Best lakes around Boltons offers a variety of natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The region is characterized by its reservoirs, which provide scenic walking routes and areas for outdoor activities. These locations serve as natural settings for walking, cycling, and wildlife observation. Visitors can explore diverse environments ranging from tranquil waters to surrounding hills.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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Over Water is a secluded lake in the northern part of the Lake District National Park. It lies at an altitude of 188 meters and was artificially enlarged by a dam in 1904 to serve as a drinking water reservoir for Wigton—a function it fulfilled until October 2022. The surrounding area offers beautiful views of the water and the surrounding hills such as Binsey, Great Cockup, and Longlands Fell.
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Lovely walk down through the woods after Sale Fell. Clearly marked paths and it pops you out just above The Pheasant Inn which was a welcome stop for a pint (Great food as well, went back there that evening...booking advised!)
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Over Water is a beautiful, remote tarn nestled beneath the fells of Binsey, Great Cockup and Longlands.
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One of the many stunning lakes in the Lake District, Bassenthwaite stretches for 4 miles (6.4 km) amongst the hills. There are no major settlements on the lake, instead you will find The Lakes Distillery serving spirits, a few pubs, and Bassenthwaite Sailing Club. The lake is also home to the vendace, a rare and endangered fish which is only found in Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite.
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This peaceful woodland affords fantastic views over Bassenthwaite Lake. Wythop Woods is home to lots of wildlife too, including roe deer, badgers and rabbits, as well as rare birds such as pine martin and osprey.
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In British OS maps these paths are not included along the shore, probably because of private grounds. Nevertheless, much used and beautiful. On the street there are also parking lots in various places from which you can go down to the shore. It seems to me that the landowner tolerates this use.
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The Bolton area offers several popular reservoirs. Bassenthwaite Lake is a well-known natural lake, while reservoirs like Lower Rivington, Turton and Entwistle, and Jumbles Country Park are highly favored for their scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. Lower Rivington is particularly popular for its network of paths connecting to attractions like Liverpool Castle and Go Ape.
Yes, many lakes and reservoirs in the Bolton area offer family-friendly walking routes. Turton and Entwistle Reservoir has a 4km picturesque route that is generally flat and suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Jumbles Country Park also features a relatively easy and flat circular walk around its reservoir, with some short climbs, making it suitable for families. Wayoh Reservoir offers a mostly flat, three-mile circular route ideal for families.
You can expect to see diverse natural features, including tranquil waters, surrounding woodlands, and hills. Wythop Woods near Bassenthwaite Lake offers fantastic views and is home to wildlife like roe deer and rare birds. Reservoirs like Wayoh and Turton and Entwistle are known for their beautiful views across the water and stretches of woodland. Doffcocker Lodge, Bolton's first nature reserve, is also rich in wildlife.
Yes, several routes are suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. The trail around Turton and Entwistle Reservoir is generally flat and accommodating. Jumbles Country Park also offers a circular walk around the reservoir that is relatively easy and flat, with some short climbs. Moses Gate Country Park features a 2.5-mile circular route with mostly smooth paths, making it suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
The lakes and reservoirs around Bolton provide excellent opportunities for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, and picnicking. The area is also great for wildlife observation. For more structured activities, you can explore easy hikes, mountain hikes, and cycling routes. For example, there are easy hikes and mountain hikes available, as well as cycling routes.
Many locations offer stunning views. View of Bassenthwaite Lake from Wythop Woods provides fantastic vistas over the lake. Over Water offers beautiful views of the water and surrounding hills like Binsey and Great Cockup. Wayoh Reservoir is known for its beautiful views across the water and the impressive Entwistle Viaduct, a popular spot for photographers.
Yes, you can find options for refreshments. Jumbles Country Park has a café along its circular route. Near Wayoh Reservoir, pubs like the Strawberry Duck and the Black Bull Inn are perfect for a break during a walk. The area around Lower Rivington Reservoir also features the Great House Barn and Rivington Hall Barn, which offer amenities.
The lakes and reservoirs are enjoyable year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and summer are ideal for walking, cycling, and picnics, with lush greenery and longer daylight hours. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter offers crisp, quiet walks, though some paths might be muddy or icy. Always check local conditions before your visit.
The lakes and surrounding woodlands are home to various wildlife. Wythop Woods is known for roe deer, badgers, rabbits, and rare birds like pine marten and osprey. Doffcocker Lodge, a nature reserve, is particularly rich in diverse wildlife. Moses Gate Country Park also boasts a wide variety of ponds and wildlife.
Many trails around the lakes and reservoirs in the Bolton area are dog-friendly. Doffcocker Lodge, for instance, is a highly popular destination, especially for dog walkers. It's generally advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife, and to clean up after them.
The circular route around Wayoh Reservoir is approximately three miles long and mostly flat. It typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete at a leisurely pace, making it a pleasant walk for most visitors.
Bassenthwaite Lake is unique as it is one of the few true natural lakes in the Lake District, stretching for 6.4 km amongst the hills. It is also home to the vendace, a rare and endangered fish found only in Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite.


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