Top 9 Lakes around Carlton
Lakes around Carlton offer diverse natural landscapes, often featuring reclaimed industrial sites transformed into woodlands and nature reserves. This region provides a variety of water bodies, including reservoirs and natural lakes, integrated into forest parks and wildlife habitats. These areas are characterized by their blend of established woodlands, open grasslands, and aquatic environments, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. The landscape includes former opencast coal mining sites now rewilded, alongside areas of new tree planting.
Best lakes around Carlton
- The most…
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park
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Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve
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Thornton Reservoir
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Bagworth Heath Woods
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Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Wood
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Tips from the Community
A great place for a simple circuit of the lake or to hook up to other nearby walks. Owned by the forestry commission, the car parks are no longer free . Card or payment by app only (cash not accepted).
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Following the planting of 300,000 native broadleaf trees from 2012-2015, QEDJW is now flourishing into a beautiful young woodland made up of oak, field maple, silver birch, beech and hornbeam, to name just a few. Bluebell and wood anemone light up the forest floor in the ancient woodland areas in springtime, and at the lake you’ll find vegetation including bull rush and yellow iris.
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Sence Valley Forest Park is a significant area of woodland planting which has transformed the former opencast coal mining site, in north-west Leicestershire, into a haven for wildlife and visitors. The coal mine closed in 1996 and only two years later 98,000 Corsican pine, larch and poplars trees were planted. Another 100 acres of land was bought in 2018 and this was planted with a range of coniferous and broadleaved trees, as a sustainable forest for the future.
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The main path through the nature reserve (i.e. the one marked on komoot) takes you nowhere near the ponds or bird hide. You have to take the path off to the right near the Severn Trent Water station.
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The cafe at the garden centre is perfect for a mid ride cob
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A relatively new nature reserve that is being taken back by nature. The waters meander in a natural way, the land is allowed to flood in heavy rain, and as you walk through you’ll feel like you’re leaving the rest of the world behind. Loads of birdwatching - it's a great site for Warblers, Whitethroat, Rereed and Sedge warbler. Also Grey Partridge, Little Ringed Plover, Snipe, Little Owl and Kingfisher have been spotted too. Add to this birds of prey including Osprey, Merlin, Buzzard, Kestrel and Peregrine have all been seen, along with the more locally rare marsh harrier, hen harrier and Montagu’s harrier. They've even had a red-footed falcon! Best pack your binoculars and start working through that list.
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Thornton Reservoir is a small area of water situated on the edge of the National Forest in a peaceful and picturesque location. It offers a network of trails and footpaths around the reservoir and through the neighbouring woodland areas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes around Carlton for a visit?
Visitors particularly enjoy Thornton Reservoir, known for its traffic-free trail and abundant wildlife. Other popular spots include Bagworth Heath Woods, which features woodlands, grasslands, and lakes, and Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park, a great starting point for various walks.
Are there family-friendly options among the lakes near Carlton?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park, Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve, Bagworth Heath Woods, and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Wood are all noted as family-friendly, offering easy paths and natural exploration.
Which lakes around Carlton are suitable for wheelchair users?
Thornton Reservoir is an excellent choice for wheelchair users, featuring a paved, traffic-free path around its perimeter with plenty of benches, making it accessible for a relaxing outing.
What kind of wildlife and natural features can I expect to see?
The lakes are rich in wildlife. At Thornton Reservoir, you can spot mammals, birds, butterflies, and dragonflies. Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve is a haven for birdwatching, with various warblers, grey partridge, little owl, kingfisher, and even birds of prey like osprey and marsh harrier. Bagworth Heath Woods is known for its wildfowl and aquatic plants, while Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Wood showcases bluebells and wood anemones in spring, alongside bull rush and yellow iris at the lake.
Are there hiking or walking trails near the lakes?
Yes, the area offers numerous walking opportunities. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park is a popular starting point for walks, including short circuits through the woods. For more options, you can explore various easy hikes around Carlton, including routes like the Bow Pool loop or the Market Bosworth Town Centre loop. Find more details on the Easy hikes around Carlton guide.
What other outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond walking, you can enjoy running and mountain biking. There are several running trails around Carlton, such as the Shenton Village – Sutton Wharf Café loop. For mountain biking, explore routes like the Snipston Country Park and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Wood loop. Check out the Running Trails around Carlton guide and the MTB Trails around Carlton guide for more routes.
Is there parking available at the lake locations?
Yes, parking is generally available. For example, Sence Valley Forest Park has a car park, though it now requires card or app payment (cash not accepted). It's always advisable to check specific location details for current parking information and fees.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Carlton?
The lakes offer beauty year-round. Spring is ideal for seeing bluebells and wood anemones at places like Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Wood. The traffic-free paths, like the one at Thornton Reservoir, make for lovely walks in any season, including winter.
Are the lakes dog-friendly?
While specific dog-friendly policies vary by location, many natural reserves and parks in the area, including those with lakes, generally welcome dogs on leads. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding pets to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone.
Can I find cafes or accommodation near the lakes?
The region around Carlton offers various amenities. While specific cafes directly at every lake might be limited, the broader area provides options for refreshments and accommodation. For instance, the National Forest area, where many of these lakes are situated, has facilities and nearby towns with services.
What makes the lakes around Carlton unique?
The lakes around Carlton are unique for their blend of natural beauty and reclaimed industrial heritage. Many, like Bagworth Heath Woods and Sence Valley Forest Park, are former colliery sites transformed into thriving woodlands, grasslands, and aquatic habitats, offering a fascinating glimpse into ecological restoration.
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