Top 6 Lakes around Sawley
Best lakes around Sawley are found in the surrounding region, offering diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. Sawley, a village in Derbyshire, England, serves as a starting point for exploring various water bodies. These areas provide settings for walks and nature observation. The region's geography includes reservoirs and natural lakes, shaped by both natural processes and historical engineering projects.
Best lakes around Sawley
- The most popular lakes is Lower Ogden Reservoir, a lake that was built in the early…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Lower Ogden Reservoir
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Stocks Reservoir and Lost Village of Stocks-in-Bowland
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Stocks Reservoir
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Churn Clough Reservoir
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Barrowford Pond
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Tips from the Community
This beautiful reservoir is situated at the head of the Hodder valley in the Forest of Bowland. Stocks is considered one of the most important places for wildfowl in the country. There are great trails, a fly fishing club and a little café where you can sit down for a coffee.
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Amazing reservoir and amazing to see the reflection of the trees and hills in the water on a quiet day.
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The village of Barrowford is the traditional start point for the Pendle Way, a 45-mile (72 km) loop of the Pendle district. The hike begins from the Pendle Heritage Centre, a great place to learn more about the region’s rich history. The village boasts a couple of pubs, a wine bar and a restaurant, though neighbouring Nelson is a better bet for accommodation.
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Churn Clough Reservoir, constructed in the late 19th century and expanded during the 1920s, serves as a popular fishing destination. Encircling the reservoir, a well-maintained footpath offers a pleasant route for leisurely walks and exploration of the surrounding woodland.
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Lower Ogden Reservoir was built in the early 1900's to supply water to the surrounding area. The track to the north can be linked with footpaths to the south so that you can run around the reservoir from Barley. You can also extend the run and take in Upper Ogden Reservoir or use this as the start or finishing section for a brilliant loop of Pendle Hill.
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Lower Ogden Reservoir was built in the early 1900's to supply water to the surrounding area.
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The Stocks circular route on East side close to reservoir is a man made gravel path and has probably been designed for the weekend family stroll as it tends to lack items of interest. Once you get beyond this approx 1 mile section and go further from the reservoir the views and walk becomes more interesting
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes and water bodies are found near Sawley?
The area around Sawley features a mix of man-made reservoirs and natural lakes. You'll find historical reservoirs like Lower Ogden Reservoir, built in the early 1900s, alongside nature reserves created from former gravel pits, such as Attenborough Nature Reserve, known for its wetlands and birdwatching.
Are there good places for birdwatching near Sawley?
Yes, Attenborough Nature Reserve, located where the River Erewash meets the River Trent, is renowned for its exceptional birdwatching opportunities. Its diverse habitats attract a wide variety of species, making it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts.
What outdoor activities can I do around the lakes near Sawley?
You can enjoy various outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and road cycling. For hiking, explore routes like the 'Chatburn to Downham loop' or 'The Ribble Valley Jubilee Trail' which are part of the Easy hikes around Sawley guide. Mountain biking trails are available in guides like MTB Trails around Sawley, and road cycling routes can be found in Road Cycling Routes around Sawley.
Are there family-friendly lakes or walks suitable for families?
Many areas are family-friendly. Lower Ogden Reservoir and Ogden Reservoirs offer trails that are often explored by families. Attenborough Nature Reserve also features well-maintained footpaths and a visitor centre, making it great for families looking to connect with wildlife.
Are there any historical sites or features near the lakes?
Yes, Stocks Reservoir and Lost Village of Stocks-in-Bowland offers a glimpse into history, as the reservoir was created by flooding a former village. Additionally, Melbourne Pool in Melbourne is a historic body of water within a charming market town, offering pleasant walks.
What is unique about the Ogden Reservoirs?
The Ogden Reservoirs are a complex of man-made water bodies fed by water running off Pendle Hill. They are known for their delightful trails, often explored by those heading up Pendle Hill. Upper Ogden Reservoir specifically offers scenic routes around the back of Pendle Hill, including sections with steps.
Where can I find a peaceful spot for a leisurely walk near Sawley?
Melbourne Pool in Melbourne offers a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll, often combined with visits to local cafes and shops. St Chad's Water Nature Reserve also provides a quiet circular walking path around the lake, surrounded by woodland and a wildflower meadow, ideal for informal countryside recreation.
Are there any lakes with recreational facilities or urban park settings?
Highfields Lake, located within the University of Nottingham's Highfields Park, offers a gentle walking circuit and a boating lake where visitors can hire boats. The park is a Grade II listed landscape with various attractions, providing a peaceful escape with recreational activities close to Nottingham city centre.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Sawley?
Visitors appreciate the calm waters of places like Lower Ogden Reservoir, where the reflection of trees and hills can be stunning on a quiet day. The trails around the Ogden Reservoirs are also a delight, and the scenic views, especially from Upper Ogden Reservoir, are highly praised.
Is there a cafe or amenities near any of the lakes?
Yes, Stocks Reservoir has a little cafe where you can sit down for a coffee. Attenborough Nature Reserve also features a modern visitor centre, and Melbourne Pool is conveniently located near cafes and vintage shops in Melbourne.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see around these lakes?
The landscapes vary from the serene, reflective waters of reservoirs like Lower Ogden Reservoir, often surrounded by trees and hills, to the diverse wetlands and grasslands of Attenborough Nature Reserve. St Chad's Water Nature Reserve offers woodland edges and wildflower meadows, providing a rich natural setting.
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