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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Vibrant colors and fewer crowds

Bawsey Country Park
Best Time
Vibrant colors and fewer crowds

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

🐾 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!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Lake
Bawsey Estate and Country Park
Serene waters perfect for canoeing and tranquil reflection. A true hidden gem.

Sandy Beach
Brickyard Lake
Enjoy a warm water wild swim or relax on the sandy shores.

Scenic Walking Routes
Surrounding the lakes
Explore diverse paths with beautiful scenery, offering higher viewpoints over the lakes.

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
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 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!
🏊 Wild Swimming
Enjoy warm, clear waters at the Brickyard Lake's sandy beach. Perfect for a refreshing dip!
☕ Affordable Refreshments
The on-site cafe offers good value meals, including tasty burgers and even dog treats!
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 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!
🏊 Wild Swimming
Enjoy warm, clear waters at the Brickyard Lake's sandy beach. Perfect for a refreshing dip!
☕ Affordable Refreshments
The on-site cafe offers good value meals, including tasty burgers and even dog treats!
📸 Capture the Views
Discover beautiful viewpoints overlooking the lakes – great for photos!
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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,
canoeing on the Great Lake, and enjoying the sandy beach. It's also a popular spot for dog walks.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.
Absolutely! You can enjoy wild swimming in the warm waters of Brickyard Lake, which features a sandy beach.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located in the country park car park that serves food and drinks.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers numerous picturesque spots, including the tranquil Great Lake for serene shots,
the sandy beach at Brickyard Lake, and higher viewpoints that provide panoramic views of the lakes. Autumn colors also offer great photographic opportunities.Bawsey Country Park can be excellent for drone photography, offering unique aerial perspectives of the lakes and surrounding landscape.
However, always be mindful of local drone regulations and privacy.Nature photography is very popular, capturing the diverse landscapes, wildlife, and seasonal changes.
Action shots are also possible during events like the British Jetsport Championship.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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery, or take advantage of the affordable cafe for a convenient meal. 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
The park's dog-friendly ethos is evident, with amenities like the cafe offering treats for canine companions. 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
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, 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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Lakes: Swimming, Canoeing, and Views
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. 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
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. 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
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. 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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