Dorney Lake Walk and Cycling
This purpose-built rowing lake in Buckinghamshire has a traffic free National Cycle Network trail running past it on one side and the Thames Path on the other. As such you can make a circular walking trail using these two trails or a linear ride from Eton Wick to Dorney Reach if you are on your bike. The lake was used as the rowing venue for the 2012 Olympics in London.
It's a lovely area with the riverside path and views across the lake to enjoy. There's also 450 acres of parkland including an Arboretum and Nature Conservation area. Look out for water loving birdlife including the grey heron.
You can park at the north western end of the lake just off Court Lane to start your walk. Alternatively you could catch the train to Windsor and then follow the Thames Path to the lake. It's about 1.5 mile walk passing Eton, Eton Wick and Dorney Common. A National Cycle Network Path also runs from the train station to the site.
If you would like to extend your exercise then you could visit the nearby Windsor Great Park. The park has miles of cycling and walking trails with woodland, parkland and lakes to enjoy. You could also continue along the Thames Path to Maidenhead which is only a couple of miles to the north.
The Jubilee River also runs past Dorney. This river has a great waterside cycling and walking trail running from Maidenhead to Eton.
You can virtually explore the cycle path on the northern side of the lake using the google street view link below.
Postcode
SL4 6QP - Please note: Postcode may be approximate for some rural locationsDorney Lake Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Dorney Lake Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Dorney Lake OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Dorney Lake Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Explore the Area with Google Street View 
Pubs/Cafes
In the village you can pay a visit to Dorney Court where you will find the delightful Crocus Cafe. They serve a lovely afternoon tea and can be found at postcode SL4 6QP for your sat navs. The cafe is also dog friendly.
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
The Maidenhead River Walk runs from the nearby town to Windsor passing the lake on the way.
For more walking ideas in the area see the Berkshire Walks page.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Dorney: Lake End field. Sunshine from a fine winter sunset catches the hedgerow next to a field of stubble near Lake End.
Dorney Lake. One of two bridges linking the main part of Dorney Lake with a smaller lake beyond. This is the Eton College rowing lake and will be the venue for the rowing events at the 2012 London Olympics. A triathlon was taking place there today.
A spring view from the eastern end
The Thames Path beside Dorney Lake Country Park. Located just south of the lake you can enjoy some views of Windsor Marina on the river.
Bird hide at Dorney Wetlands on the Jubilee River. This area is located just to the north of the lake and a great place to look out for wildlife.
This pretty pond is located just north of the main lake. It's a nice quiet spot with wildflowers in the warmer months.
Elephant fountain at Dorney Court. This historic grade I listed early Tudor manor house, dates from around 1440. It is located in Dorney village, a short walk from the north western end of the lake.
Open water swimmers at the western end.