Best lakes around Harton feature a landscape characterized by woodlands, hills, and diverse natural water bodies. The area offers a mix of larger lakes and smaller ponds, often surrounded by forests and arboretums. Visitors can explore landscaped grounds, natural woodlands, and open areas with picturesque views. This region provides opportunities for enjoying serene natural settings and various outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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This beautiful arboretum is run jointly by Castle Howard Estates and Royal Botanic Gardens (Kew). Started in 1959, it has over 6,000 trees on 128 acres of ground. These are fantastically beautiful, landscaped grounds for any walker, including families and those with pets. There is a café at the entrance to the Arboretum. There is an entry fee. Please check at the website before going. https://www.yorkshirearboretum.org
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A lovely segment here down (or up from) Ganthorpe, with some picturesque ponds just outside Ganthorpe. There are pleasant views of Owlers Wood (east) and Cum Hag Wood (north-east) on this walk. A perfect stroll on your next weekend.
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A lovely little triangle-shaped pond on the western end of The Yorkshire Arboretum. Surrounded by beautiful trees that take gorgeous colours, particularly in the autumn. A peaceful place.
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This is a really gorgeous place. Right on the bank of the Great Lake, there are stunning views across the water from here, as well as picnic tables and an adventure playground for children. Peace, quiet and essentially nirvana!
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This is a lovely fishing lake right next to Birkdale Farm. It certainly offers a sense of peace and solitude here, in the lovely setting of the surrounding woodlands and hills. There is a boating hut on the bank, plenty of easy spaces for a picnic and space for parking nearby. If you would like to fish, one can hire fishing rods from the farm.
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Parkland of over 6,000 trees, wildflower meadows & lakes, with a playground & bug hunting for kids.
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Visitors frequently enjoy Birkdale Farm, which features a peaceful fishing lake set amidst woodlands and hills. Another favorite is the area around Boathouse Café, offering stunning views across a great lake. Sata Pond is also appreciated for its tranquil, tree-lined environment.
Yes, several spots are great for families. Boathouse Café has an adventure playground for children and picnic tables. The Yorkshire Arboretum, while having an entry fee, offers beautifully landscaped grounds, wildflower meadows, lakes, a playground, and bug hunting for kids. Birkdale Farm also provides easy spaces for a picnic.
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the Harton area offers various outdoor activities. You can find excellent hiking trails, such as the moderate 'Kirkham Priory Ruins – Kirkham Priory loop from Howsham', or more challenging routes like 'Howsham Wood and Kirkham Priory loop'. There are also mountain biking and running trails available. For more details on routes, visit the Hiking around Harton, MTB Trails around Harton, and Running Trails around Harton guides.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Birkdale Farm features a lovely fishing lake where you can even hire fishing rods directly from the farm. The region is generally known for its fishing lakes, offering a sense of peace and solitude.
The area is rich in natural beauty. You can find picturesque ponds, such as those along the Moor Hill to Ganthorpe Bridleway and Ponds, offering views of nearby woodlands. Sata Pond is surrounded by trees that display gorgeous colors, especially in autumn. The Yorkshire Arboretum boasts over 6,000 trees, wildflower meadows, and lakes within its landscaped grounds.
Yes, you can find amenities. The Boathouse Café is located right on the bank of a great lake, offering stunning views. Additionally, The Yorkshire Arboretum has a café at its entrance, providing refreshments for visitors.
The lakes around Harton offer beauty throughout the year. Autumn is particularly recommended for places like Sata Pond, where the surrounding trees display gorgeous colors. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and picnics, while the serene natural settings can be appreciated in any season.
Visitors particularly appreciate the sense of peace and solitude found at places like Birkdale Farm. The stunning views across the water from spots like the Boathouse Café are also highly rated. The diverse natural settings, from woodlands to landscaped grounds, provide varied and enjoyable experiences for all.
Yes, many routes in the area feature the lakes and ponds. For example, the Moor Hill to Ganthorpe Bridleway and Ponds offers a lovely segment with picturesque ponds. You can find various hiking, mountain biking, and running routes that pass by or near the lakes, providing excellent opportunities for exploration. Check the Hiking around Harton guide for detailed trail information.
Yes, there are options for easy walks. The landscaped grounds of The Yorkshire Arboretum are suitable for walkers of all abilities, including families. Many of the paths around the smaller ponds and fishing lakes, like at Birkdale Farm, also offer gentle strolls.
While specific species for all lakes in Harton are not detailed, fishing lakes in similar regions are often home to species such as Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie, Bluegill, and Yellow Perch. Birkdale Farm is a known fishing lake in the area.
Most natural lake areas are freely accessible. However, some specific attractions, like The Yorkshire Arboretum, do have an entry fee. It's always advisable to check their official website for current pricing before your visit.


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