Fishery guide · Oxfordshire
Orchid Lakes
A rebuilt, restocked Thames Valley carp fishery with four very different waters, booked by the night rather than sold as casual day tickets (bar the newer Old Nursery).
“7.8/10 — Lake record over 51lb, with plenty of thirties and forties.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Orchid used to be a fairly traditional two-lake day-ticket complex; the fishery has since rebuilt and restocked heavily, and it now markets itself hard on carp pedigree — "Home of the Thirties", with a stated lake record of 51lb 8oz, 24+ recorded forties and 80+ recorded thirties across the complex.
- 4 lakes: Orchid Lake, Club Lake, Willow Pool, The Old Nursery
- Fish: carp
- Tickets from: Orchid Lake, from per night — £40
- Find it: Dorchester-on-Thames · OX10 7LP
Plan your session
Fishery map of Orchid Lakes
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Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Photos courtesy of Orchid Lakes. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
Which lake suits you?
Based on how each lake is set up — not a ranking.
The full rundown on Orchid Lakes
Orchid used to be a fairly traditional two-lake day-ticket complex; the fishery has since rebuilt and restocked heavily, and it now markets itself hard on carp pedigree — "Home of the Thirties", with a stated lake record of 51lb 8oz, 24+ recorded forties and 80+ recorded thirties across the complex.
Access is mostly by online booking through Swimbooker rather than turning up on spec: Orchid Lake is bookable from £40 a night with exclusive-use options, Club Lake is a private group water from £220 a night, and Willow Pool is a one-acre retreat-style lake with its own accommodation from £150 a night. The Old Nursery is the newer, more casual water, aimed at method, stalking and junior fishing, with its day-ticket pricing listed as TBC at the time of checking.
Reviews are generally warm about the bailiffs and how tidy the place is kept, but it's worth knowing this is a premium-feeling, rules-heavy venue rather than a cheap turn-up pond — one returning angler's 2026 online review flagged being charged £10 for a buggy run to the swim as an unwelcome surprise after a previous visit, which we've included rather than only quoting the five-star comments.
Straight from anglers online
Short, unedited extracts from public reviews, credited to the person who posted them. Not checked by us and not a Tackle Index view.
“Just got back from 48 hrs social on the main lake what a lovely place the guys have created. The place is spotless, The owner and the bailiffs couldn't of been any more help with spots and wraps. Will definitely be back 10/10 cheers Guys.”
— Ray, Mar 2026 · Google reviews (via Exa)
“I headed on up to orchid for a few days just for the possibility of catching one of there stunning fish, unfortunately I had no luck but I'll be definitely coming back again ... clean tidy mud free swims (perfect for my winter session) and better still they offer a buggy run which is a result!”
— Dave, Feb 2026 · Google reviews (via Exa)
“I returned to the lake after a long time away. I was shocked that they're now charging £10 (return) to take your gear to your peg.”
— Google reviewer, Undated · Google reviews (via Exa)
Orchid Lakes FAQs
Do I need to book Orchid Lakes in advance?
For Orchid Lake, Club Lake and Willow Pool, yes — all are booked by the night through the fishery's official Swimbooker page. The Old Nursery is the one day-ticket water, though check current pricing with the office first.
Is there a buggy to help carry gear?
Orchid Lake offers a buggy drop-off, though at least one returning angler's 2026 review flagged being charged for it where it may once have been free — worth asking the price before you load up.
What's Orchid Lakes known for?
Big, old carp — the fishery markets itself as the "Home of the Thirties" with a stated 51lb 8oz lake record and dozens of recorded thirties and forties.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
We haven't found a tackle shop on site at Orchid Lakes. Sort your bait and end tackle before you travel, as there's no guarantee of anything close by near Dorchester-on-Thames.
Do I need to bring food?
We haven't seen any food on site, so bring your own grub and drinks. A flask and a stove (where allowed) make a long day much better.
Are there toilets on site?
Yes — the fishery lists landpod accommodation, toilet and cook station at willow pool.
Is there parking, and how close is it to the swims?
The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off. Bring a barrow in case it's a walk.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
OX10 7LP. OX10 7LP sits on Abingdon Road just outside Dorchester-on-Thames. The fishery asks everyone to report to the office on arrival rather than walking straight to the lakes, so follow the signed entrance rather than heading for the first bit of water you see.
