UK Fishing Lakes: 55 Brilliant Fisheries for Carp, Coarse and Fly
There's nothing quite like it. The kettle's on, the float's sitting pretty, mist is lifting off the water and the rest of the world can wait. Fishing is one of the best days out the UK has going, and the choice of lakes up and down the country is frankly ridiculous.
This guide rounds up 55 cracking waters, from big-name carp complexes in Oxfordshire and Kent to quiet tench meres in Norfolk, busy match venues in Yorkshire and Warwickshire, and wild trout lochs in Scotland. There are proper Lincolnshire favourites too, because you can't write about fishing without a nod to the flatlands.
Whether you're after a first-ever bite for the kids, a weekend chasing a personal best or a full week on the bank with the family nearby, there's something here for you. Always check the fishery's own rules, booking system and licence requirements before you set off.
Carp fishing
Fancy hearing a bite alarm scream? These are dependable carp waters where a day ticket or short session gives you a real shot at a cracking fish.
Linear Fisheries A sprawling complex of old gravel pits near Stanton Harcourt in Oxfordshire, Linear is a household name among carp anglers. Each lake has its own character, from busy runs waters to moodier, harder pits holding pike and bream as well. Great if you want variety without driving between venues.
Todber Manor Tucked into the rolling Dorset countryside, Todber Manor mixes prolific carp lakes with pools stuffed with silverfish. It suits pleasure anglers and match lads alike, and the setting is properly pretty. Combine a session with a wander round nearby Blackmore Vale villages for a lovely weekend.
Gold Valley Lakes Gold Valley sits on the Hampshire and Surrey border, a handy escape for anglers from the Aldershot and Farnborough side. Carp and bream are the main targets across several lakes, and the mix of open swims makes it a friendly spot for newer carpers learning the ropes.
Great Somerford Lakes Out in the Wiltshire countryside, Great Somerford offers a relaxed complex with carp topping the bill and a good mix of coarse species alongside. It's the sort of place where you can fish a slow afternoon in peace, then pop into a nearby village pub on the way home.
Albyns Farm Lake Essex anglers looking for a straightforward carp pool will like Albyns Farm, a farm lake that keeps things simple. Turn up, pick a swim and settle in. It's an easy option for a short session from east London or the wider Essex commuter belt.
Suffolk Water Park Close to Ipswich, Suffolk Water Park gives you carp, pike and bream across its waters, so you can switch tactics with the seasons. Winter lure anglers and summer carp fans both get a look in, which makes it a handy year-round option in East Anglia.
Specimen lakes
These are the waters people dream about. Expect to book ahead, read the rules carefully and put in the hours, but the rewards can be unforgettable.
Elphicks Fisheries Deep in the Kent Weald near Horsmonden, Elphicks is a pre-book specimen carp venue with a serious reputation. Lakes are run with care and the fish are looked after, so expect proper rules and limited spaces. Plan your trip early and pair it with a pub lunch in the Weald.
Wraysbury 1 Few lakes carry as much carp angling history as Wraysbury 1 in Berkshire. This big, testing gravel pit near Heathrow has produced some of the most famous carp the sport has known. Access arrangements vary, so check the current ticket and syndicate set-up before getting your hopes up.
Berners Hall Fishery Berners Hall, in rural Essex near Ongar, is a go-to for anglers chasing big carp and catfish on a ticket rather than a syndicate. Long sessions are part of the appeal here, so bring the bivvy, a decent stove and plenty of patience.
A D H Fisheries Five lakes make up this Lincolnshire specimen carp venue, giving you plenty of options if one water is being stubborn. It's a favourite with anglers from across the East Midlands and Humber who want big-fish chances without trekking to the south of England.
Horcott Lakes Sitting in the Cotswold Water Park near Fairford, Horcott is a classic Gloucestershire gravel pit fishery known for big carp. Clear water, weed beds and wary fish mean watercraft really matters. Spend a day walking the banks before you cast and you'll fish it far better.
The Folly Lakes The Folly Lakes in Cambridgeshire run on a pre-book basis, keeping pressure down and the fishing calm. Specimen carp are the draw, and the small numbers on the bank make for a peaceful session in the fen country.
Seymour Fishery Want a lake to yourself? Seymour Fishery in Somerset works on private hire, so you and your mates book the water exclusively. It's a brilliant idea for a stag do with a difference, a birthday session or a few days of uninterrupted specimen carp angling.
