Lakes around Ramshorn offer a diverse landscape featuring historical sites, natural waterways, and landscaped areas. This region provides opportunities for walkers to explore former industrial heritage alongside tranquil natural settings. The area combines elements of historical significance, such as old mill sites, with natural features like rivers and waterfalls. Visitors can find a variety of lakes, from those integrated into parkland to more secluded ponds.
Last updated: August 23, 2026
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The JCB factory west of Rocester has worked hard to incorporate itself into the landscape. The site includes parkland and an ornamental lake which is open to the public and maintained by JCB staff. There are several statues placed in and around the lake including this flying birds sculpture.
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I have yet to find a name for this pond online. I wondered if it belonged to the nearby Cricket Club as access from there seems to be possible? Access from the cycle track is prevented with barbed wire.
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The smelting mill is now much altered and is a private residence, but the former mill pond is a very popular place with walkers in National Trust's Dimmingsdale. Lead smelting mill described as new in 1741 and converted to corn grinding in 1784. Single high breast water wheel and three pairs of stones. The Alton Mill, situated at the mouth of Dimmingsdale, is still known at the Smelting Mill even though it had longers use as a corn mill. In 1741 Geroge Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, leased out a 'newly erected building for the smelthing of lead commonly called a smelting mill, refinery and slag hearth...' at Alton Common. In 1760 lead was still being smelted and the site had a smiths shop, two houses, a barn, nine acres and a pool. The will of Edward Coyney, 1772, mentions his share in the mill along with his share in the mines at Ecton, which is the most likely source for the lead being produced at Dimmingsdale. Source: Churnet Valley Guide
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If you are inclined to torment innocent fish going about their business, day tickets can be purchased from the visitor centre.
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The Ramshorn area offers a diverse range of lakes, from historical mill ponds like Dimmingsdale Mill Pond, which has a past as a lead smelting and corn grinding mill, to ornamental lakes such as the one at the JCB factory site featuring the Flying Birds Sculpture. You'll also find natural river features and smaller, tranquil ponds.
Yes, several lakes and natural features are suitable for families. Dimmingsdale Mill Pond is a popular spot for walkers in National Trust's Dimmingsdale. The Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary offers a scenic crossing and a pretty waterfall within the woods. Additionally, Lawn Pool is also considered family-friendly.
The area is rich in historical significance. Dimmingsdale Mill Pond is a prime example, originally a lead smelting mill from 1741 that was later converted for corn grinding. The region generally combines elements of historical significance, such as old mill sites, with its natural features.
Yes, Lawn Pool is noted as being dog-friendly, making it a good option for walks with your canine companion. Many of the walking routes around the lakes in the region are also suitable for dogs.
Yes, fishing is possible at Lawn Pool. Day tickets for fishing can be purchased from the visitor centre.
Beyond walking around the lakes, the Ramshorn area offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous cycling routes, including those detailed in the Cycling around Ramshorn guide. For off-road adventures, there are gravel biking trails, which you can find in the Gravel biking around Ramshorn guide. Running enthusiasts can also find suitable paths, with options available in the Running Trails around Ramshorn guide.
Yes, the ornamental lake at the JCB factory site, featuring the Flying Birds Sculpture, is noted as being wheelchair accessible. The area around this lake is flat and suitable for all visitors.
In addition to the lakes, you can discover natural waterways like the Churnet River tributary, where you'll find a scenic waterfall and stepping stones. The region also features forests, meadows, and diverse landscapes that provide opportunities for birding and wildlife viewing.
Visitors appreciate the combination of historical significance and tranquil natural settings. The opportunity for walks around sites like Dimmingsdale Mill Pond, the scenic beauty of waterfalls, and the unique man-made monuments like the Flying Birds Sculpture at JCB Lake are frequently highlighted. The area's diverse appeal, from historical walks to peaceful parkland strolls, is highly valued by the komoot community.
Yes, the area offers several cycling routes. Popular options include 'The Manifold Way' and 'Denstone Old Railway' loops. You can find more details and routes in the Cycling around Ramshorn guide.
You can discover a pretty waterfall within the woods near the Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary. This spot offers a scenic crossing and is a lovely natural feature to stumble upon during a walk.


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