“Fresh air and lots of excercise; with good facilties “
Bolam Lake is one of Northumberland’s most beautiful country parks. The site consists of a large freshwater lake, which is surrounded by woodland and grassland. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing work around the lake, which travels through the well-established woodland which is both rich in wildlife and artistic landscapes.
Key Species to watch out for include Red Squirrel, Roe Deer, Bullfinch, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Nuthatch and Treecreeper. This is an amazing site for picnics and family days out. If you’re looking for a relaxing walk, with facilities close by and a variety of wetland and woodland birds, Bolam Lakes definitely worth a visit.
The lake is also home to a good selection of Wildfowl, especially during the winter months; and Warblers during the spring/summer. A Smew was recorded in the winter of 2016 which was very popular, as this species is recorded less in our county in recent times.
There is a choice of three car parks, however facilities such as toilets and a cafe can be found in the main car park to the north. There are also some picnic tables in the Pheasant Field. This site is popular with dog walkers and families coming for a day out.
The visitor centre sells information on a series of self-guided trails.
A Great Spotted Woodpecker
In November 2016, over a hundred birdwatchers gathered in the hope of catching a glimpse of a treasured rarity; an ‘Eyebrowed Thrush‘. This rare vagrant usually winters in SE Asia and Indonesia, so to find one in the heart of Northumberland was a welcome surprise. Unfortunately despite the best efforts of lots of enthusiastic birdwatchers, the bird was not re-located the following day. This was not surprising however, as Bolam Lake and the surrounding area, is a large area to cover and there was a large chance this special visitor had passed through or was sheltering from the constant rain showers, deep in the Country Park out of sight.
County
Northumberland
Map Reference
NZ 080 818
Habitats
- Wetland
- Woodland
- Grassland
Access
The country park is free to access.
Facilities
There is a visitor centre with a cafe and shop. There are also toilets close to the visitor centre.
Parking
They are three car parks which are open during daylight and are locked at dusk.
Additional Information
More information is available at » www.northumberland.gov.uk