Berkshire

Berkshire Public Waters

Berkshire is a county in South East England, west of London. It’s often referred to as the Royal County of Berkshire because of Windsor Castle, a royal residence located in the town of Windsor. Here are a few key points about Berkshire. Borders: It shares borders with Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Greater London, Surrey, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. Main Towns: Includes Reading (the largest town), Slough, Windsor, Maidenhead, Newbury, and Bracknell. Region: It is part of the South East England region. Transport: Well, connected by major motorways (like the M4) and rail links, especially to London. Notable Places: Windsor Castle, Ascot Racecourse, and the Thames Valley tech corridor.

Berkshire offers a rich spread of inland Public Waters - lakes, rivers, canals and weirs within its amazing towns and countryside be it rivers and canals for fishing and canoeing, some managed fisheries for trout and coarse species, locks & weirs which are popular with kayakers and special/reserved lakes for relaxing days out by the water. Or the canals for some boating, fishing and walking along the canal tow paths. Not forgetting some of the local restaurants, cafes, takeaways, pubs or a picknick next to your favourite Public Waters.

Berkshire has lakes, rivers, canals and weirs that are suitable for all types of recreational activities like biking, boating, camping, fishing, photography, swimming, walking and wildlife. Here's an overview of some Public Waters in Berkshire.

Berkshire Lakes

Berkshire has many relaxing and peaceful lakes. There are several beautiful parks and lakes in the Berkshire area that are popular for outdoor activities, scenic walks, and enjoying nature. Some Park Lakes: Dinton Pastures Country Park (near Wokingham) – It features several lakes and nature reserves, perfect for walking, birdwatching, or a peaceful day by the water. The Royal Windsor Great Park - While not strictly a "park lake," the park has several beautiful bodies of water, including the Long Walk and the Virginia Water Lake, which is popular for picnics and serene lakeside strolls

Black Swan Lake

A small, picturesque lake located in Berkshire, near the town of Wokingham. It’s often associated with the Black Swan Hotel, a charming, historic establishment near the lake in the village of Shurlock Row. The lake and surrounding area are known for their peaceful, scenic beauty, making it a popular spot for walking and enjoying nature.

Longmoor Lake

Longmoor Lake in Berkshire is another hidden gem, often overlooked compared to other more famous spots in the region. Located near Longmoor, which is a small area near Wokingham, this lake is a peaceful and quiet spot, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. While it’s not one of the more well-known lakes, it has a serene and tranquil environment, making it a lovely place for a walking, some quiet time, or a casual outdoor activity.

Maiden Erlegh Lake

Maiden Erlegh Lake is a scenic spot in the town of Earley, which is located just outside of Reading in Berkshire, England. It’s a part of the larger Maiden Erlegh Nature Reserve, which covers several acres of natural green space. The lake itself is a peaceful and popular spot for locals, offering a lovely setting for walking, birdwatching, and relaxation. The area around Maiden Erlegh Lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including waterfowl like ducks, swans, and geese. It's also a great place for anglers, as fishing is allowed in certain parts of the lake. The nature reserve offers some nice walking paths through wooded areas and meadows, making it a good place to enjoy a quiet day outdoors.

South Lake

Located in the town of Woodley, Berkshire, is another lovely natural space in the region. It’s a relatively large lake situated within a public park that serves as a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors. Like Maiden Erlegh Lake, South Lake is an attractive area for outdoor activities, including walking, biking, and birdwatching. It's also a popular spot for fishing, with anglers often seen by the water's edge. The lake is part of a wider green area known as South Lake Park, which features well-maintained pathways for walking and biking. The park is a great place to relax, with some areas offering benches and spaces for picnics. The surrounding trees and open spaces also make it a good place for families to enjoy a day out. South Lake is home to various wildlife, including waterfowl and other bird species, making it an enjoyable destination for nature lovers. The park also has a play area for children, so it’s family-friendly as well.

Whiteknights Lake

Situated within Whiteknights Park, a large public park in the town of Reading, Berkshire, which is home to the University of Reading. This park is a beautiful blend of natural spaces, with the lake being one of its central features. The area is known for its tranquillity, and the lake itself is a popular spot for leisurely walks, relaxation, and wildlife spotting. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, and it's often frequented by locals for a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city. It’s a great place for birdwatching, as it attracts a variety of waterfowl, such as ducks and swans, as well as other wildlife like squirrels and rabbits. The surrounding park also has several walking paths, so it's easy to enjoy a stroll around the area and take in the natural beauty. Whiteknights Lake is part of Whiteknights Park, which is also home to the University of Reading's botanical gardens, making it a fantastic spot for anyone interested in nature. In fact, the park is quite picturesque with its well-maintained flower beds, wooded areas, and even a few historical buildings on the university campus. Though it’s not as large or as famous as some other lakes in Berkshire, Whiteknights Lake is definitely a hidden gem for anyone looking to relax, read a book by the water, or simply enjoy some fresh air. Berkshire offers a rich spread of inland Public Waters within its amazing towns and countryside be it rivers and canals for fishing and canoeing, some managed fisheries for trout and coarse species, Locks & weirs which are popular with kayakers and special/reserved lakes for relaxing days out by the water.

