Top 14 Lakes around Burrington
Lakes around Burrington offer diverse natural landscapes within the Mendip Hills area. This region features significant water bodies, including large artificial lakes and smaller ponds, set amidst rolling hills and countryside. The area provides opportunities for appreciating natural habitats and engaging in outdoor activities. Burrington is characterized by its blend of natural beauty and historical points of interest near these water features.
Best lakes around Burrington
- The most popular lakes is Chew Valley Lake, a viewpoint that is the 5th largest artificial lake in the UK. It offers brilliant views of the lake and surrounding countryside, with a 14 km loop trail available.
- Another must-see spot is Knowle Hill, a summit offering views over Chew Lake and the Mendip Hills AONB. Visitors can find a bench at the summit to enjoy the panoramic scenery.
- Visitors also love Rickford Chapel and Pond, a historical site featuring a 19th-century "Swiss style" Grade II listed Methodist chapel. The chapel sits on the edge of Rickford Pond, which historically fed local mills.
- Burrington is known for large artificial lakes and smaller ponds. These include significant water bodies like Chew Valley Lake and the historic Rickford Pond, offering varied natural settings.
- The lakes around Burrington are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 250 upvotes and over 30 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Chew Valley Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
There are brilliant views of the lake and surrounding countryside as you pass along the dam.
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Chew Valley Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
Thanks to the indigenous and migrant birds that flock to the lake throughout the year, the lake is a national centre for birdwatching.
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Salt & Malt, Chew Valley Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Bird Watching at Chew Valley Lake
Highlight • Lake
The A368 crosses the southern edge of the lake. There is car parking along the causeway, and it's always a popular bird watching area.
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Cheddar Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
The concrete outlet tower serves as the central control point for the reservoir's water supply. Connected by a bridge to the main dam, the tower houses sluice gates and valves that regulate the flow and distribution of water to the River Chew and the local water supply.
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Great stretch of road, I know I am nearly at Bristol, or just getting started. Either way I cannot help but stop and enjoy the view, just stunning.
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Beautiful Lake. It's very large(!) And is really easily accessible, there is parking right by the edge of the lake, if you can not walk there. It's a fantastic spot for bird watching, too! There is a board that displays the birds you may be likely to see and when you'll see them. Please do not feed bread to the ducks & birds! (I know it was normal, I used to do it as a small child in the late 80s & 90s, but we know it's bad for them now)
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awesome hidden pump track is really worth the journey guys
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Chew Valley Lake is the 5th largest artificial lake in the UK. It was constructed in the 1950s to supply drinking water for Bristol and the nearby area. There are brilliant views of the lake and surrounding countryside as you pass along the dam.
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Chew Valley Lake formed by the construction of this dam on the River Chew in the 1950's. Built to provide drinking water for Bristol.
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Chew Valley Lake was created in the early 1950 s to provide drinking water to Bristol and the surrounding area. It also controls the flow rate of the River Chew. The A368 crosses the southern edge of the lake. There is car parking along the causeway, and it's always a popular bird watching area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most notable lakes and water features around Burrington?
The region around Burrington features significant water bodies like Chew Valley Lake, which is the 5th largest artificial lake in the UK. Another interesting spot is Rickford Chapel and Pond, a historical site with a 19th-century chapel situated by a pond that once powered local mills.
Are there good walking trails around the lakes near Burrington?
Yes, Chew Valley Lake offers a lovely 14 km loop trail around its perimeter, providing brilliant views of the lake and surrounding countryside. Additionally, the area around Knowle Hill, which overlooks Chew Lake, has various tracks crossing its slopes.
What kind of views can I expect around the lakes?
You can expect brilliant views of the lakes and the rolling Mendip Hills AONB. From the summit of Knowle Hill, for example, you get panoramic vistas over Chew Lake and the surrounding landscape, with a bench perfectly placed to enjoy the scenery.
Are the lakes around Burrington suitable for families?
Yes, several spots are family-friendly. Chew Valley Lake is popular for its accessible trails and scenic views. Nearby, Salt & Malt offers a chip shop with a picnic area overlooking Chew Valley Lake, which is great for a family stop.
What historical sites are located near the lakes?
A notable historical site is Rickford Chapel and Pond. This 19th-century 'Swiss style' Grade II listed Methodist chapel sits on the edge of Rickford Pond, which historically supplied water to local paper and flour mills.
Can I go bird watching at the lakes?
Yes, Chew Valley Lake is a fantastic and popular spot for bird watching. There's often a board displaying the birds you might see, and it's easily accessible with parking right by the lake's edge.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides walking?
The area around Burrington offers various outdoor activities. You can explore mountain biking trails, with routes like 'Cheddar Gorge & Burrington Combe loop' available. Gravel biking is also popular, with options such as 'Shute Shelve Tunnel – Strawberry Line Tunnel loop'. For road cyclists, there are routes like 'Burrington Combe Road Climb – Cheddar Gorge Climb loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the MTB Trails around Burrington, Gravel biking around Burrington, and Road Cycling Routes around Burrington guides.
Are there places to eat or drink near the lakes?
Yes, for refreshments, Salt & Malt at Chew Valley Lake is a popular spot. It's a chip shop with a picnic area overlooking the lake, offering coffee, cake, and fish and chips. There are also public toilets available there.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Burrington?
Visitors frequently praise the brilliant views of the lakes and the surrounding countryside, especially from spots like Chew Valley Lake and Knowle Hill. The peaceful atmosphere, opportunities for walking, and the chance to observe wildlife, particularly birds, are also highly valued.
Is there parking available near the lakes?
Yes, for places like Chew Valley Lake, there is car parking available along the causeway, making it easily accessible for visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Burrington?
While specific seasonal tips aren't provided, the area's natural beauty and outdoor activities can be enjoyed throughout the year. Spring and summer offer lush landscapes and warmer weather for walking and picnicking, while autumn brings vibrant colors. Winter walks can also be quite scenic, especially around the lakes.
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