The tranquil Fen Drayton Lakes are located in Cambridgeshire, East Anglia, just north of Fen Drayton. These tiny ponds are located next to the Great Ouse River and were created from former gravel and sand pits. The marshes around these lakes, roughly 20 feet above sea level, provide an ideal habitat for birds and waterfowl; occasionally, they even draw seals.
Moore Lake, Elney Lake, Oxholme Lake, and Holywell Lake are among the lakes; all are protected reserves, and fishing is not allowed. Restricted fishing permits are available in other lakes, like Ferry Lagoon and Springhill Lagoon. The little islets and uneven surfaces of these shallow ponds make them perfect places for birds to build their nests.
The 267-acre Fen Drayton Lakes Reserve has walking trails, birdwatching blinds, and picturesque views. The reserve, managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, connects to the Ouse Washes wetlands and the Hanson-RSPB Wetland Project, forming a protected wetland area along the River Great Ouse. Wintering ducks and geese, hedgerow birds, and breeding warblers, all call the reserve home. Common sightings include goldeneye, gadwall, pintail, coot, wigeon, and bitterns. There are initiatives to promote kingfisher, common tern, and black-headed gull nesting.
Fen Drayton Lakes is well-liked for strolling, picnicking, and bird watching. School field trips are common to study the local insects, fungi, and dragonflies. The area is also a favorite among anglers, who fish for dace, chub, roach, perch, and bream. The occasional 30-pound carp is a prized catch.
The Cambridgeshire Guided Busway, running from Cambridge to Huntingdon and St. Ives, passes through the Fen Drayton Lakes Reserve. Along with the National Cycle Route 51, this route makes the area easily accessible for cyclists and walkers. The reserve offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful views and wildlife.
Nearby attractions include the Raptor Foundation, which provides educational activities about birds of prey, and the Animal Experience, specializing in reptiles and meerkats. The area around Fen Drayton Lakes is well-served, with bed-and-breakfasts, guest cottages, hotels, and inns near historic St. Ives. Boating on the River Great Ouse is also popular, with improved waterways providing easy navigation.
The Fen Drayton Lakes offer a perfect blend of nature and tranquility. Visitors can enjoy the serene landscapes, diverse wildlife, and various outdoor activities. The Cambridgeshire countryside is ideal for a peaceful getaway or a permanent retreat.