Top 4 Lakes around Awbridge
Best lakes around Awbridge are found in the wider Hampshire region, as there are no publicly accessible lakes directly within Awbridge village. The most notable lake in Awbridge, Awbridge Danes Lake, is part of a private estate and not open to the public. However, the surrounding area features several nature reserves and ponds that offer opportunities for observing wildlife and walking. These natural features contribute to the local landscape.
Best lakes around Awbridge
- The most popular lakes is Testwood Lakes…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve
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Little Testwood Lake
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Testwood Lake Northern Bank
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Pond at Abbotswood Nature Reserve
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There are several ponds which support a large population of Great Crested Newts.
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Bronze Age Roundhouse at Testwood Lakes
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It's called a lake, but it's in fact a reservoir, apparently able to store 270 million litres of water. It's one of the three lakes that make up Test Lakes Nature Reserve (the other lakes being Testwood Lake to the north and Meadow Lake to the north of that). In fact, this beautiful spot affords you beautiful views of both Little Testwood Lake and Testwood Lake. Worth stopping here to marvel at the natural world.
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A very interesting Bronze Age roundhouse is to be found on the northern banks of Testwood Lake. When the reservoir here was being built, evidence of this Bronze Age site was found, including not just the roundhouse, but also a timber bridge and a part of a boat. Also, nearby, there is a very interesting log with wildlife carvings on it - rather pretty!
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There are lovely views of the lake from its northern banks. Within the Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve, it abounds in wildlife (e.g. oystercatchers and lapwings). Easy paths lead to the banks - on a sunny day, it's great to sit on the grass for a bit of quiet.
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Abbotswood Nature Reserve has recently been opened by the Test Valley Borough Council, as part of the nearby housing development. There are several ponds which support a large population of Great Crested Newts.
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Testwood Lakes is a beautiful nature reserve located in Southampton. The reserve features a multitude of tranquil lakes and walking trails and is teeming with wonderful wildlife and birdlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the likes of the sand martin, great crested grebe, kingfisher, snipe, great white egret, little egret and Grey Heron.
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Testwood Lakes form a stunning nature reserve with grassland, wetland and woodland habitats. Lapwings, oystercatchers, and great crested grebes roost on the lakes in spring. During the summer, clouds of brightly-coloured dragonflies and damselflies can be observed. You can see plenty more wildlife and plantlife, too. There are also bird hides dotted around.
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Testwood Lakes is a lovely spot to visit when on foot, whether running or walking. The exit pathway to the north is overgrown at present. Not impassably, but getting through unscathed by brambles or stinging nettles is quite difficult right now (July 2016). Also, my runs have been interrupted by grazing cows being stubbornly unwilling to move.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes and natural features to visit near Awbridge?
While Awbridge Danes Lake is private, the most popular natural feature is Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve, which offers multiple tranquil lakes and walking trails. Another notable spot is the Pond at Abbotswood Nature Reserve, known for its Great Crested Newt population.
Is Awbridge Danes Lake accessible to the public?
No, Awbridge Danes Lake is located within a private estate and is not accessible to the public. It is part of the historic Awbridge Danes estate, established in the 1820s, and remains privately owned.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve?
Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve is rich in wildlife. You can spot diverse birdlife such as sand martins, kingfishers, great crested grebes, lapwings, oystercatchers, and grey herons. In summer, the lakes are home to brightly-coloured dragonflies and damselflies. Bird hides are available for observation.
Are there family-friendly activities around the lakes near Awbridge?
Yes, Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve and Little Testwood Lake are both considered family-friendly. The nature reserves offer easy walking trails suitable for families. Additionally, the Pond at Abbotswood Nature Reserve is also a good spot for families to explore nature.
Are there historical sites near the lakes?
Yes, within the Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve, you can find a Bronze Age Roundhouse. Evidence of this ancient site, including a timber bridge and part of a boat, was discovered during the reservoir's construction.
What walking routes are available near Awbridge's lakes?
You can find several walking routes in the vicinity. For example, there's an easy 'Awbridge Nature Reserve loop' and various routes around Mottisfont. You can explore more options on the Hiking around Awbridge guide.
Can I go cycling near the lakes around Awbridge?
Yes, there are cycling routes available in the broader area. You can find routes like the 'Mottisfont Country Road – St Mary's Church, Longstock loop' or the 'John O'Gaunt Inn loop'. More details are available in the Cycling around Awbridge guide.
What makes Little Testwood Lake special?
Little Testwood Lake is part of the Test Lakes Nature Reserve and offers beautiful views of both itself and the larger Testwood Lake. It's actually a reservoir capable of storing a significant amount of water, making it a key feature of the natural landscape.
What is the best time to visit Testwood Lakes for wildlife viewing?
Spring is excellent for observing lapwings, oystercatchers, and great crested grebes roosting on the lakes. During the summer, you can witness clouds of brightly-coloured dragonflies and damselflies. The reserve offers diverse wildlife year-round.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners near Awbridge?
Yes, for easy hikes, consider the 'Awbridge Nature Reserve loop' or the 'Mottisfont Phone Box Library – Hatt Lane Cycle Path loop'. These are generally considered easy and are great for a relaxed walk. You can find more easy options in the Easy hikes around Awbridge guide.
What do visitors appreciate most about the lakes around Awbridge?
Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquil environment and diverse wildlife at places like Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve. The opportunities for walking and observing nature, including various bird species and insects, are highly valued by the komoot community.
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