Best lakes around Ingleby offer diverse natural and man-made water features, providing opportunities for recreation and wildlife observation. The area features a mix of reservoirs, historical pools, and parkland with significant water bodies. These locations often include amenities for visitors, such as walking trails, cafes, and parking. The landscape around Ingleby combines natural beauty with historical interest, making it suitable for various outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 20, 2026
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hicks Lodge trail blue route biking walks around the woods and lake
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The Cross Britain Way is a long-distance route that goes 279 miles (450 km) from Barmouth on the West Wales coast to Boston on the East coast of England. The route was initiated to span the UK to highlight the lesser-known areas of our picturesque hidden countryside. Here you are at Staunton Harold Reservoir, which is a fair size at 210 acres (85 hectares). Here on the north-west shore, you have fine views out over the water and the surrounding woodland. There is an abundance of birdlife to look at here too. Not far away is the National Trust Cafe for Staunton Harold with access to toilets.
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Great walks and biking awesome views parking cafe
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Great place for an hour or so out in the woods, the trail is a good workout and you can often spot animals in the evening. Deer occasionally, foxes and always crows. Try the green trail as well as it's quite twisty and turns and exciting, with lots of little up and downhills. There are some nice, welcome, benches and picnic tables 3/4 of the way round.
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St Chad’s water was created in the 1970’s during the excavation of the underlying gravel deposits by Haveringham Gravels. As quarrying proceeded, water flooded the lake through the subterranean water table and once the site was abandoned, the lake and its environs were sold to Draycott and Church Wilne Parish Council for £1.00. St Chads Water and its surrounding environments are an important local resource for informal countryside recreation such as fishing, walking and bird watching. The site is approx. 23 acres and consists of the Lake with a circular walking path around it, woodland edges, a wildflower meadow area and in 2023 we have opened up a new area for use as an outdoor classroom.
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Although its extent in the medieval period is not known, Melbourne Pool was certainly large by the early 17th century, as shown on a map of that time. Tradition says that stone for Melbourne Castle was quarried here before the area was flooded. A map of 1787 shows the Pool extending further to the west than it does now. It provided water to Melbourne Mill. The level of the water was raised by two feet at the beginning of the 18th century, in order to work the fountains in the Hall gardens, although this flooded part of the vicarage garden. By the early 19th century the pool was silted up completely at the west end. In the 1840s it was partly filled and the rest was cleaned out, making two ornamental islands and landscaping the surrounding area. In its current form it covers some 20 acres. It is not known when it was first created, but references to a mill pool are found in the early 14th century.
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Among the most popular lakes, visitors frequently enjoy Deer Park at Calke Abbey, known for its walking and wildlife opportunities. Staunton Harold Reservoir is also highly regarded for its beautiful views, cycling paths, and facilities like a cafe and playground. Another favorite is Melbourne Pool, appreciated for its peaceful atmosphere and historical significance.
Yes, several lakes around Ingleby are great for families. Deer Park at Calke Abbey offers wildlife viewing and walking trails suitable for all ages. Staunton Harold Reservoir features cycle ways, a playground, and a cafe, making it ideal for a family day out. Melbourne Pool is a peaceful spot with bird species that children might enjoy, and Staunton Harold Reservoir and Visitor Centre also provides family-friendly facilities and activities.
The lakes around Ingleby offer diverse natural features. At Deer Park at Calke Abbey, you can observe deer and other wildlife within a natural parkland setting. Staunton Harold Reservoir provides expansive water views and surrounding forests. Melbourne Pool is known for its variety of bird species, while St Chad's Water Nature Reserve features a lake with a circular walking path, woodland edges, and a wildflower meadow.
Yes, the area combines natural beauty with historical interest. Melbourne Pool has a rich history dating back to at least the early 14th century, with traditions of stone quarrying for Melbourne Castle. Near Staunton Harold Reservoir and Visitor Centre, you can find the Tower Windmill, which was part of the Melbourne estate. Additionally, Deer Park at Calke Abbey is situated within the historic grounds of Calke Abbey.
You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities near the lakes around Ingleby. For hiking, there are routes like 'Heath Wood – River Trent at Ingleby loop' and 'Robin Wood – Knowlehill Pond loop'. Cyclists can explore routes such as 'Donington Park Race Track – Cloud Trail loop' or 'Cloud Trail – Garendon Way loop'. Many of these routes are accessible from the lakes and offer scenic views. Find more details on these activities at the Hiking around Ingleby, Road Cycling Routes around Ingleby, and Cycling around Ingleby guide pages.
Absolutely. There are several hiking trails that allow you to explore the natural beauty around the lakes. For example, you can find easy to moderate trails like 'Heath Wood – River Trent at Ingleby loop' or 'Robin Wood – Knowlehill Pond loop'. These trails often pass by or offer views of the water bodies. For a comprehensive list of hiking options, visit the Hiking around Ingleby guide.
Facilities vary by location. Staunton Harold Reservoir and Staunton Harold Reservoir and Visitor Centre offer parking, cafes, and playgrounds. Deer Park at Calke Abbey has a cafe. Melbourne Pool is conveniently located near local shops and cafes. Many locations also provide walking trails and viewpoints.
Yes, bird watching is a popular activity at several lakes. Melbourne Pool is known for its variety of bird species. Staunton Harold Reservoir and Visitor Centre also offers opportunities for bird watching, and St Chad's Water Nature Reserve is an important local resource for this activity.
Yes, Deer Park at Calke Abbey is listed as dog-friendly, making it a great option for walks with your canine companion. Always remember to keep dogs under control and check for any specific local regulations or lead requirements at other locations.
The Ingleby Road Fishery, located near Ingleby (specifically Ingleby Road in Great Broughton), is a well-stocked 1.5-acre mixed-species coarse fishing lake. It's a spring-fed former clay pit, offering a picturesque setting for anglers with fish like carp, roach, bream, tench, and perch. While it was previously closed to the public, information suggests it offers superb coarse fishing in a beautiful environment. It's advisable to check current opening status and permit requirements directly with the fishery before planning a visit.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Staunton Harold Reservoir features dedicated cycle ways with beautiful views. You can find various cycling routes, including road cycling and touring bicycle options, that pass by or are near the lakes. Explore more routes on the Road Cycling Routes around Ingleby and Cycling around Ingleby guide pages.
St Chad's Water Nature Reserve was created in the 1970s from a gravel excavation site. It features a lake with a circular walking path, woodland edges, and a wildflower meadow. It's an important local resource for informal countryside recreation, including fishing, walking, and bird watching, and even has an area designated as an outdoor classroom.


Still not found your perfect lake around Ingleby? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.