Top 4 Lakes around Puriton
Best lakes around Puriton are found in a region characterized by its rural setting and proximity to the Somerset Levels, an area known for its wetlands and diverse natural environment. Puriton itself is a village in Somerset, England, situated amidst farmland. While prominent lakes are not directly within the village, the surrounding area offers access to various natural and man-made water bodies. This region provides opportunities to explore wildlife habitats and enjoy outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Puriton
- The most…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail
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Apex Leisure and Wildlife Park Walk
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Bridgwater Bay National Nature Reserve
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Hawkridge Reservoir
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Hawkridge Reservoir is a reservoir near Spaxton, Somerset, England. The inflow is from several streams in the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, including Peart Water, which continues below the reservoir in a northeast direction to Spaxton, where it enters the Ashford Reservoir
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Apex Leisure and Wildlife Park is an urban park and wildlife centre in Highbridge, Somerset, England. The park was created on the site of a former clay pit and brickwork manufacturing site and provides a link between Highbridge and Burnham-on-Sea. There are various facilities including an outdoor gym, a lake and birdlife.
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Great walk for all ability gravel path so not muddy walk can be made bigger as can walk down to the sea ,plenty of parking
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This vast reservoir was built in the early 1960s and is managed by Wessex Water. It lies on the very edge of the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has become home to wildfowl and amphibians since its construction. Popular with anglers hoping to catch rainbow trout, the reservoir is a lovely place to sit and have a picnic or simply admire its picturesque nature.
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Really enjoyed this tranquil bike path. Plenty of places to stop, have a break and check out the wildlife. Everyone seemed so happy to be there; definitely a good place for a family ride.
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The Bridgwater Bay National Nature Reserve is a large area encompassing the Steart Peninsula and Steart Marshes. Managed by Natural England, it’s a vital habitat for overwintering birds and has extensive mudflats that reach out into the Bristol Channel. While the marshes are fascinating to walk around, looking out into the bay is a phenomenal sight when the tide is out and the mud is covered in birds. Around 190 species of bird have been recorded here, so bring binoculars. This area has one of the largest tidal ranges in the world and the dangers of fast, incoming waves should not be underestimated.
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A fantastic gravel trail across the Avalon marshes. Quiet in the morning but can get busy with walkers on a sunny afternoon. It’s part of national cycle route 3 so cyclists are more than entitled to use it, but bear in mind that it is a shared path and most people come here to enjoy the nature in peace. There are lots of bird watchers and if you come just before dusk you’ll see some amazing starling murmurations. Good surface of fine, hard packed gravel with a few non-threatening potholes.
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Shapwick Heath nature reserve, gets pretty busy with walkers and bird watchers. Excellent compacted gravel surface with just a few puddles, and plenty of places to sit on a bench and watch the aerial display.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What nature reserves with lakes are near Puriton?
You can explore Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail, known for its gravel paths and abundant birdlife, or visit Bridgwater Bay National Nature Reserve, which encompasses the Steart Peninsula and its extensive mudflats, vital for overwintering birds. Both offer unique natural experiences.
What kind of wildlife can I see around the lakes near Puriton?
The region is rich in wildlife, especially birds. At Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail, you'll find many bird watchers and, if you visit before dusk, you might witness amazing starling murmurations. Bridgwater Bay National Nature Reserve is a vital habitat for overwintering birds, with around 190 species recorded. Hawkridge Reservoir is also home to wildfowl and amphibians.
Are there family-friendly lake areas near Puriton?
Yes, Apex Leisure and Wildlife Park is an excellent choice, offering various facilities including an outdoor gym, a lake, and birdlife, with great gravel paths suitable for all abilities. Hawkridge Reservoir is also considered family-friendly, providing a lovely spot for a picnic.
Are there accessible lake walks for wheelchairs or pushchairs?
Absolutely. Apex Leisure and Wildlife Park features gravel paths that are suitable for all abilities, making it wheelchair accessible. This allows everyone to enjoy the lake and wildlife.
Can I go hiking or walking near these lakes?
Yes, there are numerous opportunities for walking. The Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail offers fantastic gravel paths for walkers. For more extensive options, you can explore various hiking routes in the area, such as easy loops around King's Sedgemoor Drain. Find more details on the Hiking around Puriton guide.
What cycling opportunities are there around the lakes?
The Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve Trail is part of National Cycle Route 3, offering a good surface of fine, hard-packed gravel. You can also find various touring and road cycling routes in the wider Puriton area. Check out the Cycling around Puriton guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Puriton guide for more options.
What is Hawkridge Reservoir like for visitors?
Hawkridge Reservoir is a picturesque spot located on the edge of the Quantock Hills. It's popular with anglers hoping to catch rainbow trout and is a lovely place for a picnic or simply to admire the natural beauty. It has become home to various wildfowl and amphibians since its construction.
Are dogs allowed at the lake areas near Puriton?
While specific dog policies vary by location, many outdoor areas in the Somerset Levels are dog-friendly, especially on leads. For instance, Apex Leisure and Wildlife Park is generally welcoming to dogs on leads. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding dogs, especially in nature reserves to protect wildlife.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near Puriton?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. For birdwatching, early mornings or late afternoons, especially before dusk for starling murmurations at Shapwick Heath, are ideal. The Somerset Levels are beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is great for picnics and enjoying the outdoors, while winter can provide unique views of overwintering birds.
Where can I find parking for these lake areas?
Parking is generally available at the main access points for these locations. For example, Apex Leisure and Wildlife Park has plenty of parking. While specific details for every location aren't listed, most popular nature reserves and parks in the area provide designated parking facilities.
Are there any urban parks with lakes near Puriton?
Yes, Apex Leisure and Wildlife Park in Highbridge is an urban park created on the site of a former clay pit. It features a lake, an outdoor gym, and is a great spot for wildlife observation, providing a link between Highbridge and Burnham-on-Sea.
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