The “largest man-made lake in Europe” which happens to be located here in the North East has been revealed as one of the best to visit for the "perfect" day out.
Kielder Water in Northumberland was praised by The Independent for its broad range of activities including canoeing, sailing and snorkelling (plus its “impressive” sculptures).
It’s also ideal for anyone who likes to go stargazing.
The publisher commented: “While many of us flock to the beach as our first UK travel choice during warmer weather, lakes have become an increasingly popular place.
@alrkinn Kielder Forest and Water 🏞 #fyp #walks #northumberland #kielder #nationalpark #nature #hike #bike #england #countryside #deer #trees #forest #lake ♬ Home - Edith Whiskers
“The country is spoilt for choice: there are over 40,000 lakes in the UK, so there’s something however you wish to spend your day out.
“While the Lake District may be an obvious option, you’ll discover lakes and lochs worth visiting across the British Isles from the Scottish Highlands right down to Cornwall.”
It continued: “There’s often plenty to do around the banks and on the water – though always remember that some of the lakes have rules around entering them, so always check local restrictions (and make sure it's safe to swim if you’re allowed).”
But what makes Kielder Water stand out from the crowd? Let’s find out.
Why is Kielder Water among UK’s best lakes?
The Independent explained: “Kielder Water is the largest man-made lake in Europe, and the 10.8km area of water is set within an expansive forest.
“The area is ideal for cycling, birdwatching, exploring and stargazing.”
It added: “Activities on the lake include canoeing, sailing, snorkelling and water-skiing, while you can partake in archery, fencing and more on dry land too.
“The Forest Park has an enormous 250 square miles of woodland and this West Northumberland beauty spot is home to breeding ospreys, impressive sculptures and an observatory.”
If you fancy staying over during your visit to Kielder Water, The Independent recommends Northumberland Hideaways, “an apartment complex within Kielder, where guests can enjoy dark sky stargazing and looking out onto the forest”.
9 lakes in the UK ‘perfect' for days out
- Serpentine Lake, London
- Buttermere, Cumbria
- Loe Pool, Cornwall
- Kielder Water, Northumberland
- Loch Morar, Scottish Highlands
- Bala Lake, Gwynedd
- Lough Neagh, Northern Ireland
- St James’s Park Lake, London
- Malham Tarn, Yorkshire
5 Perfect Spots for a Summer Staycation
Recommended reading:
- This 'wildlife haven' in the North East is one of the UK's most beautiful forests
- 3 'hidden gem' Lake District pools among the UK's best natural swimming spots
- Fishing reservoir in County Durham named among UK's most Instagrammable lakes
On Tripadvisor, Kielder Water & Forest Park has a rating of 4.5/5 out of 708 reviews.
Someone posted: "We visited Kielder for 4 days and enjoyed our stay. We stayed at the Falstone Barns, just a 3-minute drive from the lake, would recommend staying there!
"We enjoyed the osprey boat trip with Wild Intrigue, walking around the lake on the various trails and the observatory!
"The weather changes very quickly, we needed sun cream and waterproofs in the same day so be prepared!
You can read more about each best-named lake in the UK on The Independent’s website.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here