Top 10 Lakes around Sileby
Best lakes around Sileby are found in the surrounding Leicestershire area, as Sileby itself is a village situated in the Soar Valley. This region offers a variety of water bodies, including reservoirs and fishing lakes, providing diverse outdoor experiences. The landscape features a mix of open water, woodlands, and parklands, making it suitable for various activities. Visitors can explore these areas for walking routes, birdwatching, and other recreational pursuits.
Best lakes around Sileby
- The most popular lakes is Bradgate Park…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Bradgate Park Deer Park
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Swithland Reservoir
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Cropston Reservoir
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Most of the land required for the reservoir, dam and waterworks belonged to the Bradgate Estate. …
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Swithland Wood
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John Merrick's Lake
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John Merricks, was a silver Olympic medallist who …
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Tips from the Community
In September 1867, 180 acres of land was purchased for a cost of £24,000. Most of the land required for the reservoir, dam and waterworks belonged to the Bradgate Estate. Lord Stamford insisted that a stone wall be built around the boundary to separate the deer park from the reservoir, instead of the proposed iron railings. This wall, 1,500 yards long was eventually built at a cost of 8s 10d per yard. Joseph Reeves, Head Gamekeeper, outside his house. Some of the Bradgate Estate land was part of the deer park, but most was farmland let out on very long leases. One farmer, Joseph Allen, lost virtually all his farm. Two members of the Matts family had theirs considerably reduced in size. The Gamekeeper’s house and land, together with a nearby bridge, were also in the area to be flooded. The house, together with its stables and outhouses, were demolished and the bricks sold. Part of the footpath between Anstey and Hallgates was submerged, as was the site of the old rabbit warren (or conery).
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This is the Great Pit in Swithland Wood, a site shaped by centuries of slate quarrying, with origins tracing back to Roman times. The quarry was first officially recorded in the 1300s, with activity continuing until the 19th century. Due to the presence of deep water and sheer vertical walls, the quarry is extremely hazardous and completely closed to public access.
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John Merrick's Lake is one of numerous lakes within the Reedbed Nature Reserve. The reserve is a great place for birdwatching, with wildlife all around you.
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Was pretty mucky and slippy on a gravel bike in June, although it's been a wet year
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Swithland Reservoir, opened in 1896 for Leicester, had a 500 million-gallon capacity but became insufficient. In the early 20th century, a pipeline from Derwent reservoirs in Derbyshire was required. As you pass Buddon Wood, quarried in the early Iron Age for millstones, take a moment to enjoy the scenery, woodland, and water birds. You might also catch sight of steam trains on the viaduct from this spot.
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Swithland Reservoir is a reservoir in the English county of Leicestershire. It is north-east of the village of Swithland from which it takes its name, north-west of Rothley and approximately 133 metres (145 yd) south-west of Mountsorrel Quarry. It is part of the 187.1-hectare (462-acre) Buddon Wood and Swithland Reservoir Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
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Swithland Wood is a small remnant of the original Charnwood Forest managed by part of the Bradgate Estate. As a small chunk of ancient woodland, Swithland consists of mature oak, birch, alder and lime with supports a rich variety of butterflies, moths and birds. This chunk of woodland is the type that would of previously covered all of the British mainland whilst groups of hunter gatherers moved through the landscape.
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John Merrick's Lake is on the "Red Route", a loop of hard surfaced paths around the northernmost lake in Watermead Country Park. The red route paths are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. They're also shared with cyclists. John Merricks, was a silver Olympic medallist who competed in sailing events on a nearby lake as a schoolboy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly lakes around Sileby?
Yes, several lakes near Sileby are great for families. Bradgate Park Deer Park is a popular attraction where you can watch for deer. Swithland Reservoir and Cropston Reservoir also offer scenic views suitable for family outings. For easy, accessible paths, John Merrick's Lake in Watermead Country Park has hard-surfaced routes suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
What lakes near Sileby offer good walking routes?
Many lakes provide excellent walking opportunities. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park offers short trails around the lake and through the woods, including the start of the National Forest Birthday Walk. John Merrick's Lake in Watermead Country Park features the 'Red Route' with hard-surfaced paths. For more extensive options, you can explore various easy hikes around Sileby that often incorporate lake views.
Where can I go birdwatching near Sileby?
Staunton Harold Reservoir is an excellent spot for birdwatching due to its abundance of birdlife. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park is also recognized for its rich diversity of birdlife, including various warblers, buzzards, kestrels, and even rarer species like marsh harriers and ospreys. John Merrick's Lake, part of the Reedbed Nature Reserve, is another great place for birdwatching.
Are there lakes near Sileby suitable for fishing?
Yes, the area is well-known for fishing lakes. Shearsby Valley Lakes boasts four fishing lakes catering to all angling needs, from casual pleasure fishing to corporate days, with opportunities to catch a variety of species. Eye Kettleby Lakes is another popular destination, particularly for carp fishing, known for its well-stocked waters and immaculate environment.
What historical features can be found near the lakes?
Swithland Reservoir, built around 1896, is divided by the Great Central Railway, offering views of passing vintage trains. Nearby, Swithland Wood contains the Great Pit, a site shaped by centuries of slate quarrying with origins tracing back to Roman times. Cropston Reservoir's history dates back to 1867 when land was purchased for its construction, with a notable stone wall built around its boundary.
Are there cycling routes around the lakes near Sileby?
Yes, you can find various cycling routes that pass by or around the lakes. For example, the 'Red Route' around John Merrick's Lake is shared with cyclists. You can also explore a range of cycling routes around Sileby, such as the 'Bridge Over the River Soar – Watermead Country Park loop', which offers scenic rides near the water.
What should I know about visiting Bradgate Park Deer Park?
Bradgate Park Deer Park is a very popular attraction. It's recommended to arrive early to enjoy it at its best, as it can get very busy with pedestrians later in the day. Watch out for the deer, which are a prominent feature of the park. Cyclists should stick to tarmac paths, as cycling off-route can incur heavy fines, and may be asked to dismount on very busy days.
Are there mountain biking trails near the lakes?
Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities in the vicinity. You can find MTB trails around Sileby that include areas near the reservoirs. Routes like the 'Swithland Reservoir – The Labyrinth loop' offer moderate challenges, while others like 'Swithland Reservoir – Swithland Wood loop' provide easier options.
Are there facilities like cafes or toilets near the lakes?
Yes, some locations offer facilities. Staunton Harold Reservoir has a National Trust Cafe with toilet access nearby. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park provides a free car park, toilets, and information boards. For Cropston Reservoir, toilets are available at the Bradgate Park car park.
What is unique about Swithland Reservoir?
Swithland Reservoir, built around 1896, is approximately a mile long and half a mile wide. A unique feature is the Great Central Railway, which divides the reservoir, offering great views of passing vintage trains. While there's no direct access to the reservoir margins, both sections can be viewed from roads at the north and south ends. It's also a good spot to enjoy the scenery, woodland, and water birds.
Can I find accommodation near the lakes around Sileby?
While Sileby itself is a village, the surrounding Leicestershire area offers various accommodation options. Eye Kettleby Lakes, for instance, is described as an 'amazing place' with a 'lovely campsite,' providing a convenient option for those looking to stay close to fishing amenities and natural beauty.
Most popular attractions around Sileby
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