Top 10 Lakes around Henley-in-Arden
Best lakes around Henley-in-Arden include a variety of water bodies, from historic canal reservoirs to natural river systems. The region features several notable lake systems and rivers that offer opportunities for recreation and nature observation. These water features contribute to the area's natural landscape, providing habitats for wildlife and routes for walking. Henley-in-Arden itself is traversed by the River Alne, which includes significant green spaces.
Best lakes around Henley-in-Arden
- The most popular lakes is Engine House and Engine Pool, Earlswood Lakes, a lake that was originally constructed in the 1820s to supply water to the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal. The Engine House is a Grade II listed building, historically housing the beam engine that pumped water.
- Another must-see spot is Windmill Pool Lake, a lake covering 25 acres (10 ha). This lake is part of the Earlswood Lakes system, which was built over nearly 5 years.
- Visitors also love Terry's Pool Reservoir, a man-made lake covering 20 acres (8.1 ha). It is one of the three main lakes within the Earlswood Lakes system, fed by tributaries of the River Blythe.
- Henley-in-Arden is known for historic canal reservoirs, natural river systems, and smaller park lakes. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, catering to different interests such as walking, fishing, and wildlife observation.
- The lakes around Henley-in-Arden are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 60 upvotes and 10 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Engine House and Engine Pool, Earlswood Lakes
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Blythe Valley Park Circular Walk
Highlight • Natural
The site is like a cross between New Hall Valley Country park in Sutton Coldfield and Plantsbrook in Pype Hayes and is home to a mixture of conservation woodland, 38,000m² of new woodland, grassland, hedgerows, streams and wetland. The 3.5km path is be great for cycling and running, too.
Work on the business park commenced in August 1998 and was a joint development between Solihull MBC, Doughty Hanson & Co Real Estate and Liberty Property Trust.
The River Blythe has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and there are local damp willow woodlands, emergent reeds and wet grassland. In a rare UK approach, storm water from the built up area is cleaned by several processes en route to the river.
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Arrow Valley Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Terry's Pool Reservoir
Highlight • Structure
There are three lakes. Terry's Pool lake cover 20 acres (8.1 ha). The lakes are fed by tributaries of the River Blythe, and in turn outfall into that river also.
Tip by
Windmill Pool Lake
Highlight • Lake
There are three lakes. The Windmill Pool lake cover 25 acres (10 ha). The lakes are fed by tributaries of the River Blythe, and in turn outfall into that river also.
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Henley-in-Arden.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Henley-in-Arden
Other adventures around Henley-in-Arden
Tips from the Community
Although the route suggested by Komoot was good there were some problems in the wooded section between the two railway crossings. The path was closed and therefore needed to find a detour.
1
0
Closed up nothing really to see apart from the building
0
0
Good ride today for charity ( IAm Versus Arthritis ) August cycling challenge. Beautiful riding part of my rout round the lake.
0
0
The Blythe Valley Countryside Park is 87 acres in size. The circular path includes several small lakes and a bird hide. The site is like a cross between New Hall Valley Country park in Sutton Coldfield and Plantsbrook in Pype Hayes and is home to a mixture of conservation woodland, 38,000m² of new woodland, grassland, hedgerows, streams and wetland. The 3.5km path is be great for cycling and running, too. Work on the business park commenced in August 1998 and was a joint development between Solihull MBC, Doughty Hanson & Co Real Estate and Liberty Property Trust. The River Blythe has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and there are local damp willow woodlands, emergent reeds and wet grassland. In a rare UK approach, storm water from the built up area is cleaned by several processes en route to the river.
0
0
The engine house is Grade II listed and was built to contain the original beam engine that pumped water from the reservoirs up to the higher level of the feeder river. It has been in continual operation since 1823, though in 1936 the beam engine was dismantled and replaced by the electric pumps. You can see the in-fill brickwork where the chimney was removed, marking the arrival of electricity. The building is typical of an engine house; one tall narrow room for the beam engine and lower storey ancillary rooms surrounding it. For this particular engine house the lower storey extension was added post 1846, when the canal was taken over by the Great Western Railway Company due to the decline of canal usage. This is telling in other details such as the workshop bench made out of railway sleepers and the reclaimed platform edging bricks on the stairs. The wooden beams for the upper floors are visible in between the brickwork and you can also see the structural ties that were added after construction, as the building needed more support to cope with the vibration of the machine.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes for visitors around Henley-in-Arden?
