Top 3 Lakes around Hardwick
Lakes around Hardwick feature a landscape shaped by significant reservoirs, offering various outdoor activities. These water bodies are often integrated with walking and cycling paths, providing accessible routes through the local countryside. The area is characterized by its man-made lakes, which serve both practical and recreational purposes. Visitors can find well-maintained facilities and opportunities for observing local wildlife.
Best lakes around Hardwick
- The most popular lakes is Pitsford Water, a lake that features a cafe, public toilets, and bike…
Last updated: June 14, 2026
Pitsford Water
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Pitsford Dam
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Sywell Reservoir
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Viewpoint and Birdwatching at Summer Leys Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
A good hike on a well maintained wide gravel path, ideal for mums with strollers and wheelchairs. A large carpark and coffee shop make it pleasure to access.
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Pitsford Dam is an expansive reservoir surrounded by countryside. It was completed in the 1950s and serves as a vital water supply for the region. There are walking and cycling paths surrounding the lake and lots of beautiful landscaps and wildlife.
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Excellent viewpoint across the water and high chances of spotting some local birdlife such as little egret, cormorant and heron.
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Wear water proofs and boots
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Frequently Asked Questions
What activities can I do at Pitsford Water?
Pitsford Water offers a variety of activities including walking, cycling, and picnicking. There's a dedicated cycle path around the water and open grassed areas perfect for relaxing. You can also find a children's play area and an accessible garden. For more information, visit the Pitsford Water highlight page.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Hardwick?
Yes, several lakes around Hardwick are great for families. Pitsford Water features a children's play area and picnic spots. Sywell Reservoir has a well-maintained gravel path suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, along with a coffee shop. Both are listed as family-friendly destinations.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near the lakes?
At Sywell Reservoir Bird Hide, you can observe various waterbirds like Canada Geese, Ring-necked Pheasants, and Great Crested Grebes. The areas around Pitsford Dam also offer opportunities to see local wildlife amidst beautiful landscapes.
Are there accessible trails for wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes, Pitsford Water has an accessible garden and wide paths. Sywell Reservoir is particularly noted for its well-maintained, wide gravel path, making it ideal for strollers and wheelchairs.
Where can I go for a scenic view of the lakes?
For expansive views, head to the View of Pitsford Reservoir, where you can get close to the Pitsford Water dam. The general area around Pitsford Dam also offers beautiful landscapes.
What facilities are available at the lakes?
At Pitsford Water, you'll find a cafe, public toilets, and a bike shop offering bike hire. Sywell Reservoir also has a large car park and a coffee shop.
Are there cycling routes near the lakes around Hardwick?
Yes, there are several cycling opportunities. Pitsford Water has a dedicated cycle path. For more extensive rides, explore the Gravel biking around Hardwick guide or the MTB Trails around Hardwick guide, which include routes like the 'View of Pitsford Reservoir – View of Pitsford Water loop'.
Can I go running near the lakes?
Absolutely. The paths around Pitsford Water and Pitsford Dam are suitable for running. You can also find more dedicated running trails in the Running Trails around Hardwick guide.
What are the parking options at the lakes?
Both Pitsford Water and Sywell Reservoir offer large car parks for visitors.
What is Pitsford Dam and what can I do there?
Pitsford Dam is an expansive reservoir completed in the 1950s, serving as a vital water supply. It's surrounded by countryside with walking and cycling paths, offering beautiful landscapes and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Are there any bird hides for birdwatching?
Yes, the Sywell Reservoir Bird Hide is an excellent spot to observe local waterbird life, including various species of geese, pheasants, and grebes.
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