Top 5 Lakes around Well
Best lakes around Well include a variety of water features, from historic fountain ponds nestled in forests to large reservoirs and cultivated garden lakes. This region offers diverse landscapes, featuring both natural and man-made water bodies that contribute to its scenic appeal. Visitors can explore areas with significant historical infrastructure, such as early 20th-century dams, alongside tranquil village ponds. The area around Well provides opportunities to experience different types of lakeside environments.
Best lakes around Well
- The most popular lakes…
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Hackfall Fountain Pond
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Roundhill Reservoir Dam
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park
Highlight • Natural
The gardens are stunning with atypical, some certainly …
Tip by
Grewelthorpe Village Pond
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
View of Leighton Reservoir
Highlight • Viewpoint
It provides water for the surrounding area …
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Grewelthorpe is around 3 miles South of Masham and 6 miles North of Ripon. It hosts an ancient 12th-century church and the nearby Hackfall Woods
0
0
Please note that the Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park is temporarily closed at present, but will reopen on the 18th April 2024. The gardens are stunning with atypical, some certainly "Himalayan" sculptures and art, massive amount of fabulous flowers, a couple of lakes, beautiful paths and, yes, you guessed it, a tearoom! Obviously, none of stuff like this is for free, so check the Garden's website for entry fees and more information: https://www.himalayangarden.com/
0
1
There is a valve tower here on the dam on the Roundhill Reservoir (the larger Leighton Reservoir to the north-east). The dam was built by the town of Harrogate between 1903 and 1911. The water was pumped from here to Harlow Hill in Harrogate.
0
0
The fountain pond in Hackfall Forest is well worth finding. The fountain works from a hand pump that you must pressurize yourself. There is an information board and example of the old wooden pipes that used to carry water to the pond and fountain. There is also a small folly close by.
0
0
Work was started on the Leighton reservoir in 1908 but due to the war and various setbacks it wasn’t officially completed until 1941. It provides water for the surrounding area and helps maintain the levels in the river Ure. The Swinton Estate own the land around the reservoir and stock it for fishing.
0
0
The fountain pond in Hackfall Forest is well worth finding. The fountain works from a hand pump that you must pressurize yourself. There is an information board and example of the old wooden pipes that used to carry water to the pond and fountain. There is also a small folly close by.
0
0
A stunning garden, with some unusual and interesting Sculptures. One of the highlights of our holiday and highly recommended.
0
0
Lovely garden and sculpture trail hidden in a steep valley. Reasonable climb up from Ripon. But once you get there you can refresh at the cafe and have a wander through the trees, enter Himalayan huts, spot sculptures and chill by the lakes.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Well?
Around Well, you'll discover a diverse range of water features, including historic fountain ponds nestled in forests, large reservoirs, and cultivated garden lakes. This variety offers different types of lakeside environments to explore, from historical sites to landscaped parks.
Are there family-friendly lakes to visit near Well?
Yes, several lakes around Well are suitable for families. The Hackfall Fountain Pond in Hackfall Forest is a great option, as is the Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park, which features multiple lakes, paths, and a tearoom. Grewelthorpe Village Pond is also considered family-friendly, offering a tranquil village setting.
What historical sites are associated with the lakes around Well?
The region features significant historical infrastructure. For example, the Hackfall Fountain Pond has an information board detailing its historical wooden pipes and a small folly. The Roundhill Reservoir Dam, built between 1903 and 1911, is another historical highlight, featuring a valve tower constructed to supply water to Harrogate. Additionally, Leighton Reservoir, though completed later in 1941, began construction in 1908.
Are there opportunities for walking or hiking near the lakes?
Yes, the area around Well offers various routes for outdoor activities. You can find easy hikes, running trails, and mountain biking routes that pass by or offer views of the lakes. For detailed hiking options, explore the Easy hikes around Well guide.
Can I find cafes or refreshments near the lakes?
Yes, the Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park, which features several lakes, has a tearoom on its grounds where visitors can enjoy refreshments. For other lakes, village amenities in nearby settlements like Grewelthorpe may offer options.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see at these lakes?
The lakes around Well offer a mix of natural and landscaped beauty. At Hackfall Fountain Pond, you'll find it nestled within a forest. The Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park boasts diverse flora and beautifully landscaped grounds surrounding its lakes. Reservoirs like Leighton Reservoir offer expansive water views in a more open setting.
Are there mountain biking trails near the lakes around Well?
Yes, there are mountain biking trails in the vicinity of the lakes. For example, routes like the 'Leighton Reservoir loop from Masham' offer opportunities to cycle near the water. You can find more information and routes in the MTB Trails around Well guide.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes around Well?
Visitors appreciate the unique character of each lake. The Hackfall Fountain Pond is loved for its hidden location and the interactive hand-pumped fountain. The Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park is praised for its stunning gardens, sculptures, and tranquil lakes. The historical significance of structures like the Roundhill Reservoir Dam also draws interest.
Is there a quiet, less-known lake to visit near Well?
For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting Grewelthorpe Village Pond. It offers a peaceful setting within the village, providing a local charm distinct from the larger attractions.
Can I go running near the lakes in the Well area?
Absolutely. There are several running trails available that pass through scenic areas, some of which are near the lakes. For example, routes like 'River Ure – Hackfall Wood loop from Masham' offer challenging runs in the wider region. Check out the Running Trails around Well guide for more options.
What is the significance of the reservoirs around Well?
Reservoirs like Roundhill Reservoir Dam and Leighton Reservoir are significant for their historical engineering and their role in water supply. Roundhill Dam was built in the early 20th century to provide water to Harrogate, while Leighton Reservoir, completed in 1941, supplies the surrounding area and helps maintain levels in the River Ure.
Most popular attractions around Well
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Well? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
