Cleethorpes Boating Lake

Sightseeing attraction | Cleethorpes | England | United Kingdom

Family friendly activities at Boating Lake

The Cleethorpes Boating Lake is one of the most well-known and popular attractions in Cleethorpes, a charming coastal town in North East Lincolnshire, England. This picturesque lake is located at the southern end of the town, near the local nature reserve, and is a central part of the leisure offering of this traditional seaside town. The Boating Lake offers an idyllic setting that attracts both locals and tourists, combining natural beauty with a variety of activities that make it an ideal spot for a day trip.

Nature experience around Cleethorpes Lake

The lake consists of two main areas connected by a narrow channel, surrounded by well-maintained grassy areas perfect for picnics or leisurely walks. Originally formed by the excavation of clay for the local brick industry, the lake was flooded and transformed into a recreational facility in the early 20th century. Today, the southern part of the lake is a lively spot in the summer, where visitors can rent rowboats, pedal boats, and other watercraft. This activity is particularly popular with families who take the opportunity to glide over the water and explore the small islands in the lake lined with trees and shrubs. Meanwhile, the northern area of the lake is used by anglers who can fish in peace, as well as occasionally by model boat enthusiasts showcasing their intricate replicas. An illuminated fountain in the middle of the northern lake provides an additional visual highlight, especially during evening strolls.

Attractions for kids at Cleethorpes Lake

The surroundings of the Cleethorpes Boating Lake are rich in nature and wildlife. The lake is home to a variety of waterfowl, including ducks, geese, swans, and moorhens, who often approach visitors curiously in hopes of a snack. Particularly striking is a black swan, a small local celebrity. Well-maintained footpaths encircle the lake, offering a short or long walk and a glimpse of the diverse animal and plant life. Near the lake, the terrain borders sand dunes and the nature reserve, providing nature lovers with the opportunity to discover rare bird species or the beauty of the coastal landscape.

Boat rental at Cleethorpes Boating Lake

For families with children, the park offers numerous attractions. A large sand play area with a wooden pirate ship at its center invites play, climbing, and digging, and is a popular meeting spot for young visitors. Additionally, during the summer months, an outdoor paddling pool at the northern end of the lake opens, equipped with a central fountain for refreshing fun. These child-friendly facilities make the Boating Lake a place that brings joy across generations – while the little ones play, adults can enjoy the peace or explore the surroundings.

Recreational opportunities in Cleethorpes seaside town

Another notable feature is the Discovery Centre, a building located directly by the lake that serves as an information and relaxation point. Here, visitors can gain insights into local history and nature, while a café overlooking the lake offers a selection of food and drinks. The center is also a starting point for walks and includes a small shop where bird feed or souvenirs can be purchased. The proximity to the Cleethorpes Promenade and the beach also makes the Boating Lake a perfect stop on the way to the sea, just a short walk away. Visitors can spend the day at the lake and then explore the coast with its golden sandy beaches and famous pier.

The Cleethorpes Boating Lake is deeply ingrained in the identity of the town and reflects its character as a traditional seaside resort that developed from the 19th century onwards thanks to the railway connection from the industrial cities of Yorkshire. Its history as a place of recreation has been carefully preserved over time, and despite modern additions such as the paddling pool or the Discovery Centre, it has retained its original charm. The connection to the Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway running along the lake adds a nostalgic touch and offers another opportunity to enjoy the surroundings.

Contact details

Web
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Phone

Address
Kings Rd
DN35 0AQ Cleethorpes

Map view

Opening hours

Sunday0:00 - 0:00
Monday0:00 - 0:00
Tuesday0:00 - 0:00
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Thursday0:00 - 0:00
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Saturday0:00 - 0:00

Reviews

4232 Reviews

Gary Simpson
07.03.2025

Lovely sunny day, people out enjoying the day but not busy. Nice and relaxing watching the swans, geese, ducks and pigeons.
Shifana Abdul Majeed
06.03.2025

Magical place !!!
Gordon Cresswell
16.04.2021

A lovely place to visit if you like rowing boats
Amanda Parkin
05.03.2025

Lovely walk and a few things for little ones to do
Cassini Fox
18.02.2025

Great for family walks or on your own, steam train close by, oriental express all you can eat, Tap house close by with a cafe great to watch the lake. Plenty of wildlife
Paul Obrien
31.01.2025

The lights at night time is beautiful down across the beach path.
Anne Welburn
28.01.2025

Visited in winter. Area well looked after and clean and tidy. Lots of birds. Toilet open and free, well used area even at this time of year. Good walking in the surrounds.
John Larkin
26.01.2025

A wonderful experience.. plus, mile after mile of Golden sand !!
hayley wilcock
21.01.2025

Nice one place to walk round few places for food and drink and access to toilets. Good for dogs too but need to be kept on lead there's plenty of bins around also to keep the park clean
Michael Scerri
05.01.2025

Amazing place with great food
Alan Jessop
04.01.2025

Very clean and tidy, we visited Christmas day and enjoyed the day. The only thing missing is one or possible two vendors for tea and coffee. It was busy so it would have been worth even a burger van or similar being allowed to trade on the day.
Adam Cowie
06.05.2024

Wonderful
Sara
26.12.2024

It's always lovely to walk round the boating lake when I'm home. Can't believe how many birds live in such a small space!! Could always do with a good clean of bird poop along the paths but not sure that could be done any more than it is. Was a freezing cold day but a good fresh walk. The cafe/bar there is always really nice too. Lovely gift shop upstairs there too - lots of nice stuff made by local artists, and friendly helpful staff.
Rosie Driffill
24.12.2024

Lovely area, plenty of choice to eat or drink nearby. Paddling pool and sand pit play area for kids. Love the boats on the lake in the summer months and the kids love feeding the birds.
karl vessey
19.12.2024

Love to go feed the birds
Rob Head
12.12.2024

Can you fish the boating lake ????

 

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