Top 5 Lakes around Pinewood
Best lakes around Pinewood include a large man-made reservoir and several park lakes and nature reserves. These water bodies offer diverse environments, from extensive watersports facilities to tranquil natural habitats. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities and observing local wildlife. Visitors can explore both engineered landscapes and protected natural areas featuring lakes.
Best lakes around Pinewood
- The most popular lakes is Lemons Hill Bridge, Alton Water, a bridge that crosses Alton Water, the largest man-made reservoir in Suffolk.…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
Lemons Hill Bridge, Alton Water
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Alton Water
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Alton Water Dam Wall
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Christchurch Park
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Bobbits Lane Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
Lemons Hill Bridge carries the road across the northern end of Alton water reservoir. It links the two parts of Tattingstone village.
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The best view of the upper part of Alton Water. A wide, fast descent to the bridge from either direction with a short climb out.
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Completed in 1987, Alton Water is a hive of outdoor activity from watersports, cycling, walking, running, birdwatching and fishing. There is a cafe and toilets at the watersports centre plus camping if you would like to extend your visit.
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Lemons Hill Bridge crosses Alton Water and links the two parts of Tattingstone which were split when the reservoir was created. A great number of buildings were lost. In the north is the village pub, the White Horse, a lovely place to stop, while in the south is an 18th century workhouse and the parish church. If you are running through the village keep an eye out for the red phone box which is home to a collection of audio recordings of people who were impacted by the flooding of the area to make way for Alton Water.
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Rolling lawns, lakes and woodlands, Christchurch Park is a great place to find nature on a run in Ipswich. It opened in 1985 and has been a popular place for relaxation and activity since. There are pubic toilets to the east of Bridle Way.
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Completed in 1987, Alton Water is a hive of outdoor activity from watersports, cycling, walking, birdwatching and fishing. There is a cafe and toilets at the watersports centre plus camping if you would like to extend your visit.
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Alton Water is a popular place for outdoor activity, but really exists as a water source for the people of Ipswich. The dam wall blocks the River Gripping and the water treatment works below the dam can treat up to 10 million imperial gallons of water a day!
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The largest manmade reservoir in Suffolk, Alton Water is a tranquil place to whittle away some time on a bike Tour. It took over 13 years to construct the reservoir, opening in 1987. The waters' surface area measures a whopping 400 acres (160 ha) – plenty big enough to enjoy various watersports!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Pinewood?
Around Pinewood, you'll discover a variety of lakes, including large man-made reservoirs like Alton Water, park lakes such as those in Christchurch Park, and protected nature reserve lakes like Bobbits Lane Nature Reserve. These offer diverse environments for recreation and wildlife observation.
What are some popular lake destinations around Pinewood?
Popular lake destinations include Lemons Hill Bridge, Alton Water, which crosses the expansive Alton Water reservoir, and the Alton Water Visitor Centre & Picnic Area. Another favorite is Bobbits Lane Nature Reserve, known for its rich biodiversity.
Are there opportunities for watersports around Pinewood?
Yes, Alton Water, the largest man-made reservoir in Suffolk, spans 400 acres and is suitable for various watersports. You can find facilities and information at the Alton Water Visitor Centre.
Can I go hiking or walking near the lakes?
Absolutely. Alton Water offers 8 miles of cross-country tracks around the reservoir. Additionally, you can explore numerous hiking routes in the area, including those around Bobbits Lane Nature Reserve. For more options, check out the hiking guide for Pinewood.
Are there easy walks around the lakes?
Yes, there are several easy walking routes available. For example, you can find easy hikes around the Pinewood area, including loops from Wherstead. Discover more options in the easy hikes guide for Pinewood.
Are the lakes around Pinewood family-friendly?
Many of the lake areas are family-friendly. Lemons Hill Bridge, Alton Water, Christchurch Park, and the Alton Water Visitor Centre & Picnic Area are all noted as family-friendly, offering amenities and activities suitable for all ages.
Are there accessible trails around the lakes?
Some areas offer accessible options. For instance, Lemons Hill Bridge, Alton Water is noted as wheelchair accessible, providing a good starting point for exploring the reservoir.
Are there facilities like cafes or picnic areas near the lakes?
Yes, the Alton Water Visitor Centre & Picnic Area features a cafe and an outdoor picnic area, perfect for refreshments and breaks during your visit.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
At Bobbits Lane Nature Reserve, you might spot a wide range of plants and animals, including otters, water voles, kingfishers, and egrets among the grassy fields and reed beds. Christchurch Park also offers opportunities to observe local nature.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Pinewood?
The lakes around Pinewood can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for watersports and picnics, while autumn offers beautiful foliage for walks. Winter provides a tranquil atmosphere for quiet strolls, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are there running trails around the lakes?
Yes, there are several running trails. You can find routes around Bobbits Lane Nature Reserve and along the Ipswich Waterfront. For detailed options, refer to the running trails guide for Pinewood.
Can I find circular walks near the lakes?
Yes, many of the walking and hiking routes around Pinewood's lakes are designed as circular paths, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Check the specific route details in the hiking guides for options like the Suffolk Food Hall loops.
Most popular routes around Pinewood
Most popular attractions around Pinewood
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