The Earlswood Lakes system is highly popular, featuring three main lakes. Engine House and Engine Pool, Windmill Pool Lake, and Terry's Pool Reservoir are all well-regarded for their historical significance and scenic beauty.
Are there family-friendly lakes with activities near Henley-in-Arden?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly experiences. The Earlswood Lakes, including Engine House and Engine Pool, are suitable for walks. Blythe Valley Park, featuring the Blythe Valley Park Circular Walk, has a circular path for cycling and running, and a bird hide for wildlife observation. Within Henley-in-Arden, the Riverlands area offers a pond-dipping platform and children's play equipment.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. Blythe Valley Park is excellent for birdwatching, with a dedicated bird hide. The River Blythe, which feeds some of the Earlswood Lakes and flows through Blythe Valley Park, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The Riverlands area in Henley-in-Arden is particularly important for great crested newts, and also supports grass snakes, smooth newts, and various fish species like white-clawed crayfish and trout.
Are there good walking or hiking trails around the lakes?
Yes, there are numerous walking and hiking opportunities. The Earlswood Lakes offer routes around their perimeters. Blythe Valley Park features an 87-acre countryside park with a 3.5km circular path suitable for walking, cycling, and running. For more extensive options, you can explore hiking routes around Henley-in-Arden, which include trails near water features.
What is the historical significance of the lakes near Henley-in-Arden?
The Earlswood Lakes, including Engine House and Engine Pool, Windmill Pool Lake, and Terry's Pool Reservoir, were originally constructed in the 1820s to supply water to the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal. Their construction took nearly five years and involved a labor force that included Napoleonic War prisoners. The Engine House itself is a Grade II listed building, historically housing the beam engine that pumped water.
Can I go fishing at any of the lakes?
Yes, Arden Lakes, located near Snitterfield, is primarily a fishery with six distinct lakes. These lakes are well-stocked with a variety of fish, catering to different fishing styles. Membership is typically required to book tickets for fishing at Arden Lakes.
Are there cycling routes available near the lakes?
Blythe Valley Park offers a circular path that is suitable for cycling. For more dedicated cycling experiences, you can find various road cycling routes around Henley-in-Arden, some of which may pass by or near the region's water bodies.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Henley-in-Arden?
The lakes offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for walking, cycling, and wildlife observation, with lush greenery and active wildlife. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, while winter can offer tranquil, crisp walks, though some paths might be muddy. Always check local conditions before your visit.
Are there any accessible lake walks for wheelchairs or strollers?
While specific accessibility details for all lake paths are not provided, Blythe Valley Park features a circular path that is generally suitable for various users, including those with strollers. For detailed accessibility information, it's recommended to check with individual lake management or local visitor information centers before your visit.
Where can I find parking for lakeside visits?
Arden Lakes provides an on-site car park for visitors. For other locations like Earlswood Lakes and Blythe Valley Park, parking facilities are typically available nearby, though it's advisable to check specific access points and parking arrangements for your chosen destination.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in the region?
Beyond walking and cycling, the area offers various outdoor pursuits. You can explore running trails around Henley-in-Arden, many of which incorporate scenic natural landscapes. The Riverlands area in Henley-in-Arden is also great for nature walks and pond-dipping, offering a direct connection to local biodiversity.
Are there cafes or pubs near the lakes for refreshments?
While specific cafes or pubs directly adjacent to every lake are not detailed, popular areas like Arrow Valley Lake (a bit further afield but mentioned in highlights) have a cafe on the water's edge. Henley-in-Arden itself, being a market town, offers various pubs and eateries that are easily accessible after a visit to the nearby lakes.
Most popular routes around Henley-in-Arden
Most popular attractions around Henley-in-Arden
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Henley-in-Arden? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
