Lakes around Holt offer a variety of natural features and walking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. This region, often associated with Norfolk, is characterized by its diverse wetlands and tranquil water bodies. Visitors can explore significant natural reserves and smaller, peaceful lakes. The landscape provides opportunities for wildlife observation and family-friendly walks.
Last updated: August 21, 2026
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Another nature reserve managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust. You can do an outside tour of the reserves using public footpaths but bring your binoculars for the wildlife.
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If your luck you might bump into this fabulous warden, we walked with him for about 25min he was incredibly knowledgeable about everything to do with the wildlife that visit the reserve. We were so glad we met him and learned a lot about the reserve and some of the birds that visit.
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Good bakery and some great vegetarian options
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Tranquil and beautiful lake, full of fish and crystal clear - you can see shells at the bottom and the local geese are inquisitive.
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Lovely tranquil spot, crystal clear water, with lots of fish and shells.
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Salthouse Marshes is a fantastic place for birdwatching. It links together with Cley Marshes to the west to create a 300 hectare reserve.
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The area around Holt is rich in natural beauty, particularly known for its marshes and wetlands. You can explore vast freshwater grazing marshes at Blakeney Marshes, which are an important habitat for diverse wildlife including otters, voles, and various bird species like Brent geese and avocet. Similarly, Salthouse Marshes offers another fantastic spot for birdwatching, linking with Cley Marshes to form a large nature reserve. For a tranquil experience, Selbrigg Lake provides crystal clear water, abundant fish, and shells.
Yes, several locations are great for families. Blakeney Marshes and Salthouse Marshes are excellent for wildlife viewing and gentle walks suitable for all ages. Two Magpies Bakery and Duck Pond offers a delightful combination of a bakery with delicious treats and a duck pond, perfect for a relaxed family outing. Selbrigg Lake is also noted as a family-friendly viewpoint.
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous trails for mountain biking, running, and cycling. For mountain biking, explore routes like the 'North Norfolk - National Trust Sheringham Park & Felbrigg Hall' or 'Kelling Heath Fishing Pond – Baconsthorpe Castle loop from Holt' through the MTB Trails around Holt guide. Runners can enjoy routes such as 'Thickbottom Pit loop from Holt' or 'Holt Country Park Forest Path loop from Holt' from the Running Trails around Holt guide. Cyclists have options like 'Sheringham Promenade and Beach – Sheringham Park loop from Holt' or 'Blickling Estate Forest Trails – Blickling Hall loop from Holt' in the Cycling around Holt guide.
Absolutely. Both Blakeney Marshes and Salthouse Marshes are renowned nature reserves, particularly excellent for birdwatching. They are important habitats for wetland bird species, migratory waterfowl, and various other birds. Remember to bring your binoculars to make the most of the wildlife viewing opportunities.
For a delightful stop, Two Magpies Bakery and Duck Pond is a popular choice, offering homemade food, great vegetarian options, and a pleasant duck pond nearby. Additionally, the tips for Blakeney Marshes mention that there are plenty of places to stop for refreshments in the vicinity.
Yes, the marshes offer accessible walking paths. A footpath takes you around the perimeter of Blakeney Marshes, providing wonderful viewing spots. Similarly, public footpaths allow you to explore the outside of Salthouse Marshes. These are generally considered easy walks, suitable for enjoying nature and wildlife.
Visitors frequently highlight the tranquility and abundant wildlife. The vast expanses of marshes are appreciated for their birdwatching opportunities and peaceful walks. The crystal clear waters of Selbrigg Lake and the unique combination of a bakery and duck pond at Two Magpies Bakery are also popular attractions.
Yes, the wetlands and marshes are home to a diverse range of wildlife. At Blakeney Marshes, you might spot otters, voles, Brent geese, and avocet. The area is particularly important for migratory waterfowl. The local geese at Selbrigg Lake are also quite inquisitive.
Many of the natural areas double as excellent viewpoints. Blakeney Marshes offers wonderful viewing spots from its perimeter footpath, slightly raised over the flat fields. Salthouse Marshes is also designated as a viewpoint, as is Selbrigg Lake, providing tranquil and beautiful vistas.
While wildlife can be observed year-round, the marshes are particularly vibrant during spring and fall migrations for waterfowl and other bird species. However, no matter the season, there will always be birdlife to see at places like Blakeney Marshes.


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