Pitsford Water

Pitsford Water is a large reservoir east of Brixworth in Northamptonshire. It covers 413 hectares and was built in 1956 to supply Northampton, nine and a half kilometres away. The water is the 34th largest in England and Wales but ranks fourth among artificial lakes in the United Kingdom. A causeway divides the reservoir, with 181 hectares to the north managed as a nature reserve by the Wildlife Trust. The village of Pitsford lies close by, and Brixworth Country Park borders the western shore. The site is important for birds, with over sixty species breeding here. Wintering wildfowl include nationally significant numbers of northern shoveler. Breeding birds such as the great crested grebe, little grebe, teal, kingfisher and reed warbler can be seen. The reservoir also supports a trout fishery run by Anglian Water, with season and day tickets available. Predator fishing for pike takes place in winter, while trout are stocked at about two pounds each. A season ticket holder once landed a fifteen-pound brown trout here. Visitors can walk or cycle around the water park, which offers paths for both activities. Sailing and fishing are also available, with boat hire provided for anglers. The nature reserve’s causeway area offers quieter trails for birdwatching. Brixworth Country Park nearby provides additional routes through woodland and grassland. The reservoir’s wide waters and surrounding countryside make it a place for both active and peaceful visits.