Top 16 Lakes around Norton Canes
Best lakes around Norton Canes are primarily found within the Cannock Chase District in Staffordshire, England. This region is characterized by its man-made reservoirs, which historically supported industrial growth and now serve as significant recreational hubs. Norton Canes is closely associated with Chasewater, a large reservoir offering diverse outdoor activities, alongside smaller bodies of water like Leacroft Pool known for angling. The natural landscape includes woodlands, meadows, and wetlands, providing varied environments for exploration.
Best lakes around Norton Canes
- The most popular lakes is Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase, a mtb_park that features challenging and fun trails with various obstacles. It offers opportunities to fine-tune mountain bike skills on both uphill and downhill courses.
- Another must-see spot is Little Bracebridge Pond, Sutton Park, a viewpoint with numerous trails to follow and opportunities to spot wildlife. Visitors can expect a natural space with a visitor centre and a donkey sanctuary nearby.
- Visitors also love Fairoak Pools, a lake that provides a beautiful spot to watch the sunshine on the water. It is a peaceful location to sit and rest, popular with cyclists and walkers.
- Norton Canes is known for its diverse range of lakes, including large reservoirs for water sports and smaller pools for angling. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from those with extensive recreational facilities to quiet natural spots.
- The lakes around Norton Canes are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 200 upvotes and 38 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase
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Little Bracebridge Pond, Sutton Park
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Fairoak Pools
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Minster Pool
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Stony Brook Pools
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Tips from the Community
may need to take detours due to festival dismantal or no access to other routes minor issue but amazing walk
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Beautiful recreational area with numerous opportunities to spend the day
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It's easily accessible for all. There are tarmac, gravel,grass, and dirt paths that you can choose from. Great place for dog walking, too. There are cattle, deer, rabbits, etc, as well as the donkey sanctuary.
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Four Oaks Gate - Access to Bracebridge Pool, Boat House Restaurant, Blackroot Pool and Blackroot Bistro. Hartopp Gate - As for Four Oaks Gate. Town Gate - Main entrance: access to the Visitor Centre, Park House Restaurant, the Donkey Sanctuary, Holly Knoll and car parking for Keeper's Pool. Postcode for satnav users: B73 6BU. Wyndley Gate - Closed. Boldmere Gate - Access to the Miller & Carter, Hill Hurst crossroads and the Flying Field. Banner's Gate - Access to the car park at the entrance for Longmoor Valley and Longmoor Pool. Streetly Gate - Access to car parking at various points along the road, and from there to the Jamboree Stone.
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having just been in the area for 3 days and ridden all of these: Perry's blue, a new route post Commonwealth games, from the Birches visitor centre, is suitable for even the newest of MTB'ers - there is nothing technically hard. But there are some really fun berms even for experienced to enjoy and it has some good Red optional diversions as well. Follow the Dog is the next one up - a "light and fruity middling" Red - whilst some sections are steep, some are technical, some are loose/narrow/twisty - none are all 3 are at the same time. Suitable as a first time Red. And finally, Monkey is a proper hard red - some brutal sequential switchback climbs (Lung Buster), adverse camber rocky drops verging to "very dark oaky" red (Tom/Dick/Harry on Original Monkey). And the parts that are actually marked black are verging on Danny MacAskill.... Definitely not one for a first red.
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A gorgeous spot to rest on the blue route by the pool with a bench. If you sit here for long enough you might catch a sighting of the kingfisher on the hunt or fish coming to the surface to look for bugs.
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Great place for walks for all skill levels; you'll have a great day out, bring plenty of water!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes around Norton Canes known for?
The primary lakes in the Norton Canes area are Chasewater and Leacroft Pool. Chasewater, part of Chasewater Country Park, is renowned for its extensive water sports, walking, cycling, and wildlife. Leacroft Pool is primarily known as a fishing venue, offering a diverse angling experience.
Are there family-friendly lakes with activities near Norton Canes?
Yes, Little Bracebridge Pond, Sutton Park, is a great family-friendly option with numerous trails, opportunities to spot wildlife, a visitor centre, and even a nearby donkey sanctuary. Chasewater Country Park also offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and gentle paths suitable for families.
What kind of water sports can I do at Chasewater?
Chasewater offers a wide array of water sports, including water skiing, wakeboarding, zorbing, donut rides, sailing, and paddleboarding. The Chasewater Activity Centre provides both land and water-based activities.
Where can I find peaceful spots to relax by the water?
For a tranquil experience, Fairoak Pools offers a beautiful and peaceful location to watch the sunshine on the water, popular with cyclists and walkers looking for a quiet rest spot. Stony Brook Pools also provides a gorgeous spot to rest and take in the scenery, with a chance to spot kingfishers.
Are there good walking and cycling routes around the lakes?
Chasewater Country Park features numerous paths suitable for walking, running, and cycling, offering scenic views and easy access. For more challenging cycling, the Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase, offers fun and technical mountain bike trails. You can find more cycling routes in the area, including gravel biking and road cycling, by exploring the Gravel biking around Norton Canes and Road Cycling Routes around Norton Canes guides.
What historical significance do the lakes in the region hold?
Chasewater, originally known as Norton Pool, was formed in 1797 to supply water to the Wyrley and Essington Canal, supporting the region's industrial growth. Minster Pool in Lichfield, though slightly further afield, has a rich history dating back to the 11th century, originally serving as a mill pond and fishery, and playing a role in the defence of Lichfield Cathedral.
Can I go fishing at any of the lakes near Norton Canes?
Yes, Leacroft Pool is primarily a fishing venue, managed by the Blackfords Progressive Angling Society. It's known for its mixed fishery, with anglers catching carp, pike, bream, perch, and roach. Secure fishing platforms are available.
What wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
Chasewater Country Park is a haven for wildlife, offering opportunities for bird watching from hides. You might spot fallow deer, Tufted Ducks, Coots, and Little Grebes. The park also boasts rare habitats like wet lowland heathland and fens. Little Bracebridge Pond is also noted for its wildlife spotting opportunities, including wild ponies.
Are there any heritage attractions near the lakes?
Yes, the Chasewater Railway operates alongside Chasewater reservoir, offering nostalgic rides on vintage steam and diesel trains, along with a small museum. This provides a unique heritage experience in addition to the natural beauty of the park.
What amenities are available at Chasewater Country Park?
Chasewater Country Park offers a range of amenities including the Innovation Centre with visitor information, art and craft exhibitions, a café, and restroom facilities. There are also picnic areas and playgrounds, making it a well-equipped destination for visitors.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Norton Canes?
Visitors appreciate the diverse range of activities available, from high-octane water sports at Chasewater to peaceful nature walks and heritage train rides. The natural beauty, combined with well-maintained trails and family-friendly facilities, makes the area appealing for both adventurous visitors and those seeking gentle pursuits.
Are there any specific trails for mountain biking near the lakes?
Yes, Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase, is a popular mountain bike park featuring challenging and fun trails with various obstacles, suitable for fine-tuning mountain bike skills. You can explore more options in the MTB Trails around Norton Canes guide.
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