The breath-taking Great Lake at Bawsey Country Park.
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Bawsey Country Park

4.3
·570 reviews·, United Kingdom

A serene Norfolk gem with beautiful lakes, warm wild swimming, and dog-friendly trails. Perfect for peaceful walks and outdoor adventures.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Vibrant colors and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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The breath-taking Great Lake at Bawsey Country Park.

Bawsey Country Park

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Vibrant colors and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Norfolk gem with beautiful lakes, warm wild swimming, and dog-friendly trails. Perfect for peaceful walks and outdoor adventures.

4.3
(570 reviews)

"Such a hidden gem with amazing scenery, perfect for a family day out!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun

A fantastic spot for dog walks! Your furry friends will love exploring the trails.

🛶 Canoe Adventures

Rent a Canadian canoe for a peaceful paddle on the Great Lake. Pure tranquility!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Lake

The Great Lake

Bawsey Estate and Country Park

Serene waters perfect for canoeing and tranquil reflection. A true hidden gem.

Sandy Beach

Sandy Beach

Brickyard Lake

Enjoy a warm water wild swim or relax on the sandy shores.

Scenic Walking Routes

Scenic Walking Routes

Surrounding the lakes

Explore diverse paths with beautiful scenery, offering higher viewpoints over the lakes.

The On-site Cafe

The On-site Cafe

Country Park Carpark

Affordable and tasty food, including great burgers and options for dogs.

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Planning Your Visit

Parking & Access

Parking is available on-site for a fee, typically around £5 for a few hours. While some reviews mention it's not too bad, consider public transport from King's Lynn for a cheaper option if available.Reddit Check bus schedules beforehand.

Best Footwear & Gear

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the varied terrain around the lakes. If you plan on wild swimming, bring appropriate swimwear and a towel. The park offers beautiful scenery year-round, so dress for the weather.

Best Times

When
Autumn mornings
Why
Vibrant colors and fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warm water for swimming
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Who’s into Swinging 🤣I gave it a go today!! 🤣🩷🤣Loved it 🤣🤣🤣@Bawsey Country Park #Walking #beautiful #swinging #swing #countryside #love
cath_carter_71
10 likes • 651 views

🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun

A fantastic spot for dog walks! Your furry friends will love exploring the trails. InstagramReddit

🛶 Canoe Adventures

Rent a Canadian canoe for a peaceful paddle on the Great Lake. Pure tranquility! Instagram

A perfect day at Bawsey Country Park for the British Jetsport Championship! Our drone got a bird’s-eye view of the thrilling races, the vibrant crowds, and the stunning scenery. Who else wishes they were here? 😎 \#jetsport \#jetski \#racing \#dronephotography \#watersport \#bawseycountrypark \#britishjetsportchampionship \#dronestagram \#TheDroneGuyUK \#eventphotography
the_drone_guy_uk
25 likes • 1.1K views
Living my best life @bawsey_country_park #livingmybestlife #dogwalk #dogfriendly #cockalier #cockalierspaniel #cockaliersofinstagram
olive_the_cockalier
119 likes • 423 views

🏊 Wild Swimming

Enjoy warm, clear waters at the Brickyard Lake's sandy beach. Perfect for a refreshing dip! Reddit

☕ Affordable Refreshments

The on-site cafe offers good value meals, including tasty burgers and even dog treats! Reddit

Autumn at Bawsey Country park #autumn #bawseycountrypark #mushrooms #colours #sundaysaunters
sundaysaunters
47 likes • 201 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun

A fantastic spot for dog walks! Your furry friends will love exploring the trails. InstagramReddit

🛶 Canoe Adventures

Rent a Canadian canoe for a peaceful paddle on the Great Lake. Pure tranquility! Instagram

🏊 Wild Swimming

Enjoy warm, clear waters at the Brickyard Lake's sandy beach. Perfect for a refreshing dip! Reddit

☕ Affordable Refreshments

The on-site cafe offers good value meals, including tasty burgers and even dog treats! Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Discover beautiful viewpoints overlooking the lakes – great for photos! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(570 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Bawsey Country Park is a highly-rated hidden gem, praised for its beautiful scenery, warm wild swimming opportunities, and dog-friendly atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the affordable cafe and the tranquil environment, making it a perfect spot for walks and relaxation.

