Hatley's Children's Pit

Small fishing lake tucked away in the Cambridgeshire countryside, Hatley's Children's Pit draws anglers seeking a quiet spot away from the bigger commercial waters near Cambridge. The name's a bit misleading - it's not specifically for children, though the relatively shallow waters and peaceful setting make it suitable for families introducing youngsters to angling.

Expect a modest-sized lake surrounded by farmland, with basic facilities that keep things simple. Coarse fishing is the main draw here, with the usual suspects like roach, perch and the odd pike lurking in the deeper sections. It's the sort of place where you'll spend more time watching dragonflies than landing monster fish, but that's rather the point.

Serious match anglers might find it a bit tame, but families and beginners will appreciate the relaxed atmosphere. No booking system or fancy tackle shop - just turn up with your gear and enjoy a proper old-school fishing experience.

Location-wise, you're well placed for exploring the wider area around Cambridge. Several holiday parks dot the countryside within a few miles, including Gayton Farm and Chittering Park, making it easy to combine a fishing trip with a longer stay. The lake works best as part of a longer Cambridgeshire break rather than a destination in itself.