How much is a ticket?
Orchid Lake, from per night: £40; Club Lake, from per night: £220; Willow Pool, from per night: £150; Old Nursery, day / half day: TBC — ask the office. Prices last checked 2026-10-01 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Day tickets are available on The Old Nursery. Busy weekends can fill up, so ring ahead if you've got your heart set on a swim.
What fish are in there?
Across the lakes you'll find carp. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
4 — Orchid Lake (17.6), Club Lake (2), Willow Pool (1), The Old Nursery (unconfirmed).
Is night fishing allowed?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Can I bring my dog?
Not covered in the rules we've checked. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Are bait boats allowed?
We haven't seen a bait-boat rule listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Do I need barbless hooks?
No — Micro barbed hooks only.
Do I need my own unhooking mat or cradle?
Yes, it's required — Nets must be at least 42 inches; mats must be padded and large enough for a 50lb fish.
Is it suitable for disabled anglers?
We haven't seen disabled access listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Do I need a rod licence?
Yes — anyone 13 or over fishing in England and Wales needs an Environment Agency rod licence (or Natural Resources Wales in Wales), on top of your fishery ticket.
When's the best time of year to fish here?
Late spring through autumn is prime for most species. Check our live weather edge for this venue before you go — it updates daily.
Anglers' photos
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Pre-book only
Orchid Lake: the flagship water — pure carp, no distractions
The flagship water, with a genuinely big, old stock but a premium nightly booking price.
- Fishing Quality
- 9/10
- Swims & Banks
- 8/10
- Facilities
- 7/10
- Ease of Access
- 6/10
- Value for Money
- 6/10
Fishery-stated record of 51lb 8oz and a deep head of thirties and forties.
22 purpose-built swims (17 single, 5 double) across 17.6 acres.
Dip tanks, buggy drop-off and fishery office check-in; no café on site.
Booked by the night via Swimbooker rather than a turn-up ticket.
From £40 a night — fair for the stock, but not cheap casual fishing.
- Size
- 17.6 acres
- Swims
- 22
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Orchid Lake is the fishery's main event at roughly 17.6 acres, with 17 single swims and 5 double swims and a maximum of 25 anglers on at once. The fishery deliberately keeps it carp-only, with purpose-built swims around margins, bars and channels that it says reward proper watercraft rather than chuck-it-and-chance-it fishing.
An older FishAdviser listing describes this as part of a smaller two-lake complex with carp to 30lb, which gives a sense of how far the stock and the swims have moved on since that write-up — treat the older figure as history rather than today's picture.
The fishery states a lake record of 51lb 8oz, multiple forties, a deep head of thirties and huge numbers of twenties, describing the stock as old, characterful fish rather than quick-grown ones.
Lake photographs
A look around Orchid Lake
Photos courtesy of Orchid Lakes. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
Suits
- Experienced carp anglers chasing genuinely big, old fish
- Anglers happy to book a night in advance rather than turn up
Maybe not for
- Casual anglers wanting a cheap, spontaneous session
- Anyone put off by a long rules list
Bait, rigs & seasons
- One Google reviewer (Feb 2026) rated the fishery highly but said they blanked over several winter days despite help from the bailiffs, which is a fair reminder that this is a genuine challenge water, not a guaranteed-bite pond. — Google reviews (via Exa library listing), reviews dated 2026
How we'd fish Orchid Lake
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On a big lake with gravel bars, a good bed of bait on or behind a bar gives roaming fish a reason to stop and feed for longer.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Spread the bait with a spod or throwing stick — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
Kit worth a look for this lake
These open Amazon search results — check it’s the right version before you buy.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Orchid Lake FAQs
Can I just turn up and fish Orchid Lake?
No — it's booked by the night through the fishery's official Swimbooker page, from £40 a night, with exclusive-use options for groups.
How many anglers fish Orchid Lake at once?
The fishery caps it at 25 anglers across 17 single and 5 double swims.
What's the lake record on Orchid Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: The fishery states a lake record of 51lb 8oz, multiple forties, a deep head of thirties and huge numbers of twenties, describing the stock as old, characterful fish rather than quick-grown ones. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Orchid Lake?
carp. The fishery states a lake record of 51lb 8oz, multiple forties, a deep head of thirties and huge numbers of twenties, describing the stock as old, characterful fish rather than quick-grown ones.
