Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve
Know before you go
Dogs
There are some parts of the reserve where dogs are not permitted.
When to visit
Opening times
The Centre is open for booked schools and groups only.If you would like to book an education session, please email us at testwoodlakes@hiwwt.org.uk
Best time to visit
Visit in spring and look out for lapwings, oystercatchers, cuckooflowers and orange-tip butterflies. Summer brings sand martins, emperor dragonflies, black-tailed skimmers and beautiful demoiselles. Winter sees a host of wading birds.About the reserve
Testwood Lakes is a wonderful nature reserve to visit with the family. Rolled gravel paths around the reserve make walking with pushchairs easy. The great variety of birdlife to which Testwood Lakes plays host can be viewed from two accessible hides, and there’s something to see all year round.
Lapwings, oystercatchers and great crested grebes feed and roost on the lakes during the spring, and summer brings beautiful clouds of dragonflies and damselflies. Emperor dragonflies, black-tailed skimmers, southern hawkers and beautiful demoiselles can be seen darting overhead – their striking colour combinations can make for some impressive aerial displays. Winter sees the arrival of migratory birds such as great white egrets, as well as teals, wigeons and shovelers.
This reserve is owned by Southern Water and managed by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.
Please note: There is always the potential for blue-green algae in the water at Testwood Lakes nature reserve. Please do not swim or let your dog swim in the water. Blue-green algae can pose a serious health risk through both ingestion and inhalation.
No kayaking or boating permitted. Fishing is permitted on Little Testwood Lake only with a permit from the Army surplus shop, 43 Rumbridge St, Totton, SO40 9DR