The A1 Lakes are so-named because of their position adjacent to the Great North Road, but there is no vehicular access from the road. The permissive footpath around Sailing Lake or the public footpath at the north end of the Haul Road can be used to access the A1 Lakes.

The A1 Lakes are part of the recreational zone at Paxton Pits. A1 South is used for water skiing, and A1 North for windsurfing and water skiing. From April to October, birdwatchers should get there early at weekends, as many of the birds move elsewhere during the day.

Reproduced from Ordnance Survey Get-a-map
service, © Crown copyright.