Bolam Lake is a wonderful, accessible walk in Northumberland. Located near Belsay Hall and 9 miles west of Morpeth, the route around the lake is suitable for both pushchairs and wheelchairs. A version of this post also appears on Dog Friendly North East.
The circular path around the lake is approximately 1 mile in length so nice and easy for little legs too. The lake is free to visit and dogs are welcome.
The photos in this post were taken in Winter 2018 - the lake is lovely to visit at any time of the year.
Bolam Lake - Location & Parking
There is no direct public transport to Bolam Lake. You can catch a direct bus to Belsay from Newcastle and walk (2.5 miles) but this probably isn't suitable for children.
There are three car parks at Bolam Lake - all open during daylight hours (they are locked at night). Parking is FREE for 1 hour (you still need a ticket) and chargeable for anything over this (see below for prices - correct January 2020 ). Use postcode NE20 0HE and follow the signs.
Bolam Lake Walk
As mentioned above, the walk around Bolam Lake is 1 mile (circular route) in length and suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. There is no play park but the woodland setting is fascinating for toddlers so it really isn't needed. There are picnic benches/seating at various points around the walk and it is a flat route.
There are information signs at various points around the walk pointing out walking routes, nature and wildlife you may spot.
Dogs are welcome at Bolam Lake and it is a popular spot for dog walkers - owners are asked to keep their dogs under control and be considerate of the wildlife/other visitors.
The lake is home to lots of birds including swans & geese - we love walking along the jetty to say hello to them.
Swimming in the lake is not permitted due to hidden hazards and mud. You are able to canoe on the lake (excluding breeding season) - book a permit in advance via the visitor centre by calling 01661 881234.
During your walk, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. If you are lucky you may spot roe deer, red squirrels, woodpeckers and nuthatches. Breeding season runs throughout Spring & Summer and it is important to be respectful of any animals or wildlife you may spot.
Bolam Lake is the perfect walk for families/friends looking for an easy short walk with plenty to see and lots of scenery to enjoy and admire. It is definitely one of our favourites.
Bolam Lake Visitor Centre & Cafe
There is a visitor centre, cafe and public toilets by the lake (next to Boathouse Wood Car Park). The cafe accepts cash only and is opening during the following times:
The cafe serves hot and cold drinks, cakes, scones, soup, sandwiches and snacks and local maps/gifts are available to purchase too. Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted inside of the cafe but there is outdoor seating.
Let me know if you have visited Bolam Lake and if you enjoyed your trip or if you fancy visiting this year.
Other posts you may enjoy:
- 50+ Family Walks & Trails in North East England
- 10 of the Best Family Walks with Cafes and Playgrounds nearby
- 11 Woodland Walks to try in North East England
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For more days out ideas, click here to join our North East Days Out Facebook Group. Feel free to share your own photos and recommendations in the group too or ask any questions about advice for days out.
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I have never thought about taking the kids here. We normally go to Big Waters but it is a bit rubbish x
ReplyDeleteCan you sleep overnight in the West Wood Car Park in a motorhome?
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