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Woorgreens Lake is a prominent nature reserve nestled in the heart of the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, England. This 9-hectare site, situated approximately 224 metres above sea level, is a testament to nature's reclamation, having been formed in 1981 from a disused open-cast iron mine. Today, it encompasses a diverse landscape of a main lake, marshy areas, and open heathland, making it a significant natural feature between the towns of Cinderford and Coleford.
Visitors consistently praise Woorgreens Lake for its…
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5.0
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28
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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14
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
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11
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 220 m
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Saturday 11 April
12°C
6°C
46 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 26.0 km/h
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The terrain around Woorgreens Lake is generally considered accessible, featuring a mix of well-maintained footpaths, marshy sections, and open heathland. While there are no significant elevation changes, appropriate footwear is highly recommended, especially after rain or when exploring the wetter areas. It's suitable for most abilities, including families and beginners, offering gentle walks rather than strenuous hikes.
Yes, Woorgreens Lake offers several circular walking routes that allow you to explore its diverse habitats. These paths typically loop around the main lake, marsh, and heathland areas. While specific named routes aren't always signposted, the network of footpaths makes it easy to create your own circular walk of varying lengths. Many visitors enjoy combining the lake circuit with paths leading into the adjacent Crabtree Hill area for a longer exploration.
A leisurely walk directly around the main lake and its immediate surroundings can typically be completed within 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and how often you stop for wildlife spotting. If you extend your walk to include the heathland areas or adjacent Crabtree Hill, you could easily spend 1.5 to 2 hours or more exploring the wider reserve.
Woorgreens Lake is indeed suitable for winter hikes, offering a different kind of beauty and opportunities to spot unique wintering bird species like the great grey shrike. For winter visits, it's crucial to wear warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy, waterproof walking boots, as paths can become muddy and marshy. Layers are advisable, and a hat and gloves will enhance your comfort in colder temperatures.
While Woorgreens Lake is situated on the B4226 road, direct public transport links are limited. The most convenient way to reach the reserve is by car, as free parking is available on-site. Visitors relying on public transport would likely need to take a bus to nearby towns like Cinderford or Coleford and then arrange for a taxi or consider a longer walk/cycle from there.
Beyond its renowned dragonflies and diverse birdlife, Woorgreens Lake is a haven for other wildlife. The heathland and marshy areas are vital for amphibians and reptiles, including the rare great crested newt, common lizards, slowworms, grass snakes, and even adders. You might also encounter deer and wild boar, and the reserve is home to various fungi, such as yellow brain fungi and bay boletes. Conservation grazing animals like Exmoor ponies and Highland cattle also roam the reserve, contributing to habitat management.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome at Woorgreens Lake. It's a popular spot for dog walkers, with numerous footpaths suitable for exploring with your canine companion. However, due to the sensitive nature of the wildlife and the presence of conservation grazing animals, it is essential to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a lead, especially near the lake, marsh areas, and where livestock are present. Always clean up after your dog.
Woorgreens Lake itself is a nature reserve without on-site amenities like cafes or pubs. However, it is conveniently located between the towns of Cinderford and Coleford, which offer a range of cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Speech House, a historic hotel and restaurant, is also approximately half a mile east of the lake, providing nearby dining and lodging choices.
No, wild swimming is not permitted in Woorgreens Lake. As a protected nature reserve managed by the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and the Forestry Commission, the focus is on wildlife conservation. Entering the water could disturb sensitive habitats and species, and there are also potential safety concerns due to the lake's history as a flooded mine.
Woorgreens Lake has a fascinating history rooted in industrial activity. The landscape was originally shaped by open-cast iron mine workings. After mining operations ceased around 1980-1981, the disused mine was deliberately flooded in 1981, creating the lake. A nature reserve was subsequently established, growing from an initial seven-hectare lake to over 50 hectares of diverse habitats, transforming an industrial site into a thriving wildlife haven.
Woorgreens Lake is often considered the premier spot in the Forest of Dean for observing dragonflies, with over seventeen different species recorded. While other local lakes and ponds offer good wildlife viewing, Woorgreens stands out for its unique combination of lake, marsh, and heathland habitats, which support an exceptional diversity of birds, amphibians, and reptiles, making it a particularly rich and varied destination for nature enthusiasts.