Best lakes around Scrooby include both natural river environments and restored quarry sites. Scrooby, a village in Nottinghamshire, England, is bordered by the River Idle, which offers opportunities for fishing and birdwatching. The area also features former quarries transformed into recreational lakes, providing diverse aquatic attractions. These locations offer a range of activities from cycling to angling.
Last updated: June 14, 2026
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Great spot for a quick loop while doing off-road riding, the lake links up really well to some nice singletrack and Pit top runs
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Langold Country Park was originally planned as a country house and park in the 18th century. The idea was revived in 1818 and although the house was never completed. By the 1890s a lake had been excavated and a weir with a single arch bridge had been constructed. During the early 20th century the area was developed for mining and the park became a leisure facility for the Langold miners, principally for fishing. In 1946 the coal mining industry was nationalised and the National Coal Board expanded the leisure facilities in the park. A lido or swimming pool was rebuilt in the early 1950s and a bandstand was added. In 1968 the mine closed and the park was taken over by the local authority. Mining equipment was moved and children's playgrounds and refreshment facilities were added.
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Covering 300 acres of parkland and a Local Nature Reserve, the park links into Dyscarr Wood, a Site of Special Scientific Interest recognised as one of the best examples of a limestone ash-wych elm wood in Nottinghamshire. The park itself has woodlands, wildlife and butterfly meadows, grassy area, a lake, play areas, cafe and skate park, making it a great year-round day trip for all.
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A really nice tranquil place to stop off for a break in nice surroundings. The fishing lakes and surrounding lush countryside are simply gorgeous.
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Great mix of cycle path and singe track around the lake - a very pleasant place to ride a bike. No cafe or toilet facilities by the lake, but a fine spot for a picnic or a paddle.
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"Off-Road" dusty (in summer) gravel road, accessible by car and wide enough to park on. Cuts across the middle of the Nature Reserve giving access to the heart of it.
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Can be reached by families and experts very easily most good tracks or tarmac, can be linked into numerous flat cycle routes.Bird and insect watches paradise.
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The Scrooby area features a mix of natural river environments and restored quarry sites. You'll find the historic River Idle, which offers opportunities for fishing and birdwatching, as well as several former quarries transformed into recreational lakes, such as the well-stocked Lodge Farm Fisheries.
Yes, Langold Country Park Lake is an excellent choice for families. It covers 300 acres with woodlands, wildlife meadows, a lake, play areas, a cafe, and a skate park. The Amazon Lakes Cycle Path and Langold Lakes also offer family-friendly cycling routes.
The River Idle is a known spot for fishing, both upstream and downstream of Bawtry. Additionally, Lodge Farm Fisheries at Scrooby Top Quarry is a prime destination for anglers, boasting seven well-stocked lakes like Top Pond, Lily Lake, and Field Lake, which are packed with various fish species including carp and tench. Hayfield Lakes also offers a tranquil setting for fishing.
The River Idle valley is a significant area for birdwatching, with parts of the Idle Washlands designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to their importance for wintering and breeding birds. The Idle Valley Nature Reserve provides access to the heart of this natural environment. Langold Country Park Lake also features wildlife and butterfly meadows.
Absolutely. The Amazon Lakes Cycle Path is a surfaced and lit route offering picturesque rides. Langold Lakes provides a great mix of cycle path and single track, suitable for mountain biking and linking to other off-road routes. For more cycling options, you can explore various road cycling routes and gravel biking routes around Scrooby.
Yes, there are several walking opportunities. The Idle Valley Nature Reserve offers trails, and the general area around the River Idle provides scenic environments for walks. For specific hiking trails, you can find various hiking routes around Scrooby, including options like the 'Goat Willow at Daneshill Lakes – Bowness Lake Nature Trail loop'.
Lodge Farm Fisheries provides convenient amenities for anglers, including close parking to the water and an on-site cafe serving hot and cold food.
Langold Country Park Lake was originally conceived as part of a country house and park in the 18th century. By the 1890s, a lake and weir were constructed. In the early 20th century, it became a leisure facility for local miners, later expanded by the National Coal Board. After the mine closed in 1968, the park was taken over by local authorities and developed into the recreational area it is today.
Hayfield Lakes is described as a 'really nice tranquil place to stop off for a break in nice surroundings,' suggesting a more peaceful atmosphere compared to busier recreational areas.
The River Idle is historically significant as it was once navigable. Today, it forms the eastern boundary of Scrooby and is known for its recreational opportunities like fishing and birdwatching. Its valley, particularly the Idle Washlands, provides important habitats for various bird species.
Visitors appreciate the diverse activities available, from the excellent fishing opportunities at Lodge Farm Fisheries and the River Idle to the family-friendly amenities and nature trails at Langold Country Park Lake. The picturesque cycling routes like the Amazon Lakes Cycle Path and the tranquil settings of places like Hayfield Lakes are also highly valued.


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