This is an extensive wetland reserve covering 70 hectares. The lakes were formed by excavation and quarrying and the main lakes dates back to 1800. Two smaller areas of lakes and pools were excavated in the 1990's.
Parking
what species and habitats can you find?
The Lake is noted for its wildfowl and waterbird communities and a number of species breed such as cormorant, great crested grebe and tufted duck. The lake next to the car park has islands that attract breeding and passage waders along side a colony of black headed gulls and common tern.
The adjacent River Welland will always hold some birds, with mute swan being especially numerous along here. Reedbed habitat is now well established and Bittern is frequently recorded and marsh harrier breed. Glossy Ibis and Cattle egret are two rarities that have been recorded recently that seem to have established a semi-permanent residence in the area.
The meadows and are managed to ensure a diversity of flowers and other plant species and orchids occur in the summer. The scrubby areas are excellent for summer migrants such as chiffchaff, garden warbler and blackcap.
The site is well known as wintering site for Long-eared Owl which can sometimes be seen roosting on the island in front of the main bird hide. This is a species that is frequently disturbed and whilst the island provides a degree of security, we ask people to be especially careful not to disturb the owls if they are present.
Autumn & Winter species
wigeon, shoveler, tufted duck, long-eared owl, little owl, reed bunting, fieldfare, red kite, water rail, bittern, cattle egret, little egret, lapwing, cormorant.
Spring & Summer species
barn owl, glossy ibis, hobby, marsh harrier, gadwall, reed warbler, sedge warbler, blackcap, garden warbler, marsh harrier, bittern, common tern, reed bunting.
hints and tips
A visit to Deeping Lakes can be easily combined with a trip to some of the neighbouring reserves to make a full day’s birding. Baston Lakes and Willow Tree Fen are only a short drive. The latter site would be a great place to end the day in the winter.
facilities
There is a car park and a circular visitor route includes an easy access track to the hide overlooking the main lake.
As well as the main hide, there is a shelter in the main car park and a viewing screen overlooking the reedbeds.
There are facilities available in nearby Market Deeping and Vine House Farm has a café, farm shop and wildlife pond that can be combined with a visit to Deeping Lakes and/or Willow Tree Fen.
getting here
Deeping Lakes can be found to the south of the level crossing on the B1166, close to Deeping St James. The entrance is on the sharp bend and an access track with speed humps leads to a large car park on the left hand side.
The site is located adjacent to the River Welland and includes a number of flooded gravel pits, noted for their abundance of wildfowl and waterbird communities.
Nearest postcode PE6 8RJ
OS Map Reference TF 187 083
access
Please note, only assistance dogs are allowed on the reserve.
opening times
Open year-round.
reserves & observatories
Deepings Lakes Nature Reserve
A wetland nature reserve with lakes and pools, noted for its wildfowl and waterbird communities making it ideal for birdwatching. Explore the bird hide that looks over the lake or follow the path and discover the wildflower meadow.