"Nice area for walking and wild swimming. Warm water.Nice sandy beach. Plenty of walking routes available. There are also toilets and small shop with refreshemnts. Easy access by public transport from Kings Lynn bus station: Daily return bus costs 5£ what and it is cheaper than two single tickets"

Aleksandra Kukulska

"This was our first time visiting this lovely country park. We arrived in the car park wasn’t that full Drove past drove past Mum‘s house which was good, so we went to the café first because we arrived at lunchtime, and had a couple of breakfasts, the prices were very good for what you got, a £6 was ample! We also had some coffees which weren’t expensive at all, you can even pay a pound for your dog to have a sausage! After our lunch which we went for a walk around the big lake, it did rain a little bit but that did not harbour our enjoyment of this beautiful lake as there’s plenty of shelter in the woods. We will definitely be back again. Car parking for a couple of hours was £5, not too bad probably the same as you would pay to go shopping somewhere else, there’s plenty more walks to go on, next time we will venture further. A lovely day."

Sean Watson

"Lovely place to go for a walk. The scenery is amazing. Such a hidden gem. There is a coffee shop, which serves food and drinks.
Some beautiful higher viewpoints to overlook the lakes. Perfect for a family day out. Take a picnic or eat at the coffee.
You have to pay for parking, but it's well worth a visit.
We loved it!"

Krisztian Bakos

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Warm wild swimming
Dog-friendly

What People Dislike

Parking fee

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bawsey Country Park is accessible by car, with on-site parking available for a fee. For a more budget-friendly option, consider public transport from King's Lynn bus station, which offers daily return trips for around £5.Reddit Always check current bus schedules before your visit.

Yes, there is a car park at Bawsey Country Park. Parking fees typically apply, often around £5 for a couple of hours.Reddit It's generally not too full, but can get busier during peak times.

Yes, public transport is an option. You can take a bus from King's Lynn bus station. This can be a cheaper alternative to driving and parking.Reddit

The park is located near King's Lynn in Norfolk. Driving directions will depend on your starting point, but it's generally well-signposted once you're in the local area.

Bawsey Country Park is generally easy to find, especially if you are using GPS or a navigation app. It's a well-known local spot for walks and outdoor activities.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Bawsey Country Park itself is generally free, but there is a charge for parking.Reddit This covers the upkeep of the grounds and facilities.

Bawsey Country Park is typically open year-round during daylight hours. Specific opening times for facilities like the cafe may vary, so it's best to check their official channels if you have specific needs.

Parking at Bawsey Country Park usually costs around £5 for a few hours.Reddit This fee contributes to the maintenance of the park.

While there aren't specific entry discounts mentioned, using public transport from King's Lynn can be a cost-effective alternative to parking fees.Reddit

Advance booking for parking is not typically required or offered. You can pay for parking upon arrival at the designated car park.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Bawsey Country Park offers a variety of activities including walking, wild swimming in the warm waters of Brickyard Lake,Reddit canoeing on the Great Lake,Instagram and enjoying the sandy beach. It's also a popular spot for dog walks.InstagramReddit

Yes, Bawsey Country Park is very dog-friendly! It's a favorite location for dog walks, with plenty of space for them to explore and enjoy the scenery.InstagramReddit

Absolutely! You can enjoy wild swimming in the warm waters of Brickyard Lake, which features a sandy beach.Reddit It's a popular spot for a refreshing dip.

Yes, there are toilets available at Bawsey Country Park, typically located near the car park and cafe area.Reddit

The scenery is described as beautiful and amazing, with lovely walks surrounding the lakes. There are also higher viewpoints offering stunning vistas over the water.Reddit

🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located in the country park car park that serves food and drinks.Reddit They offer affordable meals, including well-cooked burgers, and even a sausage for dogs for a small fee.

The cafe offers a range of options, including breakfasts and burgers. Reviewers have praised the quality and value for money, noting that the burgers are not pre-formed patties and are cooked perfectly.Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned as designated picnic areas, the park's natural beauty and open spaces make it ideal for bringing your own picnic to enjoy.Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy in the park. This is a great option if you prefer to picnic or want to save on costs.

