With the clocks having fallen back and many of us now leaving work to dark nights, many of us will be taking every opportunity we can to get outside and get some fresh air at the weekend.
Set in the rural Northumberland countryside and within 20 minutes of the A1, Bolam Lake is a perfect spot to explore this weekend.
The stunning lake sits 5 minutes North of Belsay, just off the A696 past Newcastle Airport and through the village of Ponteland.
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The Country Park is surrounded by stunning Northumbrian countryside with lakeside and woodland routes perfect for a leisurely walk.
And the impressive destination is home to an abundance of wildlife including ducks, swans and red squirrels, with a bird watching hut just off the lake. It is popular with families and dog walkers, and is fully accessible with wooden paths and ramps for prams and wheelchairs.
There’s also a visitor centre with café open on daily during the summer and from Thursday to Sunday during the winter season from October to March, as well as toilet facilities.
Where is Bolam Lake?
Bolam Lake is situated just 5 minutes from Belsay, off the A696.
It is easily accessible from the A1, following signs for Newcastle Airport and then following the A696 through Ponteland, past the Highlander pub and through Belsay village.
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Is there parking?
There are three car parks dotted around the perimeter of the site. The roads surrounding the park have double yellow lines to prevent off street parking.
You do have to pay to park if you’re planning to stay for more than one hour, but you can pay using the ‘PayByPhone’ app and there is signal at the rural spot.
What are the opening times?
There are no official opening times for the country park although signs at the car parks advertise what time the gates will be closed that evening.
The visitor centre and café are open from 10am til 4pm, daily from April to September.
From October to March they are open from 10am til 3pm on Thursday and Friday, then 10am til 4pm on weekends.
Watch as we take a walk around Bolam Lake
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