Testwood Lakes

The centre is open to the public in the summer between 1pm and 4pm and in the winter between 12pm and 3pm. 

It's home to a permanent exhibition on water, wildlife and conservation. You can also learn about the 3,000-year-old remains that we uncovered when the site was created.

The centre also runs events for schools and community groups throughout the year.

The nature reserve at Testwood Lakes is a great place to escape into nature with your family all year round.

Catch a glimpse of the local wetland birds from the two accessible bird hides. Look out for lapwings and oystercatchers in the spring and great white egrets and teals in the winter.

If you're taking a stroll around the lakes, information boards along the way will tell you about plants and animals that live in the area.

Take a walk around the lakes on one of the many gravel path routes. The area is mostly flat with some slopes so it's a great place for an easy-going afternoon. You can hike all the way around Testwood Lake (allow an hour) or Little Testwood Lake (allow 30 minutes).

For anglers, fishing is available at Testwood Lakes from June 16 to March 14 during daylight hours only. Please note you will need a permit.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust also run events for schools and community groups throughout the year which are linked to the National Curriculum. Courses for adults also include flintknapping, bird identification, bushcraft and living willow sculpture.