The cafe itself may have specific rules regarding dogs inside, but the park grounds are very dog-friendly, and you can certainly enjoy refreshments after a walk with your pet.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The park offers numerous picturesque spots, including the tranquil Great Lake for serene shots,Instagram the sandy beach at Brickyard Lake, and higher viewpoints that provide panoramic views of the lakes.Reddit Autumn colors also offer great photographic opportunities.Instagram

Bawsey Country Park can be excellent for drone photography, offering unique aerial perspectives of the lakes and surrounding landscape.Instagram However, always be mindful of local drone regulations and privacy.

Nature photography is very popular, capturing the diverse landscapes, wildlife, and seasonal changes.Instagram Action shots are also possible during events like the British Jetsport Championship.Instagram+1

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial photography or drone usage, it's advisable to check with park management for any specific guidelines or permits required.

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly stunning over the lakes.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bawsey Country Park is an excellent choice for a family day out. The open spaces and varied walking routes provide plenty of room for children to explore and burn energy. The sandy beach at Brickyard Lake is a hit with kids, offering a fun spot for play and even a safe place for them to paddle or swim in the warm water.Reddit

Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery, or take advantage of the affordable cafe for a convenient meal.Reddit The park's dog-friendly nature also means families can bring their pets along, adding to the fun. The opportunity to go canoeing on the Great Lake can be a memorable adventure for older children, creating lasting family memories.

🐶 Dog Owners

If you're a dog owner, Bawsey Country Park should be high on your list. It's consistently described as a fantastic dog walk location, with ample space for your pets to roam and explore off-leash in designated areas.InstagramReddit The diverse trails and open fields are perfect for energetic pups.

The park's dog-friendly ethos is evident, with amenities like the cafe offering treats for canine companions.Reddit This makes it a stress-free and enjoyable outing for both you and your furry friend. The beautiful scenery provides a wonderful backdrop for your adventures together.

💰 Budget Travelers

Bawsey Country Park offers great value for budget-conscious travelers. While there's a parking fee, it's generally considered reasonable.Reddit The park itself has no entry fee, allowing you to enjoy its natural beauty for free.

To keep costs down, pack a picnic to enjoy by the lakes. The on-site cafe is also noted for its affordable prices and good value meals,Reddit making it a cost-effective option if you prefer not to bring your own food. Opting for public transport from King's Lynn can further reduce expenses compared to driving and parking.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Lakes: Swimming, Canoeing, and Views

Bawsey Country Park is defined by its beautiful lakes, offering diverse ways to experience them. Brickyard Lake is renowned for its warm water and sandy beach, making it a popular spot for wild swimming.Reddit The water temperature is often pleasant, encouraging visitors to take a dip. For those seeking a more active water experience, canoeing on the Great Lake is highly recommended. Renting a Canadian canoe allows for a peaceful and serene journey across the water, offering a unique perspective and a chance for quiet reflection.Instagram

Beyond water activities, the park provides stunning scenic walking routes that encircle the lakes. These paths offer varied terrain and opportunities to discover beautiful higher viewpoints from which to overlook the expansive lakes.Reddit Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more invigorating hike, the walking trails cater to different preferences. The park's natural beauty is a significant draw, with many visitors praising its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings.

A Dog-Lover's Paradise

Bawsey Country Park is a true haven for dog owners, consistently praised as a wonderful dog walk destination. The expansive grounds and varied trails provide ample space for canine companions to explore, run, and enjoy the outdoors to their fullest.InstagramReddit Many visitors highlight how much their dogs love the park, making it a go-to spot for regular outings.

The park's dog-friendly nature extends to practicalities, with the on-site cafe even offering a small sausage for dogs for a nominal fee.Reddit This thoughtful touch enhances the experience for pet owners, ensuring their furry friends are catered for. The combination of beautiful scenery and a welcoming environment for pets makes Bawsey Country Park a top choice for those who want to share their outdoor adventures with their four-legged family members.

Seasonal Charm and Events

Bawsey Country Park showcases its beauty throughout the year, with autumn being a particularly striking season. The park transforms with vibrant colors, offering a picturesque backdrop for walks and photography.Instagram This seasonal charm adds another layer to the visitor experience, inviting return trips to witness the changing landscapes.

Beyond its natural allure, the park also hosts events that add excitement to the calendar. It has been a venue for the British Jetsport Championship, drawing crowds and offering thrilling water sports action.Instagram+1 These events can provide a dynamic contrast to the park's usual tranquility, offering visitors a chance to experience the area in a different light. Whether seeking peaceful nature or lively events, Bawsey Country Park offers a diverse appeal.

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