The Most Beautiful Lakes in Britain

There are many stunning lakes and lochs in the UK – some easily accessible to towns and cities, others located in the middle of the lush countryside. From the dramatic Lake District to the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands, here is our guide to the most beautiful lakes in the country.
Loch Ness
Natural Feature

Lake Vrynwy
Natural Feature

Lake Vrynwy may not technically be a lake (it’s a man-made reservoir, created in the 1800s), but it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful bodies of water in Britain. The large lake lies on the edge of Snowdonia National Park, surrounded by breath-taking countryside and flanked by the Berwyn Mountains. Visit at sunrise or sunset to see the dramatic views highlighted by the sky changing colour.
Coniston Water
Natural Feature, Park

Loch Awe
Natural Feature

Lake Windermere, Lake District
Natural Feature

Loch Lomond
Forest
Derwent Water
Natural Feature

Another beautiful lake located in England’s Lake District, Derwent Water was beloved by celebrated children’s author Beatrix Potter. This striking lake is surrounded by the town of Keswick, Cat Bells fells and the Borrowdale valley, providing picturesque scenery in every direction.
Buttermere
Natural Feature

Buttermere may be small, but it is one of the Lake District’s most popular lakes thanks to its location and surroundings. Nestled in the middle of the National Park, the lake is surrounded by towering peaks, including Haystacks and Red Pike, making it a walker’s paradise.
Lough Neagh
Natural Feature

Lough Neagh is the largest freshwater lake in the whole of the UK – so large that at parts it resembles a sea. It’s surrounded by unspoilt countryside and nature reserves, offering plenty of opportunities for exploring the water by boat or the shoreline on various paths. There are also numerous myths and legends about this enormous stretch of water, including tales of underwater cities and Celtic gods.
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