Top 18 Lakes around Disley
Best lakes around Disley are found near the edge of the Peak District National Park, offering access to various notable lakes and reservoirs. This region is characterized by its scenic landscapes, including the Goyt Valley, which hosts several significant bodies of water. Disley serves as a gateway to these natural features, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. The area combines natural beauty with historical significance, featuring reservoirs built for water supply and former mill ponds.
Best lakes around Disley
- The most…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Errwood Reservoir
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Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir
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Descent from Pym's Chair to Errwood Reservoir
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Roman Lakes, Marple
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Built by industrialist Samuel Oldknow, it …
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Toddbrook Reservoir
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Popular around Disley
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Tips from the Community
Still work going on to secure the Dam Wall after the breach in 2019
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The Errwood Circular route offers panoramic views during the 7.2 km walk, which should take around 2 hours. It's advised to wear walking shoes or boots, especially after rain, as the narrow path on the far side can get muddy.
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The Errwood Reservoir was completed in 1967, it supplies drinking water to Stockport and the surrounding area.
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a really fast descent from Pym's chair, down to Erwood reservoir
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Brilliant place to visit and easy to walk to from Errwood Hall Car Park - Buxton SK11 0AR. Great little work with a doggo by your side, especially when the ice cream van is around which also sells doggo ice cream for £2.50 a tub!! Treat for the furry friend :)
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A nice ride down but be careful. It is narrow and usually lots of cars heading back up. The bottom section is very rough with major potholes. Many punctures on that section.
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The Park itself first of all started off as part of the “Andrews” estate originating in the 1820’s. At the time it incorporated a mine, a cotton mill and the lake. Later on in 1968 it became one of England’s first country parks, and now attracts over a quarter million visitors a year. They come to enjoy the natural beauty of ancient woodland along the river valley; in the foothills of the Peak District National Park. Mr George Andrew originally built the mill and made the man made lake (Canal). He also required a large workforce for the operation of the mill; so George also built a lot of the houses, along with the Church and School. Also a lot of the street names are named after members of the Andrew’s family. Etherow Country Park has steadily grown over the years, and now covers an area of around 200 acres. It lies at the heart of the Etherow-Goyt Valley, this is also the start of The Goyt Way, which is a 10 mile walk to Whaley Bridge. The River Etherow flows through the park which is the source for the lakes and was originally used as a reservoir to power the water wheel; which in turn provided motorized power for the cotton mill. Later on, they used the canal to transport coal for heating and keeping the cotton dry, via a horse drawn canal barge from further downstream. One of the water wheels (Big Lily) that powered the mill would use 50 million gallons of water per day; which would come down the canal and pass through what is now the car park to drive “Big Lilly”
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular lakes for walking around Disley?
For walkers, Errwood Reservoir offers a beautiful 5-mile (8 km) circular walk with panoramic views. Its neighbor, Fernilee Reservoir, has a pleasant 3-mile (4.8 km) circular walk that can be combined with Errwood for a longer outing. Toddbrook Reservoir is also a favored location for walkers.
Are there family-friendly lakes near Disley?
Yes, Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir is an excellent choice for families, offering diverse habitats and rich wildlife to explore. Roman Lakes, Marple, with its gardens and woodland, also provides a family-friendly environment.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see at the lakes around Disley?
The lakes around Disley offer a variety of natural features. Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir, a local nature reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, boasts open water, fen, reed swamp, and woodlands, supporting a rich array of wildlife. Toddbrook Reservoir is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest, known for its diverse bird species, including herons and ducks.
Are there any historical sites associated with the lakes in the Disley area?
Yes, several lakes have historical significance. Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir originated from the 1820s Andrews Estate, which included a mine, a mill, and a mill pond. Roman Lakes, Marple, were originally millponds for the mighty Mellor Mill, dating back to the 18th century. Toddbrook Reservoir was built in 1838 to feed the Peak Forest Canal.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides walking?
Beyond walking, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Toddbrook Reservoir is popular for sailing, fishing, and canoeing. For cycling, you can explore routes like the 'Peak Forest Canal – Bugworth Canal Basin loop from Disley' which is an easy ride. You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling around Disley guide.
Are there specific viewpoints around the lakes near Disley?
Yes, Errwood Reservoir is known for its stunning panoramic views. The Descent from Pym's Chair to Errwood Reservoir also offers awesome views as you approach the reservoir.
Is there parking available at the lakes around Disley?
Yes, for Errwood Reservoir, it is easily accessible from Errwood Hall Car Park. Other popular spots like Etherow Country Park also typically have designated parking areas for visitors.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near Disley?
The lakes are generally beautiful year-round. However, for walking, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. If you plan to walk after rain, especially around Errwood Reservoir, walking shoes or boots are advised due to potentially muddy paths.
Can I combine walks around different lakes?
Yes, you can combine the 3-mile (4.8 km) circular walk around Fernilee Reservoir with the 5-mile (8 km) circular walk around Errwood Reservoir for a longer and more varied outing in the Goyt Valley.
Are there any cafes or amenities near the lakes?
Lyme Park, which features a lake, has an on-site cafe with outdoor seating next to the pond, offering refreshments. For other lakes, it's advisable to check local information for nearby pubs or cafes in the surrounding villages like Whaley Bridge or Disley.
What kind of wildlife can I spot at the lakes?
Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir is rich in wildlife, with over 200 species of plants and more than a hundred species of birds recorded. Toddbrook Reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its diverse bird species, including herons and ducks. You might also spot herons at Roman Lakes, Marple.
Are there any long-distance routes that start or pass through these lake areas?
Yes, Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir marks the starting point of the Goyt Way, a 10-mile (16.1 km) route along the Goyt Valley to Whaley Bridge.
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