A12 Lakes Easy to reach from the main road it's named after, A12 Lakes is an Essex day ticket complex with big carp on the cards. Handy for anglers from Chelmsford, Colchester and beyond, and a solid choice when you fancy a crack at a lump without a waiting list.
Coarse fishing
Roach, rudd, tench, bream, crucians and the odd surprise carp. These waters are perfect for float and feeder fans who love a mixed bag.
Lindholme Lakes Country Park On the Isle of Axholme near Epworth, Lindholme Lakes is a big North Lincolnshire complex with carp, F1s and silverfish spread across plenty of waters. Pleasure anglers and match regulars both love it, and there's room to stretch out. A short hop from Scunthorpe, Doncaster and Grimsby. See Lindholme Lakes →
Messingham Sands Fishery Just outside Scunthorpe in North Lincolnshire, Messingham Sands offers several coarse waters with different set-ups and rules. Read up on which lake suits your style before you arrive. It's a relaxed local favourite for a few hours on the float or feeder. See Messingham Sands →
The Oaks Lakes In North Yorkshire, The Oaks Lakes gives you carp, tench and silverfish in a tidy commercial setting. It's a reliable place to build a mixed net, and a nice way to spend a summer evening before heading into York or the Dales for tea.
Chester Lakes Cheshire anglers and visitors to Chester can nip out to Chester Lakes for carp plus roach and rudd. Small fish make it lively for beginners, while the carp keep experienced hands interested. A fishing morning pairs well with an afternoon on Chester's famous city walls.
Star Carr Lakes Star Carr Lakes in East Yorkshire serves up a coarse mix with carp at the heart of it. It's a friendly day ticket stop for anglers from Hull, Beverley and the coast, and a great alternative when the sea's too lumpy for a beach session.
Woodhouse Grange Fishery Woodhouse Grange keeps it simple: well-stocked commercial pools where carp are the main event. It's a good Yorkshire choice for building confidence with method feeders and pellet waggler, and the steady sport makes it ideal for practice before a match.
Old Fen Lakes Old Fen Lakes in Norfolk is a quieter coarse fishery where carp and tench share the water. Early mornings in late spring, when tench start fizzing, are something special. It slots in nicely with a trip to the Broads or the North Norfolk coast.
Marsh Farm Surrey's Marsh Farm is beloved by fans of crucian carp and tench, two of the most charming fish you can catch on a float. Light tackle and a bit of finesse pay off here. A gorgeous, old-fashioned style of angling only an hour or so from London.
Rocklands Mere Rocklands Mere in Norfolk is pure traditional angling: tench, crucians and a float dipping in the reeds. No frantic commercial vibe, just you and the water. Bring bread, a pin and some patience for a proper throwback day out in Breckland.
Shrewley Pools Farm Spring-fed and set on a Warwickshire farm, Shrewley Pools keeps its water clear and its carp and tench in fine condition. Bring polarising glasses, because spotting fish is half the fun. Easy to reach from Warwick, Leamington and the M40.
Match fishing
Like a bit of competition? These venues are built for pegged matches, steady weights and a buzzing car park on a Sunday morning.
Hayfield Lakes South Yorkshire's Hayfield Lakes is a busy match and day ticket venue packed with carp and F1s. Pegs are well laid out and the lakes fish consistently, which is why clubs keep coming back. Ideal practice ground if you're new to the match scene around Doncaster.
Partridge Lakes Partridge Lakes in Cheshire, near Warrington, has a long track record of hosting serious matches. Carp, F1s and ide keep the sport ticking along. Pleasure anglers are welcome too, so it's a great place to watch the pros and pick up tips.
Makins Fishery Makins is a big Warwickshire commercial complex with a reputation among match anglers across the Midlands. Lots of lakes mean lots of pegs, and carp dominate the weights. Turn up on a weekday and you'll often find a quieter bank to practise your pole work.
Tunnel Barn Farm Pole fans, this Warwickshire venue is your playground. Tunnel Barn Farm is famous on the circuit for F1s and carp, with barbel adding a twist. Neat, purpose-built pegs make it comfortable, and it's close to the canal network if you want a stroll afterwards.
Alders Farm Fishery In Buckinghamshire, Alders Farm runs both day tickets and matches, with carp and F1s keeping the floats busy. It's handy for Milton Keynes anglers and a solid spot to test new rigs. Check the match calendar if you'd rather have a lake to yourself.
