Top 6 Lakes around Uttoxeter Rural
Best lakes around Uttoxeter Rural are found within a region known for its rural landscape and access to diverse water bodies. This area provides opportunities to explore various lakes, reservoirs, and natural water features, suitable for outdoor activities. The landscape features rolling countryside and historical sites, enhancing its appeal for visitors seeking natural exploration.
Best lakes around Uttoxeter Rural
- The most popular lakes is Blithfield Reservoir Causeway, a viewpoint that offers expansive views across the water. This causeway crosses Blithfield Reservoir, which was built in 1953 to supply drinking water.
- Another must-see spot is Dimmingsdale Mill Pond, a historical lake. Visitors can expect a popular walking area within National Trust's Dimmingsdale, featuring the former mill pond of a lead smelting and corn mill.
- Visitors also love Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary, a natural waterfall and river feature. This spot provides a scenic crossing point over a tributary of the Churnet River, located within woodland.
- Uttoxeter Rural is known for its reservoirs, mill ponds, and natural water features. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from historical sites to large bodies of water.
- The lakes around Uttoxeter Rural are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 90 upvotes and 11 photos shared.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Dimmingsdale Mill Pond
Highlight • Structure
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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Blithfield Reservoir Causeway
Highlight • Bridge
The reservoir and surrounding woodland have been designated as a a SSSI due to the important bird life in the area.
The causeway that crosses the reservoir gives good views across the water so do stop and have a look around.
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Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary
Highlight • Waterfall
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Flying Birds Sculpture at JCB Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Pond Near Ashbourne Cricket Club
Highlight • Lake
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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Tips from the Community
Pretty waterfall to stumble upon as you make your way through the woods.
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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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Blithfield reservoir was built in 1953 to supply drinking water to the surrounding area. The reservoir and surrounding woodland have been designated as a a SSSI due to the important bird life in the area. The causeway that crosses the reservoir gives good views across the water so do stop and have a look around.
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A lovely view over the reservoir, but not the nicest road to ride, especially when there's a lot of traffic. 🌊
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some notable natural features or viewpoints around the lakes?
You can enjoy expansive views across the water from the Blithfield Reservoir Causeway. Another scenic spot is the Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary, located within woodland, offering a picturesque crossing point.
Are there any historical sites associated with the lakes in Uttoxeter Rural?
Yes, Dimmingsdale Mill Pond is a historical lake within National Trust's Dimmingsdale. It was formerly part of a lead smelting and corn mill, and while the mill is now a private residence, the pond remains a popular walking area.
Which lakes are suitable for families with children?
Several spots are family-friendly. The Dimmingsdale Mill Pond and the Blithfield Reservoir Causeway are both noted as family-friendly. Additionally, Chasewater Country Park, though a bit further afield, is described as a great place for family fun on the water with various amenities.
Are there accessible trails for wheelchairs or strollers near the lakes?
Yes, the 1.9km circular walk around the main JCB Lake, near Rocester, is wheelchair friendly and takes approximately 30 minutes. You can also see the Flying Birds Sculpture at JCB Lake along this flat and accessible path.
What kind of outdoor activities, besides walking, can I do near the lakes?
Beyond walking, you can find opportunities for gravel biking and mountain biking. For example, there are routes like the 'Churnet Valley Cycle Path – Ramblers Retreat loop' which can be found in guides such as Gravel biking around Uttoxeter Rural and MTB Trails around Uttoxeter Rural.
Are there specific lakes recommended for walking or hiking?
Many lakes offer excellent walking opportunities. The area around Dimmingsdale Mill Pond is a very popular place for walkers. For easy hikes, you can explore routes near Croxden Abbey Ruins, as detailed in the Easy hikes around Uttoxeter Rural guide.
What are the options for watersports near Uttoxeter Rural?
For watersports, Chasewater Country Park offers a wide range of activities on its 200 acres of water, including waterskiing, wakeboarding, and slalom courses. Field Head Farm in Uttoxeter, opening in April 2025, will provide open-water swimming, Stand Up Paddleboarding, Kayaking, and Raft building. Tittesworth Reservoir also offers canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Where can I go fishing near Uttoxeter Rural?
Anglers have several good options. The JCB Lakes (North and South Lake) near Rocester are popular for carp and bream. Needwood Forest Angling Club in Rangemore offers a 24-peg lake and a smaller 6-peg pond with a variety of fish including carp, tench, and perch.
Are there opportunities for open-water swimming?
Yes, Field Head Farm in Uttoxeter is set to open officially in April 2025, offering lifeguarded open-water swimming sessions on a 200m circuit. This will be a prime location for swimmers.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Uttoxeter Rural?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but for watersports and open-water swimming, the warmer months from spring to early autumn are ideal. For walking and enjoying the natural scenery, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while winter walks can also be charming.
Are there any lakes that are less known or considered 'hidden gems'?
While not explicitly a 'hidden gem,' the Pond Near Ashbourne Cricket Club is a lesser-known spot that offers a quiet natural setting, though access might be restricted in some areas.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Uttoxeter Rural?
Visitors appreciate the diverse range of experiences, from the expansive views at Blithfield Reservoir Causeway to the historical charm of Dimmingsdale Mill Pond. The scenic natural features like the Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary are also highly valued for their beauty and tranquility.
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