Top 7 Lakes around Thornton-On-The-Hill
Best lakes around Thornton-On-The-Hill include several notable bodies of water in the surrounding North Yorkshire area. The region features natural lakes and ponds, often nestled within woodlands or offering scenic viewpoints. These locations provide opportunities for walking, nature observation, and enjoying tranquil waterscapes. The landscape around Thornton-On-The-Hill is characterized by rolling countryside and natural features.
Best lakes around Thornton-On-The-Hill
- The most popular lakes is Gormire Lake, an other natural feature that is a tranquil lake surrounded by lush woodland.…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Gormire Lake
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Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve
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Lower Fish Pond
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Higher Fish Pond, Yearsley Woods
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Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; …
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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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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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This is one fabulous place to be: a very picturesque and beautiful little lake, with little piers on its banks in a few places. The tracks and paths around it are well-managed (thus easy to run on). On a sunny day, the waters get amazingly blue colours and the scene is truly Impressionistic!
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This is a lovely little lake in Yearsley Woods to jog your way up to. Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; the other one has been drained since and is essentially a marshland now.
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This is one fabulous place to be: a very picturesque and beautiful little lake, with little piers on its banks in a few places. The tracks and paths around it are well-managed, not to mention the swans. On a sunny day, the waters get amazingly blue colours and the scene is truly Impressionistic!
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This is a lovely little lake in Yearsley Woods to walk to. Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; the other one has been drained since and is essentially a marshland now.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes around Thornton-On-The-Hill?
Among the most popular lakes in the area is Gormire Lake, known for its tranquil setting, lush woodland, and clean, warm water, making it popular for wild swimming. Visitors also appreciate Lower Fish Pond for its picturesque beauty and well-managed paths.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Thornton-On-The-Hill?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Lower Fish Pond is a picturesque spot with well-managed paths, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Higher Fish Pond, Yearsley Woods also offers a lovely, accessible setting for families to enjoy.
What natural features can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes around Thornton-On-The-Hill offer diverse natural beauty. At Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve, you'll find ancient woodland, dramatic cliffs, and a fresh lake. Gormire Lake itself is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to diverse plants and wildlife. Thornton Steward Reservoir is known for its quiet atmosphere and opportunities for wildlife observation, particularly water birds.
Are there any historic sites near the lakes?
Yes, Newburgh Priory Lake, located near the village of Coxwold, is part of the historic Newburgh Priory estate. The estate features a large picturesque lake, hidden water gardens, historic trees, and woodland walks. The Priory itself, with its connections to Oliver Cromwell, is open for guided tours during specific months, typically April, May, and June.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond walking and nature observation, the area offers various outdoor activities. Thornton Steward Reservoir is a hub for organized water sports, including sailing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), canoeing, kayaking, and windsurfing for members of the Thornton Steward Sailing Club, as well as fly fishing. For cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous routes available, including those for touring bicycles, gravel biking, and MTB trails.
Can I go wild swimming in any of the lakes?
Yes, Gormire Lake is particularly popular for wild swimming. It is thought to be fed by an underground spring, resulting in clean and surprisingly warm water with no currents, making it a favored spot for a refreshing dip.
Are there easy walking paths around the lakes?
Thornton Steward Reservoir features a relatively accessible one-mile walking path around its perimeter, offering pleasant countryside views. Lower Fish Pond also has well-managed tracks and paths suitable for easy strolls. While the path down to Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve can be steep and narrow in places, the ancient woodland itself is peaceful to explore.
Are there viewpoints overlooking the lakes?
Absolutely. For spectacular panoramic views, head to View of Gormire Lake from Whitestone Cliff. This spot, part of the Cleveland Way trail, offers breathtaking vistas over Gormire Lake and the surrounding landscape.
Is there parking available at the lakes?
Thornton Steward Reservoir provides a free car park and picnic area for visitors. For Newburgh Priory Lake, parking is available within the historic estate grounds.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Thornton-On-The-Hill?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and summer offer the best conditions for walking and outdoor activities, with warmer weather and lush scenery. If you're interested in the historic Newburgh Priory, guided tours are typically available in April, May, and June.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in this region?
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquil and serene atmosphere of the lakes, offering a peaceful escape into nature. The clean, warm waters of Gormire Lake for wild swimming, the picturesque beauty of Lower Fish Pond, and the stunning views from Whitestone Cliff are frequently highlighted as favorites.
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