Top 4 Lakes around Hutton-Sessay
Best lakes around Hutton-Sessay, a village in North Yorkshire, England, provide access to varied natural landscapes. The area is characterized by tranquil natural lakes surrounded by woodland and dramatic cliffs, alongside reservoirs. These water bodies near Hutton-Sessay offer opportunities for enjoying nature, walking, and specific outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Hutton-Sessay
- The most popular lakes is View of Gormire Lake from Whitestone Cliff, a trail that offers spectacular views over Gormire Lake and the surrounding landscape. This viewpoint is…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Gormire Lake
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Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve
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View of Gormire Lake from Whitestone Cliff
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If you are exploring Garbutt Wood …
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View of Oulston Reservoir
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Tips from the Community
Gormire Lake is a natural lowland lake that lies at the foot of Whitestone Cliff, a western escarpment of the Hambleton Hills
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Meaning "filthy swamp", there are many local legends and myths surrounding this lake, such as it is bottomless (it is 6.5m deep) and was created by an earthquake that swallowed a village resulting in the lake today (it is a glacial lake).
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Well worth taking the path down from the Cleveland Way to Gormire Lake, where you can enjoy the peace of the ancient woodland that is Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve.
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The public footpath down to the nature reserve from the Cleveland Way (at the location on OS maps marked as "Great Relief Pot") is reasonably steep, but can be very narrow in places with short wooden planks driven into the ground along the downward side of the path, presumably to prevent the path from eroding and collapsing. In other places there are plenty of stones and tree roots to help stabilise your ascent/descent. As you approach Gormire Lake look out for a very curious and quite large boulder that is almost an 8-10 foot high perfect cube. The nature reserve consists of ancient woodland and is very peaceful. Easy to access the water's edge at Gormire Lake.
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You can also get a different view of the reservoir if you approach along the footpath from east of Pond Head Farm .
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The actual access to the reservoir is prohibited (a locked gate), so this is the closest and best you can get to. It's lovely place to stay at - very peaceful. Because it's inaccessible to the public, it also seems wild and serene. A great place to look at.
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Amazing views of Gormire Lake from the high paths of the Cleveland Way
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go wild swimming in any of the lakes near Hutton-Sessay?
Yes, Gormire Lake is particularly popular for wild swimming. It's known for its clean, surprisingly warm water and lack of currents, making it a great spot for a dip while exploring the surrounding nature reserve.
Are there good fishing spots around Hutton-Sessay?
Absolutely. The Oaks Lakes, located in nearby Sessay, is a well-known mature coarse fishery complex. It features ten match and pleasure fishing lakes with over 400 pegs and a wide variety of fish species, including carp, tench, bream, and roach. They also have an on-site cafe and tackle shop.
What kind of natural features and wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
Around Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve, you'll find tranquil ancient woodland, dramatic cliffs, and moorland with bilberry and heather. The reserve is home to diverse plants and wildlife, including lichens, mosses, ferns, and flowers like fleabane and common spotted orchid. It's also a Site of Special Scientific Interest, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Where can I find the best views of the lakes?
For spectacular panoramic views, head to Whitestone Cliff. High on the cliff, which is part of the classic Cleveland Way trail, you are rewarded with breathtaking vistas over Gormire Lake and the Vale of York beyond.
Are there walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, the area around Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve offers peaceful woodland trails. While some paths can be steep and narrow, they provide access to the lake's edge and allow you to explore the ancient woodland. The Cleveland Way also passes nearby, offering longer hiking opportunities.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?
Beyond walking and swimming, the wider Hutton-Sessay area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including touring bicycle, mountain biking, and gravel biking trails. Explore options like the 'Kilburn White Horse – The Vale of York loop' for cycling or 'Boltby Forest Trails' for mountain biking. For more details, check out the Cycling around Hutton-Sessay, MTB Trails around Hutton-Sessay, and Gravel biking around Hutton-Sessay guides.
Are there any unique geological features to look out for?
Near Gormire Lake, as you approach the water's edge, keep an eye out for a very curious and quite large cube-shaped boulder, approximately 8-10 feet high. It's a distinctive landmark within the nature reserve.
Are there cafes or other amenities near the lakes?
The Oaks Lakes fishing complex in Sessay features an on-site cafe and a fully stocked tackle shop, providing convenient amenities for visitors. For other lakes like Gormire, amenities are more limited, so it's advisable to bring your own refreshments.
Is there parking available near the lakes?
While specific parking details for each lake vary, areas like Sutton Bank, which provides access to Gormire Lake, typically have designated parking facilities. The Oaks Lakes also offers a caravan and camping park, which includes parking for its visitors.
When is the best time to visit the lakes near Hutton-Sessay?
The lakes are beautiful year-round. For wild swimming at Gormire Lake, warmer months are ideal. For walking and enjoying the natural scenery, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter can offer a serene, peaceful experience, though paths might be muddy.
Are there any less-known lakes worth exploring?
Yes, the Oulston Reservoir offers a wild and serene experience. While public access to the reservoir itself is prohibited, you can find peaceful viewpoints nearby. It's a great place to observe nature and enjoy tranquility away from more frequented spots.
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