Top 11 Lakes around Hambleton
Best lakes around Hambleton offer diverse natural and man-made water features within North Yorkshire. This district is characterized by its varied landscapes, including parts of the North York Moors National Park. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities centered around its lakes and reservoirs. Hambleton's geography includes tranquil natural lakes and functional reservoirs, each contributing to the region's appeal for visitors.
Best lakes around Hambleton
- The most popular lakes is Gormire Lake, an other natural feature that is a…
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Gormire Lake
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Cod Beck Reservoir
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Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve
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Lower Fish Pond
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Higher Fish Pond, Yearsley Woods
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Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; …
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Upper Oakdale Reservoir
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View of Gormire Lake from Whitestone Cliff
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If you are exploring Garbutt Wood …
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Boltby Reservoir
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View of Oulston Reservoir
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Brian's Pond, Whorlton Moor
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Popular around Hambleton
North York Moors National Park – A Walk in the Parks
Tim Woodcock's Coast to Coast off-road route – Lakes, Dales and Moors
Lyke Wake Walk — Hike a wild and ghostly part of the North York Moors
Wainwright's Coast to Coast — Hike the width of England in 13 stages
Road to Rail – Cycling in the North York Moors
Explore the North York Moors on foot – beautiful hikes by train
North York Moors Gravel and Explorer Routes
Gravel Cycling in North York Moors National Park
Moors, cliffs, and 'the finest view in England' – White Rose Walk
Road Cycling in North York Moors National Park
Other adventures around Hambleton
Tips from the Community
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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Well worth taking the path down from the Cleveland Way to Gormire Lake, where you can enjoy the peace of the ancient woodland that is Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve.
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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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Easy parking (ice cream van in summer!) at Sheep Wash, great path through the coniferous wood running along the southern edge of the reservoir, awesome views, cool breeze across the water, option to follow numerous tracks east into the woods around Cote Garth and Golden Square. Lots of familys, dog walkers and hikers - something for everyone here.
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Left for the local wildlife, this reservoir's banks can be quite overgrown in summer, making it difficult to see.
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You can also get a different view of the reservoir if you approach along the footpath from east of Pond Head Farm .
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most scenic lakes in Hambleton?
For breathtaking natural beauty, Gormire Lake is a tranquil gem surrounded by lush woodland and dramatic cliffs. Cod Beck Reservoir also offers scenic walks through coniferous woodland and SSSI moorland. Additionally, Lower Fish Pond is noted for its picturesque setting and beautiful blue waters on sunny days.
Are there walking trails around the lakes in Hambleton?
Yes, there are several walking opportunities. Cod Beck Reservoir features a well-surfaced, circular path of about 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) suitable for easy walks. Around Gormire Lake, you can explore trails within the North York Moors, including sections of the Cleveland Way, with access from Sutton Bank car park. For more extensive hiking options, you can explore the wider area with routes like those found in the Hiking around Hambleton guide.
Can I go wild swimming in any of Hambleton's lakes?
Yes, Gormire Lake is exceptionally popular for wild swimming. It is fed by an underground spring and drained by a limestone channel, resulting in very clean and surprisingly warm water with no currents, making it an ideal spot for a dip.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around Hambleton's lakes?
Both Gormire Lake and Cod Beck Reservoir are Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), supporting diverse wildlife. At Gormire, you might spot various waterfowl like coots, great crested grebes, and mallards, along with a rich variety of plant life. Cod Beck Reservoir is home to brown trout, grayling, bullhead, eel, and minnow, and otters have been sighted. The surrounding moorland is also vital for common toads.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Hambleton?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Cod Beck Reservoir offers an easy, circular path perfect for families. Lower Fish Pond and Higher Fish Pond, Yearsley Woods are also noted as family-friendly, with well-managed paths. Boltby Reservoir is another family-friendly option.
Where can I find the best viewpoints of the lakes?
For stunning panoramic views of Gormire Lake and the surrounding landscape, head to Whitestone Cliff. This viewpoint, part of the Cleveland Way, offers spectacular vistas. The circular path around Cod Beck Reservoir also provides numerous scenic spots to enjoy the water and surrounding nature.
What outdoor activities, besides walking, can I do near Hambleton's lakes?
Beyond walking, the Hambleton area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, with options for different difficulties, detailed in the Running Trails around Hambleton guide. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore routes like the 'Osmotherley South End Climb – Cod Beck Reservoir loop' mentioned in the MTB Trails around Hambleton guide.
How accessible are the lakes in Hambleton?
Gormire Lake is secluded and primarily accessed on foot, typically a 40-minute walk from Sutton Bank car park. Cod Beck Reservoir is more readily accessible, with ample parking available and the nearby village of Osmotherley offering public toilets and a small shop.
Are there any lakes with historical or folklore significance?
Gormire Lake is steeped in local myths and folklore, including tales of a knight plunging into its depths after a spectral encounter, adding a mysterious layer to its natural allure.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Hambleton?
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the best conditions for walking and wild swimming, especially at Gormire Lake. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, while winter can offer serene, crisp landscapes, though some paths might be muddy or icy. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
What makes Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve special?
Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve is a peaceful woodland reserve featuring a fresh lake and dramatic cliffs. It boasts ancient woodland with diverse flora like bilberry, heather, birch, oak, and holly, along with various lichens, mosses, ferns, and wildflowers. It's a tranquil spot for nature enthusiasts.
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