Fleet Pond
On this walk, children will enjoy the viewing platforms over the pond, finding the painted pebbles and plenty of baby birds in late spring.
The Basics
Time: 45 mins
Distance: 3 km
Terrain: Flat, well maintained paths and boardwalks
Pushchairs: Yes
Dogs: Yes, but be mindful of the birds so keep them under close control
Refreshments: Picnic area near car park or Fleet town centre is a short walk away
Toilets: At the train station (not directly on this walk)
Parking: Free car park down a signed track off Cove Road A3013 (Postcode: GU51 2RR - W3W - distract/eyeliner/game). The pond is also right next to the train station if you want to arrive by public transport.
The largest freshwater lake in Hampshire is set within a variety of landscapes from heathland to woodland to marshland. This easy to follow walk traces the circumference of the entire pond, going over boardwalks and bridges with plenty of benches and viewing platforms along the way.
The Route
Heading south from the car park, you will first encounter the picnic area which is amongst woodland with beautifully carved wooden picnic benches.
We then chose the yellow route which laps the entire pond. There are maps on information boards as well as coloured marker posts throughout. The walk is easy to follow anyway by keeping to the path closest to the water’s edge at all times.
There are many benches and viewing platforms along the way where you can take in the views and spot wildlife as well as interpretive boards giving more information about the flora, fauna and history of the area.
Sandy Bay is a little sandy ‘beach’ where there are some benches and the water is shallow where children can splash about in wellies.
In late spring, you can expect to see cygnets, ducklings, goslings and other chicks.
Use this link to find the official walking map for Fleet Pond.
Did you know?
Fleet pond is the largest freshwater body of water in Hampshire.