Top 20 Lakes around Dacre
Best lakes around Dacre are found in a region characterized by its diverse aquatic landscapes, primarily featuring reservoirs. This area offers a blend of natural beauty and historical interest, with several man-made lakes providing opportunities for outdoor activities. The landscape is characterized by well-maintained paths and scenic views, making it suitable for various outdoor pursuits. Many of these lakes are part of the Washburn Valley, known for its historical significance in water supply.
Best lakes around Dacre
- The most popular…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Fewston Reservoir Circular Path
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Thruscross Reservoir
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Lindley Wood Reservoir
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Glasshouses Dam
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Ruins of West End Village at Thruscross Reservoir
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Glasshouses Mill, which the dam served, was initially a corn mill but later transitioned to flax processing in the early 1800s. The dam was built in 1850 by brothers John and George Metcalfe, who expanded the mill and its operations. The mill was a prosperous business, employing around 250 people and known for its responsible employment practices. By the late 19th century, the decline of linen led local mills to produce jute and hemp, but Glasshouses Mill continued flax spinning until the death of George Metcalfe Jr. in 1898. Following his death, the mill struggled, eventually declaring bankruptcy in 1907. The dam is now a recreational area, offering opportunities for fishing, skating in winter, and water sports in summer, although it was literally bone dry when I passed in May 2025 (see photos).
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Undoubtedly the most scenic of the Washburn reservoirs with the moorland backdrop to the north. The circular route around the reservoir from the car park is about 5 miles, the track on the southwestern side runs along the edge of plantations and offers some shade from the sun and shelter from the elements. The track on the northeastern side is more exposed, and if you do the whole circuit you will cross over Far Comb Hill and the plantation along the edge of the reservoir at Whit Moor - a great route.
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Good quality paths all the way around Thruscross, Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs, with parking at Swinsty Moor Plantation, Fewston village, Blubberhouses, and Thruscross Reservoir dam. If you do all 3 reservoirs then that clocks in at a 15-mile route, but is well worth it. The paths around the southern reservoirs are generally wide and flat. There are benches at periodic intervals on the eastern side of Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs, where you can take a break and admire the views.
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The walk from the large car park at Thruscross Reservoir dam up the west side of the reservoir to Cloggers Lane is magical and gives far better views than the tracks along Scot Lane on the eastern side. The track meanders along the edge of coniferous plantations, giving dappled shade on a sunny day and unobstructed views across the reservoir.
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Lindley Wood is a compensation reservoir, which means it is not linked to the supply of water to homes but is there to take excess water from Fewston and Swinsty reservoirs, which are nearby. This is why there is not much water in there.
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Here in the Washburn Valley are two reservoirs right next to each other, Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs. You can walk around both of them or just do a solo jaunt around one. The walk around Fewston reservoir is less obstructed than Swinsty and is the better of the two walks. The Fewston Path goes for 3.7 miles (6 km) around the reservoir on well-maintained paths that, on a sunny day, will give you super nice views along with a good dose of peace and tranquillity.
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It is very odd to think that an entire village once existed here, but that's what you're looking at here. The entire village of West End. Cloggers Lane dropped here towards Patrick's Mill, the Butcher's Arm and a church, all of which vanished under the Thruscross Reservoir in the mid 1960s. A curious, eerie sight.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes to visit around Dacre?
The most popular lakes in the Dacre area, particularly within the Washburn Valley, include Fewston Reservoir Circular Path, known for its well-maintained 6 km path and tranquil views. Another favorite is Thruscross Reservoir, appreciated for its remote beauty and the intriguing remains of a submerged village visible when water levels are low.
Are there family-friendly walks around the lakes near Dacre?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly walking experiences. The Fewston Reservoir Circular Path is ideal, featuring well-maintained paths suitable for all ages. Lindley Wood Reservoir also provides aesthetic walks along its green wooded banks, and Glasshouses Dam is a recreational area suitable for families.
What historical features can be found at the lakes near Dacre?
The lakes in the Washburn Valley are rich in history. Thruscross Reservoir is particularly notable for the submerged village of West End, whose remains, including a flax mill, can be seen when water levels are low. The Ruins of West End Village at Thruscross Reservoir offer an eerie glimpse into the past. Lindley Wood Reservoir is also one of the oldest in the valley, built between 1869 and 1876.
Are the lake trails around Dacre suitable for dogs?
Yes, many of the lake trails are dog-friendly. Both Fewston Reservoir Circular Path and Thruscross Reservoir are popular choices for walks with dogs, offering scenic routes for you and your canine companion.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Dacre?
Beyond walking, the area around Dacre's lakes offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, including easy loops like 'Low Hall Wood loop from Dacre' or more challenging options like 'Yorke's Folly – Pateley Bridge — Market Town loop from Dacre'. For running enthusiasts, there are trails such as the 'Castlestead loop from Dacre'. Mountain biking is also popular, with routes like the 'Brimham Rocks Loop'. You can explore these and more on the hiking guide, running guide, and MTB guide for Dacre.
How long are the typical walks around the lakes?
Walks around the lakes vary in length. The Fewston Reservoir Circular Path is approximately 3.7 miles (6 km). Thruscross Reservoir offers a circular route of about 5 miles. If you're looking for a longer challenge, combining Fewston, Swinsty, and Thruscross reservoirs can create a 15-mile route.
What makes Lindley Wood Reservoir unique?
Lindley Wood Reservoir is one of the oldest reservoirs in the Washburn Valley, constructed between 1869 and 1876. It's known for its aesthetic walks along green wooded banks and open countryside, offering a soul-beautifying experience. It also functions as a compensation reservoir, taking excess water from nearby Fewston and Swinsty reservoirs.
Can I see any interesting natural features or viewpoints at these lakes?
Yes, the lakes offer several scenic viewpoints. Fewston Reservoir Circular Path provides super nice views on clear days. From Reservoir Road near Thruscross Reservoir, you can enjoy stunning views, especially at sunset, with the moorland backdrop to the north. Lindley Wood Reservoir also offers beautiful vistas of its wooded surroundings.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Dacre?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Sunny days are ideal for enjoying the tranquil views and well-maintained paths, particularly at Fewston Reservoir. In autumn, the wooded areas around Lindley Wood Reservoir are especially beautiful. For a more atmospheric visit, Thruscross Reservoir can be particularly evocative when mist hangs low, giving it a ghostly charm.
Are there any facilities or amenities near the lake walks?
While specific amenities vary by location, the area around the Washburn Valley reservoirs generally offers parking facilities at various points, such as Swinsty Moor Plantation, Fewston village, Blubberhouses, and Thruscross Reservoir dam. Benches are also available at periodic intervals on the eastern side of Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs for resting and enjoying the views.
What is the difficulty level of the walks around Dacre's lakes?
The difficulty of walks around Dacre's lakes varies. The paths around Fewston Reservoir are generally wide and flat, making them easy and accessible. Thruscross Reservoir and Lindley Wood Reservoir offer intermediate-level circular routes, with some sections along plantations providing shade and others more exposed.
What do visitors appreciate most about the lakes in Dacre?
Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquility and scenic beauty of the lakes. The well-maintained paths and peaceful atmosphere of Fewston Reservoir are often highlighted. The remote and serene nature of Thruscross Reservoir, along with its unique historical elements, also receives high praise. The overall experience of being surrounded by nature and enjoying aesthetic walks is a common theme among visitors.
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