Berkshire Rivers

Berkshire, with its beautiful countryside and proximity to the River Thames, has a number of public rivers and waterways that are great for outdoor activities such as walking, biking, kayaking, and fishing. Some of the most well-known rivers and watercourses in the county. River Thames is the most famous river in the UK and runs through Berkshire, providing a stunning waterway for a variety of recreational activities. The Thames Path, which follows the river’s course, passes through several towns and villages in Berkshire, including Windsor, Eton, Reading, and Maidenhead. You can enjoy leisurely walks, bike rides, or even rent a kayak or boat to explore the river. Some popular areas along the river in Berkshire include Windsor and Eton: Offering beautiful views of Windsor Castle and great riverside walks. Reading: The stretch of the Thames in Reading is known for its scenic paths, especially around Caversham and Sonning. Maidenhead: Known for the iconic Maidenhead Bridge, you’ll find great spots for strolling by the river.

River Kennet

The River Kennet is a major tributary of the River Thames and flows through towns like Newbury, Thatcham, and Reading. The river is known for its picturesque views, and the areas around it are great for walking and wildlife spotting. The Kennet and Avon Canal, which runs parallel to the river, is also a popular spot for biking and boating.

The River Meanders

The river meanders through these picturesque villages and offers a peaceful setting for a stroll or picnic. The phrase "the river meanders" evokes a sense of a winding, leisurely path that rivers take through the landscape, and it's something you’ll definitely experience in Berkshire.

River Loddon:

The River Loddon is another important watercourse in Berkshire, flowing through towns like Wokingham, Hurst, and Twyford. It's a quieter, smaller river compared to the Thames or Kennet, but it still offers pleasant walking routes and opportunities for nature lovers and wildlife watching.

River Colne

The River Colne is a tributary of the Thames that flows through parts of West Berkshire. The Colne offers a quieter experience compared to some of the larger rivers in the area and is great for walking and observing nature. It also passes through areas like Colnbrook and Wraysbury, where you can enjoy a peaceful riverside experience.

Blackwater River

The Blackwater River flows along the Berkshire-Surrey border. It is less well-known than the Thames or Kennet but provides a serene setting for those looking for quieter walks or nature experiences. The river flows near towns like Sandhurst and Yateley, offering good walking routes through woodlands and meadows.

Berkshire Canals

Berkshire Canals

The Berkshire Canals refer to a network of historic canals in the county of Berkshire, England. These canals were part of a wider system that facilitated the transportation of goods, particularly during the industrial revolution. However, many of these canals have been abandoned, filled in, or repurposed over the years. Here are some of the Canals and Locks: Basingstoke Canal - Burghfield Lock - County Lock - Fobney Pumping Station - Kennet and Avon Canal - Towney Lock (97)

Kennet and Avon Canal

The Kennet and Avon Canal is a Length of 87 miles (140 km) One of the most famous canals in the region, the Kennet and Avon Canal connects the River Thames at Reading (in Berkshire) to the Bristol Channel via Bath. History: The canal opened in the early 19th century, providing a key route for transporting coal, timber, and other goods between the industrial heartlands of the West Country and London. Modern Day: Today, it's a popular spot for recreational boating, walking, and biking. Parts of it have been restored, and it's part of the National Cycle Network.

The River Thames and its Tributaries

Although the River Thames isn't technically a canal, it has been historically used as a navigation route, and there are several smaller canals or canal-like features built off of the Thames in Berkshire. Notable Areas: Areas like Windsor and Maidenhead are historically connected to canal networks via the Thames.

The Basingstoke Canal

While it starts in Hampshire, the Basingstoke Canal runs through parts of Berkshire, including areas near Wokingham and Bracknell. Importance: It was mainly used for transporting coal, agricultural products, and building materials.

The Windsor and Eton Canal

This is a short canal that linked the River Thames at Windsor to the western end of the Basingstoke Canal. Status: The canal was filled in and is no longer navigable, but there are remnants of the canal’s route that can be explored.

Restoration Efforts

Over the past few decades, there has been a push to restore and preserve the Berkshire canals for recreational use. Organizations like the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust and the Canal and River Trust have played crucial roles in reviving many of these waterways.

Key Features to Explore: Boating: Many sections of the Kennet and Avon Canal are still navigable, making it a popular spot for boating.

Walking and Cycling: The towpaths along these canals are often converted into walking and biking routes.

Wildlife: These areas are great for birdwatching, photography and spotting other wildlife, especially near more rural or untouched stretches.

Places of Interest

Where there is Public Waters in Berkshire there will be even more in and around other places of interest like accommodation, castles and stately homes, campsites, hotels, nature reserves, parks, swimming pools, spas, theme parks, water parks, water sports, zoos, and general activities like biking, bird watching, boating, camping, fishing, photography, sightseeing, swimming, walking, wildlife. Some of which may help complete your visits, trips, tours, holidays planning ahead and enjoying your time in one of your favourite Public Waters destinations in Berkshire. 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park & Family Farm - Asham Meads - BCA Zoo - Beale Wildlife Park and Gardens - Bowden Woods - Bucklebury Common - Bucklebury Farm & Deer Safari Park - Reading Abbey Ruins - The Living Rain Forrest - The Lookout Discovery Centre - Windsor Great Park. Places of interest are ideal for your photography skills and taking some of those great pictures for your photograph albums, social media and special memories.

Public Water Locations

Activities