Buttonhole Fishery Buttonhole Fishery in Norfolk has a match and pleasure lake with a carp-and-coarse mix. Friendly, unfussy and rewarding, it's a nice entry point for anglers trying their first open match. Pop over to the coast afterwards for chips by the sea.
Alvechurch Fisheries South of Birmingham in Worcestershire, Alvechurch Fisheries is a well-known day ticket complex with carp, barbel and silverfish. Its waters suit pleasure anglers and match fishers alike. A handy escape when the city gets a bit much, with the Lickey Hills close by.
Hayton Lakes Fishery Near Retford in north Nottinghamshire, Hayton Lakes covers coarse, match and specimen carp fishing, with different arrangements for day tickets and booked sessions. Within easy reach of Lincolnshire and South Yorkshire, it's a great all-rounder for anglers who like to switch styles. See Hayton Lakes →
Fly fishing
Swap the bait box for a fly box. From chalk-stream style lakes to vast Scottish lochs, these waters are where trout anglers come alive.
Chew Valley Lake South of Bristol in Somerset, Chew Valley Lake is one of the country's best-known reservoir trout fisheries, with boat and bank fishing available. It's famous for big pike too, under special arrangements. Bird lovers adore it, so bring binoculars for the quieter moments.
Loch Leven Loch Leven, beside Kinross, is legendary among fly anglers for its wild brown trout, traditionally fished from boats drifting across the loch. Mary Queen of Scots was once imprisoned on its island castle. Combine a day afloat with a walk on the Loch Leven Heritage Trail. Explore Kinross →
Avon Springs Clear, spring-fed lakes in Wiltshire make Avon Springs a joy for sight-fishing trout. You can watch fish cruising and pick your moment. It's a smashing place for improving your casting, and it sits not far from Salisbury and Stonehenge for a bigger day out.
Pochard Lake Pochard Lake in Bedfordshire is a stocked rainbow trout fishery that suits newcomers to the fly. Manageable water and stocked fish give you a fair chance of a bend in the rod. Ideal for a half-day lesson or a gentle introduction.
Llyn Brenig High on the moors of Denbighshire in North Wales, Llyn Brenig is a big reservoir with a strong fly fishing following. Wild skies and open water make it feel a world away. There's a visitor centre and walking trails, so non-anglers in the party stay happy too.
Farmoor Reservoir Just west of Oxford, Farmoor Reservoir offers bank fishing for trout along its walls. It's easy to reach and good for a quick evening session after work. Sailors and walkers share the space, giving it a lively, sociable feel.
Esthwaite Water Near Hawkshead in the Lake District, Esthwaite Water is a managed fishery known for trout and big pike. It's quieter than its famous neighbour Windermere and the scenery is classic Lakeland. Afterwards, wander into Hawkshead for a nosey round the shops. Explore the Lake District →
Loch Lomond Loch Lomond, on the edge of the Highlands, holds pike, trout and migratory salmon in a truly stunning setting. Permits and rules matter here, so sort them out first. Then just soak up the islands, the hills and that famous loch-side light.
Family fishing
Want the kids hooked for life? Pick somewhere with easy access, plenty of bites and something else to do when little legs get restless.
Derwentwater Right next to Keswick, Derwentwater is a natural lake where perch, pike and trout swim beneath some of the Lake District's best views. Perch are perfect for youngsters, being bold and hungry. Mix in a launch trip round the lake and an ice cream in town. Explore the Lake District →
Angel of the North Lakes Up in the North East, Angel of the North Lakes is a day ticket venue with carp, bream and crucians. Bites tend to come steadily, which keeps young anglers interested. Make it a full day by visiting Antony Gormley's famous sculpture nearby.
Bain Valley Fisheries In the Lincolnshire countryside along the River Bain, Bain Valley Fisheries offers carp, pike and trout, so there's something for every age and ability. It's a lovely spot for a family taster session, and the Wolds and Woodhall Spa are close for a picnic afterwards.
Ardingly Reservoir Ardingly Reservoir in West Sussex mixes carp, pike and bream with lovely walks along its banks. Non-anglers can stroll while the keen ones fish. It's an easy trip from Brighton, Crawley and Haywards Heath, and a peaceful contrast to the busy coast.
Upper Tamar Lake On the Devon and Cornwall border near Bude, Upper Tamar Lake has carp, perch and bream in a rural reservoir setting. There's room to spread out a picnic blanket, and the beaches of Bude are a short drive for an afternoon paddle after a morning on the bank.
