A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland


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.

A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland

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. 

A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland  - map from bus stop


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. 

A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland  - car parking charges


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. 

A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland  - lake in winter

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.

A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland  - bolam lake map

The lake is home to lots of birds including swans & geese - we love walking along the jetty to say hello to them.

A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland  - feeding geese from jetty

A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland  - circle of life sign

A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland - jetty and swans

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.


A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland  - red squirrel information


A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland  - walking on a log

A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland  - accessible pathways

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: 


A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland  - cafe opening 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.


A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland  - cafe location

A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland  - inside of cafe


Let me know if you have visited Bolam Lake and if you enjoyed your trip or if you fancy visiting this year.

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A Guide to Visiting Bolam Lake, Northumberland



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2 comments

  1. I have never thought about taking the kids here. We normally go to Big Waters but it is a bit rubbish x

    ReplyDelete
  2. Can you sleep overnight in the West Wood Car Park in a motorhome?

    ReplyDelete

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