Best lakes around High Roothing are found within the Roding Valley area and the wider Essex county. This region offers various natural water bodies, many of which are popular for angling. The landscape features a mix of rural countryside, historical sites, and managed fisheries. These lakes provide opportunities for outdoor activities and appreciating the local environment.
Last updated: August 8, 2026
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These ponds were part of the formal gardens of Little Easton Manor. They are still part of the estate, currently used as fishing lakes. The pond at the road is called Horse Pond with the larger pond to the north called Great Pond.
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Need to pay for car entrance at the National Trust forest. Check opening times as they can stop letting cars in after a certain time.
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Bought a coffee from the National Trust cafe and sat near to the lake in Hatfield Forrest.
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This scenic fishing lake sits on the western edge of Hatfield Forest. You can enjoy the tranquil countryside setting from a bench while watching fishermen reel in their dinner. The lake holds a poignant history as the site of the tragic Korean Air Cargo Flight crash in 1999, a sombre reminder amidst its serene surroundings.
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Hatfield Forest is an ancient royal hunting forest, and considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval forests in the world. In the past, deer were kept in the forest for hunting. Today you'll find deer aplenty still, though no longer pursued for the same reason. The forest boasts ancient trees, over 3,500 species of fungi, rare insects and a diverse array of birdlife. There's also a beautiful lake, café and river that meanders through.
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Pretty Essex village centred around the village pond. A lovely spot to stop for a breather or refreshment.
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Quaint village, site of a former royal castle, now just the earthworks left (sadly mostly obscured from view and on private property).
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Hatfield Forest is a 403.2 hectare biological Site of Special Scientific Interest in Essex, three miles east of Bishop's Stortford. It is also a National Nature Reserve and a Nature Conservation Review site. It is owned and managed by the National Trust. A medieval warren in the forest is a Scheduled Monument. Hatfield is the only remaining intact Royal Hunting Forest and dates from the time of the Norman kings. Other parts of the once extensive Forest of Essex include Epping Forest to the southwest, Hainault Forest to the south and Writtle Forest to the east. Hatfield Forest was established as a Royal hunting forest in the late eleventh century, following the introduction of fallow deer and Forest Laws were imposed on areas by the king. Deer hunting and chasing was a popular sport for Norman kings and lords and the word ‘forest’ strictly means place of deer rather than of trees. In the case of Hatfield the area under Forest Law consisted of woodlands with plains.
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The Roding Valley area and wider Essex county offer several excellent fishing lakes. Lakes Near Little Easton Church are actively used for fishing. Other popular spots include Roding Valley Lake, known for Carp and Pike, and Marks Hall Fishery in White Roding, which is well-regarded for carp and catfish. Essex Manor is also famous for its substantial carp population. For a quieter experience, Brick House Farm Fishery near Brentwood offers a secluded setting.
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Hatfield Forest Lake, located within an ancient royal hunting forest, is a great option with diverse wildlife and a café. Pleshey Village features a quaint village pond and is a lovely spot for a breather. Redbridge Lakes is specifically designed as a family-friendly venue with a café and encourages children's fishing.
Near the lakes, you can explore significant historical sites. Pleshey Village is the site of a former royal castle, with earthworks remaining. Hatfield Forest Lake is within Hatfield Forest, an ancient royal hunting forest and a National Nature Reserve, featuring a medieval warren and ancient trees.
Beyond visiting the lakes, the High Roothing area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, running, and road cycling. For hiking, consider routes like the 'Stebbing, Little Dunmow and the Fitch Way from Great Dunmow' or 'Hiking loop from Leaden Roding'. Explore more options on the Hiking around High Roothing guide. Running enthusiasts can find trails like 'Running loop from Barnston' or 'Running loop from High Roothing' in the Running Trails around High Roothing guide. Road cyclists can enjoy routes such as 'High Easter Cricket Field – Rural Lanes and Farmland loop from High Roothing' or 'North Essex cafes and lanes loop from Great Dunmow' from the Road Cycling Routes around High Roothing guide.
Yes, Roding Valley Lake is noted for offering disabled access, making it a more accessible option for visitors. For other locations, it's advisable to check specific venue details for accessibility information.
The lakes and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. Hatfield Forest Lake, being part of an ancient forest, is home to deer, over 3,500 species of fungi, rare insects, and a diverse array of birdlife. Other lakes, especially those managed for fishing, will also have various fish species like Pike, Carp, Bream, Roach, Chub, Dace, Perch, and Tench.
Yes, some lakes offer facilities. Hatfield Forest Lake has a café. Redbridge Lakes is a family-friendly venue with a café and clean toilets. For other locations, it's best to check in advance, though many rural fisheries might have limited amenities.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural and managed water bodies, from serene village ponds to active fishing lakes. The area's appeal comes from its mix of rural countryside, opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and walking, and the chance to explore historical sites like the ancient Hatfield Forest. The komoot community has shown appreciation with 28 upvotes and 20 photos for the lakes in the region.
Yes, the River Roding flows through the area and offers walking opportunities. Langford Bridge Fishery, part of the Ongar & District Angling Society, features nearly two miles of the River Roding alongside its lakes, providing diverse river species and scenic paths.
Parking availability varies by location. For instance, Hatfield Forest requires payment for car entrance. Brick House Farm Fishery, managed by the Ongar & District Angling Society, is noted for good access and parking. It's always recommended to check specific parking details for each lake you plan to visit.
The lakes around High Roothing can be enjoyed throughout the year, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and summer are ideal for walking, picnicking, and enjoying the lush greenery and active wildlife. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter offers a quiet, serene landscape, though some facilities might have reduced hours. Anglers may find specific seasons better for certain fish species.


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