How big is Orchid Lake and how many swims?
Around 17.6 acres with 22 swims. The flagship water — pure carp, no distractions.
Which baits work well on Orchid Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Orchid Lake further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Orchid Lake get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Orchid Lake?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Orchid Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Orchid Lake?
We've got 1 tip for Orchid Lake in the tips section above. We don't rank pegs — the fish move, and yesterday's hotspot is today's dead water. Watch the water when you arrive.
Can I fish Orchid Lake on a day ticket?
You'll need to book Orchid Lake in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on Orchid Lake?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Orchid Lake suit?
Good for: Experienced carp anglers chasing genuinely big, old fish; Anglers happy to book a night in advance rather than turn up. Less suited to: Casual anglers wanting a cheap, spontaneous session; Anyone put off by a long rules list.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Pre-book only
Club Lake: a small, private group lake with its own social area
A small, private group lake, priced for exclusive hire rather than a per-angler day ticket.
- Fishing Quality
- 7/10
- Swims & Banks
- 6/10
- Facilities
- 7/10
- Ease of Access
- 6/10
- Value for Money
- 5/10
Fishery-stated record of 34lb 2oz in a tightly managed, smaller water.
Capped at 4 anglers, with a dedicated social/BBQ area.
Private, controlled setting with its own facilities.
Booked by the night, exclusive-use only.
£220 a night buys the whole lake for up to four, which suits groups more than solo anglers.
- Size
- 2 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Club Lake is rebuilt and run as a private-hire water for up to four anglers plus non-fishing guests, with a purpose-built social and BBQ area. The fishery pitches it at groups and anglers who want a calmer, more controlled session away from the bigger lake.
Because it's a private booking rather than a shared day ticket, you're effectively hiring the whole lake for your group rather than sharing swims with strangers.
The fishery states a lake record of 34lb 2oz and describes the stock as serious carp in a smaller, controlled water.
Lake photographs
A look around Club Lake
Photos courtesy of Orchid Lakes. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
Suits
- Small groups wanting a private, exclusive session
- Anglers who value a quieter, social setting over casting distance
Maybe not for
- Solo anglers on a budget — the per-night price reflects exclusive access for the whole lake
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Club Lake
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On wide, open water the fish move about a lot — a decent bed of bait at range holds a passing group long enough to get a bite.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Spread the bait with a spod or throwing stick — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
Kit worth a look for this lake
These open Amazon search results — check it’s the right version before you buy.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Club Lake FAQs
Can I share Club Lake with strangers to cut the cost?
No — it's sold as a private booking for up to 4 anglers plus non-fishing guests, not a per-angler day ticket.
What's the lake record on Club Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: The fishery states a lake record of 34lb 2oz and describes the stock as serious carp in a smaller, controlled water. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Club Lake?
carp. The fishery states a lake record of 34lb 2oz and describes the stock as serious carp in a smaller, controlled water.
How big is Club Lake and how many swims?
Around 2 acres. A small, private group lake with its own social area.
Which baits work well on Club Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Club Lake further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Club Lake get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Club Lake?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Orchid Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Club Lake?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Club Lake on a day ticket?
You'll need to book Club Lake in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on Club Lake?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Club Lake suit?
Good for: Small groups wanting a private, exclusive session; Anglers who value a quieter, social setting over casting distance. Less suited to: Solo anglers on a budget — the per-night price reflects exclusive access for the whole lake.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Pre-book only
Willow Pool: a one-acre 'retreat with rods' for up to four anglers
A one-acre 'retreat with rods' built around accommodation as much as fishing.
- Fishing Quality
- 7/10
- Swims & Banks
- 5/10
- Facilities
- 8/10
- Ease of Access
- 6/10
- Value for Money
- 6/10
Fish to 30lb-plus in a small, intimate water.
Just one acre, so limited room to roam between spots.
Landpod accommodation, toilet, cook station and wood burner included.
Booked by the night, capped at 4 anglers plus guests.
£150 a night reflects the included accommodation, not just the fishing.
- Size
- 1 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Willow Pool is a small, intimate lake with its own landpod accommodation, toilet, cook station, wood burner and outdoor seating — the fishery explicitly markets it as a retreat as much as a fishing session, aimed at couples, friends or family wanting peace and seclusion alongside the carp fishing.
