Testwood Lakes

A haven for wildlife and a valuable water resource can be found together at Testwood Lakes, near Southampton.

Testwood Lakes was built by Southern Water to help ensure enough drinking water is available to supply the people of Southampton and the surrounding areas.

Testwood Lakes is comprised of three distinct areas:

Little Testwood Lake:
The operational heart of the complex, is a reservoir capable of storing 270 million litres or water from the nearby River Test.
Testwood Lake:
A 8.5 hectare natural feature that encourages wildlife and which will be used for boating.
Meadow Lake:
The centrepiece of the newly-developed conservation area, with a bird-hide nearby.

Southern Water is working in partnership with the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust at the site to manage the nature, conservation and recreational aspects of Testwood Lakes.

The new Testwood Lakes Centre, which has a permanent exhibition featuring themes of water, wildlife and conservation is open to schools, community groups and individuals, with facilities such as a well-equipped classroom for up to 60 children and two function rooms available for hire.

For location see map below.

Grid Ref: SU345153

Testwood Lake hosts the annual Solent Scout Regatta with Canoe and Pulling Races. - Photograph curtesy of Stephen White Sandleheath Scouts

 

 

Boating on Testwood Pictures