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The Lake with its associated landscaping dates back to the seventeenth century. It is one of the largest bodies of open water in the Borough of Gateshead. It hosts a wide variety of flora and fauna among which are the locally uncommon plants gypsywort and skullcap, seven recorded species of dragonfly and damselfly, breeding mute swans, little grebe and tufted duck, herons and kingfisher.
Otters from the River Derwent are also frequent visitors and may occasionally be seen playing and feeding around the bridge over the lake, particularly early morning and later in the evening. The River Derwent otter population is of national importance which led to an otter tunnel under the busy Spa Well Road being built by Gateshead Council and Durham Wildlife Trust in 2011 linking the Lake and Field with the river.
Deep silt and underwater plant growth make the lake hazardous for paddling and swimming and fishing is currently not allowed because of the potential impact on lake wildlife. The Lake and Lake Field form part of the Axwell Park Conservation Area and Derwent Valley Wildlife Corridor. Due to their local and regional ecological standing as a Site of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI) they are designated as a Local Wildlife Site
The Lake Field displays a wealth of wildflowers in spring and summer. The perimeter along the wall is managed as a naturalised habitat for the benefit of wildlife such as hedgehogs. The Field is regularly maintained to establish a balance between recreational spaces and wildlife habitats. Early in the year a visitor to the Field may experience ‘baby frog day’
when it is alive with so many tiny ‘froglets’ it is difficult to step off the bridge. In late summer the Field is mowed to ensure the health and continuation of its rare wild flora with the bales of mown meadow hay providing another delightful aspect.
Two mature beech trees dominate the field. These are estimated to be well over 200 years old and are coming to the end of their lives. Another ancient tree in the eastern corner of the field is the Turkey Oak, Quercus Cerris, known to originate from around 1760.
Just before the turn of the present century the Committee embarked on a tree planting programme to provide trees for the next generations. Twenty three trees, most of which are native species, have been planted in a circle on the inside of the perimeter path. In addition a grove of the spectacular white barked Himalayan Birch, Betula Utilis var. Jacquemontii, are to be found near the otter tunnel. In 2012 five elm saplings were planted as part of the Great Brtish Elm Experiment.
When the old Blaydon Tennis Club was relocated some years ago, the Committee took the opportunity to purchase this additional piece of land at the south east corner of the Lake Field. One of the courts was completely rebuilt and refurbished for use by residents.
This wonderful amenity was created from a section of the old Blaydon Tennis Club courts. It has grown over the years to provide a safe and relaxing environment for children and their parents and grandparents. Recently it has been fully fenced to provide a safe environment away from the lake edge. The Play Area equipment is regularly checked and inspected.
Together with the extensive wooded area south of the estate boundary, the woods at the top of Deer Park Way host deer, badger and red squirrel as well as supporting a heronry of regional importance.
The management of this ecologically notable Estate asset, which has recently included significant felling and re-planting of trees, the clearance of undergrowth and the re-establishment of bluebells, is undertaken with advice and permission from Gateshead Council.
