Fen Drayton Lakes
This large RSPB nature reserve near St Ives has some nice walking trails and a cycle path running through it. The reserve consists of a series of lakes, ponds and lagoons with the River Great Ouse running through the northern section. There's lots of well laid out trails taking you around and between the lakes with National Cycle Route 51 running through the central section along the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway.
The reserve is a haven for water loving wildlife with huge numbers of ducks, swans and geese on the lakes in winter. Also look out for terns, hobbies, lapwings, coots and a variety of dragonflies.
You can extend your walk by picking up the Ouse Valley Way which runs through the reserve. If you head west it will take you into St Ives and then onto the lovely Houghton Mill which is well worth a visit. Heading north along the waymarked trail takes you along the river to Earith. There's also another public footpath running along the Ouse into nearby Hemingford Grey.
Cyclists can continue along the Cambridge to St Ives busway cycle path. It's a great traffic free route running along a disused railway line.
Please click here for more information
Fen Drayton Lakes Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Fen Drayton Lakes Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Fen Drayton Lakes OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Fen Drayton Lakes Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
To the east is neighbouring Cottenham where there's a pretty village green, picturesque old almshouses, quaint thatched cottages and a church dating back to the 15th century. You can also enjoy a walk along Cottenham Lode to Rampton which is also worth exploring.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Parking for Fen Drayton Lakes
Footpath around Fen Drayton Lakes
Oxholme Lake, formerly an old gravel pit. The vegetation is becoming quite mature along the fringes, with reeds and willows.
The information board at the reserve, detailing the birds you can see on the waters.