Swan Lane to Grove Lake

Distance 2 miles

At present this is the one section of the Blackwater Valley where there is no riverside footpath. The riverside frontage is all within private ownership and although outline agreements to create a path have been reached with most owners progress to open the path remains stalled until all owners give the go ahead.

The River in this missing section passes a large complex of fishing lakes known as Yateley Lakes. The lakes have gained national renown for the large carp they contain. Anglers will spend days camping beside the lakes to catch one of these fish which are known individually by names such as "Pretty One" and "Dustbin". Also in this complex is Trilakes Country Park: a privately run fishery and country park with children's zoo, café and toilets. Small admission fee. While we await the missing link the following route using public roads is suggested:

1. Turn right up Swan Lane.

2. Take public footpath left just before railway.

3. Turn left and follow Sandhurst High Street.

4. After crossing the end of Yateley Road turn left into Lower Church Road. At the road end turn left then right into entrance of Horseshoe Lake Watersports Centre.

Overlooked by Finchampstead Ridges Horseshoe Lake Watersports Centre is a superb venue for learning non-motorised watersports, such as canoeing, sailing, windsurfing and dragon boating.

5. Heading towards the centre bear left to join the path at the lake side. At lake side, either turn left to rejoin River, then right and follow River to Grove Lake, or turn right and walk round Horseshoe Lake to meet the River at Grove Lake.

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View the next section of the Blackwater Valley Path - Grove Lake