At a published 1 acre it's by far the smallest water on site, so don't expect to roam between swims the way you could on the main lake.
The fishery describes fish to 30lb-plus in a one-acre water created from a previously unfished section of Orchid Lake.
Lake photographs
A look around Willow Pool
Photos courtesy of Orchid Lakes. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
Suits
- Couples or small groups wanting an accommodation-included trip
- Anglers who want a quiet, low-pressure water alongside their catch
Maybe not for
- Anyone wanting a big, roomy lake to spread out on
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Willow Pool
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Venue rule: Fixed leads are banned here, so use a lead clip set to drop the lead or an inline lead.
Kit worth a look for this lake
These open Amazon search results — check it’s the right version before you buy.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Willow Pool FAQs
Does Willow Pool come with somewhere to sleep?
Yes — the fishery lists landpod accommodation, a toilet and a cook station as part of the booking.
What's the lake record on Willow Pool?
Going by what the fishery says: The fishery describes fish to 30lb-plus in a one-acre water created from a previously unfished section of Orchid Lake. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Willow Pool?
carp. The fishery describes fish to 30lb-plus in a one-acre water created from a previously unfished section of Orchid Lake.
How big is Willow Pool and how many swims?
Around 1 acres. A one-acre 'retreat with rods' for up to four anglers.
Which baits work well on Willow Pool?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Willow Pool further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Willow Pool get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Willow Pool?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Orchid Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Willow Pool?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Willow Pool on a day ticket?
You'll need to book Willow Pool in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on Willow Pool?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Willow Pool suit?
Good for: Couples or small groups wanting an accommodation-included trip; Anglers who want a quiet, low-pressure water alongside their catch. Less suited to: Anyone wanting a big, roomy lake to spread out on.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
The Old Nursery: the newer, more casual water — method, stalking and junior fishing
The casual, day-ticket option, aimed at juniors, stalking and method work.
- Fishing Quality
- 6/10
- Swims & Banks
- 6/10
- Facilities
- 6/10
- Ease of Access
- 8/10
- Value for Money
- 6/10
400+ carp to 22lb — plenty of action rather than specimen size.
Smaller, more informal water than the other three.
Shares the wider site's check-in and dip-tank facilities.
Day and half-day tickets, no overnight booking required.
Price was listed as TBC when checked — ask before travelling.
- Size
- unconfirmed acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
The Old Nursery was created from the original channel section of the complex and, unlike the other three waters here, is pitched as a day (and half-day) water rather than an overnight booking — though at the time of checking the fishery listed its price as TBC, so it's worth ringing ahead.
With 400-plus carp to 22lb, it's aimed squarely at anglers wanting a busier, more forgiving session: stalking, method feeder work and introducing juniors to carp fishing, rather than chasing the lake-record fish that live in Orchid Lake itself.
The fishery describes more than 400 carp to 22lb, aimed at method, stalking and junior fishing.
Lake photographs
A look around The Old Nursery
Photos courtesy of Orchid Lakes. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
Suits
- Juniors and newer carp anglers
- Stalking and method-feeder sessions
- Anyone wanting a shorter, cheaper visit than the booked lakes
Maybe not for
- Specimen hunters chasing Orchid's biggest fish
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish The Old Nursery
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On wide, open water the fish move about a lot — a decent bed of bait at range holds a passing group long enough to get a bite.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Spread the bait with a spod or throwing stick — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
Kit worth a look for this lake
These open Amazon search results — check it’s the right version before you buy.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The Old Nursery FAQs
How much does a day ticket cost on the Old Nursery?
The fishery's own page listed this as TBC when we checked — call the office for the current price before travelling.
What's the lake record on The Old Nursery?
Going by what the fishery says: The fishery describes more than 400 carp to 22lb, aimed at method, stalking and junior fishing. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in The Old Nursery?
carp. The fishery describes more than 400 carp to 22lb, aimed at method, stalking and junior fishing.
How big is The Old Nursery and how many swims?
Around unconfirmed acres. The newer, more casual water — method, stalking and junior fishing.
Which baits work well on The Old Nursery?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for The Old Nursery further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does The Old Nursery get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on The Old Nursery?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Orchid Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on The Old Nursery?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish The Old Nursery on a day ticket?