Day ticket fisheries
No membership, no fuss. Grab a ticket, pick a peg and get fishing. These are reliable spots for a spontaneous session.
Manor Farm Lakes Bedfordshire's Manor Farm Lakes keeps day ticket anglers happy with carp, tench and bream. It's a welcoming venue for families and newcomers, and the variety means you can float fish for tench one hour and target carp the next.
Cottington Lakes In east Kent, Cottington Lakes offers day ticket carp and coarse fishing not far from the coast. After a session, the seaside towns of Deal and Sandwich are close by for fish and chips, so it's a cracking option on a Kent holiday.
Drayton Reservoir Drayton Reservoir in Northamptonshire is a day ticket carp water with plenty of bank space. Big open swims make casting easy and give you room to set up comfortably. Handy for anglers heading up and down the M1 or living around Daventry.
Springvale Fishing Lakes Nottinghamshire's Springvale Fishing Lakes offers carp, F1s and coarse species across a day ticket complex. It's the kind of reliable place you keep in your back pocket for when you just need to get out on the bank for a few hours.
Lodge Farm Fisheries Lodge Farm Fisheries in South Yorkshire puts carp, bream and ide on the menu. Ide add a dash of colour to any net, and kids love them. It's an easy drive from Sheffield, Rotherham and Doncaster for a no-fuss day ticket.
Fishing holidays
Why stop at one day? These venues let you stay over, so you can be on the bank at first light while the rest of the family enjoys the extras.
Westwood Lakes Westwood Lakes is a Lincolnshire commercial holiday complex where you can wake up and be fishing within minutes. Carp, F1s and silvers keep things busy. It's ideal for a long weekend with your mates or a family break where the anglers get their fix.
Docklow Pools Docklow Pools in Herefordshire combines a fishery with holiday accommodation, and its lakes hold carp, tench and catfish. Rolling countryside and quiet lanes make it a proper escape. Ludlow and Hereford are both within reach for a day off the bank.
Hallcroft Fishery and Holiday Park On Hallcroft Road in Retford, this north Nottinghamshire venue pairs fishing with touring, camping and holiday stays. Pitch up, fish and repeat. It's well placed for a break from Lincolnshire or Yorkshire, and Sherwood Forest is close by for a family day out. See Hallcroft Fishery →
White Acres Holiday Park Near Newquay in Cornwall, White Acres is a huge holiday park built around its fishing, with lots of lakes to choose from. While you fish, the family can enjoy the pool, entertainment and the nearby beaches. A dream combination for angling families. See White Acres →
Tattershall Lakes Country Park Tattershall Lakes is a big lakeside holiday park in Lincolnshire with plenty to keep everyone busy, from water sports and an Aqua Park to an arcade. Check what fishing is on offer during your stay, and visit nearby Tattershall Castle while you're there. See Tattershall Lakes →
Fishing by county
Lincolnshire punches well above its weight, with commercial complexes, holiday fisheries and specimen waters dotted from the Humber down to the Fens. Lindholme Lakes, Messingham Sands, A D H, Bain Valley and Westwood are all worth a look, and the drains and rivers add miles of natural fishing.
Yorkshire is packed with match and day ticket venues, especially around Doncaster, Sheffield and York, while the East Riding has quieter coarse waters. Kent mixes specimen venues like Elphicks with day ticket lakes near the coast. Essex is big-carp country, with Berners Hall, A12 Lakes and Albyns Farm all within reach of London.
Norfolk is a gem for traditional tench and crucian fishing, and the Broads add pike and bream. Derbyshire is best known for reservoir trout fishing such as Carsington Water and the Peak District reservoirs, plus plenty of local coarse ponds. Lancashire offers commercial pools, canal fishing on the Lancaster Canal and river angling on the Ribble.
Planning your fishing trip
First things first: if you're 13 or over and fishing for freshwater fish in England or Wales, you'll need a rod fishing licence on top of any fishery permit. Scotland has different rules, so check before you go.
Always read the fishery's own rules, as many have bans on certain baits, minimum hook sizes, landing net and unhooking mat requirements, and limits on night fishing. Pre-book venues can fill up fast, especially in summer. Pack layers, sun cream, a flask and more snacks than you think you'll need. If you're bringing kids, keep sessions short and pick a lake known for steady bites. And once you're done, put everything back as you found it, take your litter home and leave the swim tidy for the next angler.
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