views of the wider Portsmouth area?
From View of Shut Lake, you can enjoy lovely views all the way to Portsmouth, including the Spinnaker Tower. Lock Lake also provides charming views of Eastney Marina.
Most popular routes around Portsmouth
Most popular attractions around Portsmouth
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Portsmouth? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