Yes — The Old Nursery is on the day ticket. Tickets: Orchid Lake, from per night £40; Club Lake, from per night £220; Willow Pool, from per night £150; Old Nursery, day / half day TBC — ask the office (last checked 2026-10-01).
Is night fishing allowed on The Old Nursery?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does The Old Nursery suit?
Good for: Juniors and newer carp anglers; Stalking and method-feeder sessions; Anyone wanting a shorter, cheaper visit than the booked lakes. Less suited to: Specimen hunters chasing Orchid's biggest fish.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Venue Rule Checker
- No
Can I walk straight to the lakes?
You must report to the office on arrival — walking round the lakes before checking in is not allowed.
- No
Fixed leads or leaders?
All leaders are banned, tubing only, and rig checks are carried out regularly.
- No
Fake/imitation baits?
No fake baits — plastics, fake sweetcorn, foam or zig bugs are banned.
- Must
Minimum net and mat size?
Nets must be at least 42 inches; mats must be padded and large enough for a 50lb fish.
- No
Can I bring my own particles?
Particles must be bought on site; your own particles (including nuts) aren't allowed, and sweetcorn is banned outright.
- No
Barbed hooks?
Micro barbed hooks only.
- Must
Minimum mainline strength?
A minimum of 15lb mainline is required at all times, including on zig rigs.
- No
Can I leave my rods unattended?
No rods are to be left unattended — anyone found doing so will be asked to leave.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 1 October 2026. Rules change — always check with the fishery before you go.
Tips & guides worth reading
How we'd fish each lake
Our own suggestions, worked out from each lake's features, its main fish and the venue rules. They're tried-and-tested methods, not reports from this venue, so watch the water and ask in the tackle shop on the day.
Orchid Lake
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On a big lake with gravel bars, a good bed of bait on or behind a bar gives roaming fish a reason to stop and feed for longer.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Spread the bait with a spod or throwing stick — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
Club Lake
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On wide, open water the fish move about a lot — a decent bed of bait at range holds a passing group long enough to get a bite.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Spread the bait with a spod or throwing stick — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
Willow Pool
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Venue rule: Fixed leads are banned here, so use a lead clip set to drop the lead or an inline lead.
The Old Nursery
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On wide, open water the fish move about a lot — a decent bed of bait at range holds a passing group long enough to get a bite.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Spread the bait with a spod or throwing stick — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
Good background reading. Most of it is a few years old, so treat it as a starting point and ask on the day.
- Orchid Lakes listing — FishAdviser, undated, describes older two-lake layout and carp to 30lb
- Orchid Lakes fishing club guide — Zentackle, undated third-party write-up
- Orchid Lakes reviews — Google reviews (via Exa library listing), reviews dated 2026
Videos linked by the fishery
What anglers reckon
7.8/10 from Tackle Index: Lake record over 51lb, with plenty of thirties and forties.
Straight from anglers online
Short, unedited extracts from public reviews, credited to the person who posted them. Not checked by us and not a Tackle Index view.
“Just got back from 48 hrs social on the main lake what a lovely place the guys have created. The place is spotless, The owner and the bailiffs couldn't of been any more help with spots and wraps. Will definitely be back 10/10 cheers Guys.”
— Ray, Mar 2026 · Google reviews (via Exa)
“I headed on up to orchid for a few days just for the possibility of catching one of there stunning fish, unfortunately I had no luck but I'll be definitely coming back again ... clean tidy mud free swims (perfect for my winter session) and better still they offer a buggy run which is a result!”
— Dave, Feb 2026 · Google reviews (via Exa)
“I returned to the lake after a long time away. I was shocked that they're now charging £10 (return) to take your gear to your peg.”
— Google reviewer, Undated · Google reviews (via Exa)
Our take on the feedback
Our read
Checked Sept '26 — “A rebuilt, restocked Thames Valley carp fishery with four very different waters, booked by the night rather than sold as casual day tickets (bar the newer Old Nursery).”
This is our own summary of recurring public feedback and the venue details we checked, not a copied customer review or a promise you’ll catch. Feedback changes, so we keep it separate from the Tackle Index score.
Angler score
What our readers rate Orchid Lakes
No angler score yet — nobody's reviewed Orchid Lakes here. Be the first and get the score started.