Best lakes around Wildon Grange are primarily natural lakes and picturesque ponds, offering diverse outdoor experiences. The region features tranquil bodies of water surrounded by woodland and dramatic cliffs, providing scenic landscapes. These areas are known for their natural beauty and opportunities for walking and exploring. The natural features around Wildon Grange include ancient woodlands and varied terrain.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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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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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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Cleveland Way runs the length of the southern side of this chain of lakes, but there is a short bridleway to the north of the westernmost edge of the lakes, which takes you up a climb to Dick Wood, just east of Old Byland. Lots of waterfowl and ducks.
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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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Among the most appreciated lakes by the komoot community are Gormire Lake, known for its tranquil beauty and lush woodland, and Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve, which offers a peaceful woodland setting with dramatic cliffs. Visitors also enjoy Lower Fish Pond for its picturesque scenery and well-managed paths.
Yes, Gormire Lake is extremely popular for wild swimming. The water is known for being very clean, with no currents, and surprisingly warm, making it a glorious addition to a day out hiking in the nature reserve.
The lakes around Wildon Grange are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. For instance, Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve features ancient woodland with birch, oak, and holly, thriving lichens, mosses, and ferns, and dramatic cliffs. Gormire Lake itself is surrounded by lush woodland and is fed by an underground spring.
Yes, Lower Fish Pond is a great option for families. It's a picturesque lake with well-managed tracks and paths, making it easy to explore. You might even spot swans on the water. Another lovely spot is Higher Fish Pond, Yearsley Woods, which offers a pleasant walk.
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy options like the 'Kilburn White Horse – View from Sutton Bank loop'. For cyclists, there are routes such as 'Hawnby Stores & Tea Room – The Vale of York loop'. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails like the 'Paradise Trail (red)' at Sutton Bank. You can find more details on these activities in the easy hikes, cycling, and MTB trails guides for Wildon Grange.
While Wildon Grange itself doesn't have prominent natural fishing lakes, the surrounding region offers excellent angling opportunities. Notable fisheries include Aldin Grange Lakes, which features five well-stocked bodies of water for both trout fly fishing and coarse fishing, and Wholsea Grange Fishery, known for its quality angling experience and healthy fish. Woodhouse Grange Fisheries also hosts competitive match fishing events.
While specific accessibility details for all natural lakes are limited, some commercial fisheries in the wider area, such as Aldin Grange Lakes, are noted for having easy, well-maintained access suitable for disabled and elderly anglers, including facilities like ample parking and toilets.
Visitors frequently praise the tranquil and majestic atmosphere of lakes like Gormire Lake, highlighting its stunning natural beauty and serene environment. The well-managed paths and picturesque scenery, especially the 'Impressionistic' blue waters on sunny days at Lower Fish Pond, are also highly appreciated.
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the public footpath down to Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve from the Cleveland Way can be quite steep and narrow in places. However, it offers rewarding views and leads to a peaceful nature reserve with dramatic cliffs. The area is also known for viewpoints offering breathtaking scenery.
Many natural outdoor areas around Wildon Grange, including trails and lake surroundings, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially in nature reserves or areas with wildlife, and to check for any specific local signage regarding dog access or leash requirements.
The lakes offer beauty throughout the year. Spring and summer provide lush greenery and warmer temperatures, ideal for walking and wild swimming at Gormire Lake. Autumn brings vibrant foliage to the woodlands surrounding the lakes, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, though some paths might be more challenging.
While not entirely 'hidden,' Higher Fish Pond, Yearsley Woods, offers a lovely, quieter experience. It's worth noting that while maps might show two ponds here, only this one remains, with the other having been drained into marshland.


Still not found your perfect lake around Wildon Grange? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.