Best lakes around Kelsall are situated in a region characterized by its diverse natural landscapes, including significant woodlands and wetlands. Kelsall, located in Cheshire, serves as a gateway to various water bodies that offer opportunities for outdoor activities and nature observation. The area features both natural lakes and reclaimed wetlands, contributing to its ecological richness. These water features provide habitats for wildlife and accessible paths for exploration.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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Lovely ride through Delamere Forest. You can't go wrong on a mtb or emtb. I entered the forest at New Pale and went round lots of trails to the holiday lodges and came out on Waterloo Lane.
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It does get busy around the visitors' centre and the Gruffalo trail. However, if you ride up Pale Hill and follow the perimeter of the forest, there are plenty of quiet trails to explore. Keep your eyes peeled for single tracks going through the forest, there lots of off-the-beaten-path routes to follow if you look for them.
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Nice spot for a quiet rest as I cycle the country lanes into and out of Chester.
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amazing walk just cant take the path next to the hatch mere nature reserve because it's very deep mud at the moment
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Could become overgrown in summer or muddy if wet. Interest spot to see
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Lovely place for a quick stop...there's always plenty of birdlife on or around the pond. The ducks generally boss the place,so don't mess with them :-)
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Blakemere Moss at Delamere Forest is a reclaimed wetland area. The Moss was originally formed from two kettle holes (water filled hollows formed by a detached mass of glacial ice melted in situ towards the end of the last ice age). Delamere Forest is made up of more than 100 peatland basins and includes several sites of rare 'quaking' bogland, a phenomenon in which sphagnum mosses form a carpet above peaty water that appears to tremble when trodden on. The area was drained from the 1800's, supposedly by prisoners from the Napoleonic Wars and planted with trees, (mainly oak and Scot's Pine) between 1793-1815 to provide timber for shipbuilding. The Forestry Commission planted the moss with pine and western hemlock during the 1940s, which proved uneconomic. In the late 1990's the Commission allowed the area to re-flood again naturally.
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The area around Kelsall is rich in diverse natural landscapes. You'll find significant woodlands, wetlands, and various water bodies. For instance, Blakemere Moss in Delamere Forest is a reclaimed wetland and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, known for its biodiversity. Black Lake Nature Reserve, also in Delamere Forest, is a tranquil spot with unique mosses, dragonflies, and damselflies. The region offers a mix of natural lakes and reclaimed wetlands, providing habitats for various wildlife.
Yes, Blakemere Moss in Delamere Forest is an excellent location for birdwatching. As a flooded area and Site of Special Scientific Interest, it attracts species such as greylags, Canada geese, black-headed gulls, coots, mallards, and lapwings.
Absolutely. Manley Mere is a fantastic family-friendly destination, offering a 40-acre lake with watersports and a 1.5-mile adventure trail featuring over 40 obstacles like rope swings and zip wires. Delamere Forest, home to lakes like Whitefield and Blakemere Moss, also provides family-friendly paths, a Gruffalo trail, and a Go Ape high ropes course. Tatton Park, though further afield, has expansive parkland, an adventure playground, and a working farm that families enjoy.
Manley Mere is a prime spot for watersports, offering kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, windsurfing, and open-water swimming. It also features a large inflatable Cheshire Aqua Park. At Delamere Lake Sailing and Holiday Park, you can also enjoy wakeboarding, sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and open-water swimming.
Yes, Delamere Forest, which encompasses lakes like Whitefield, Blakemere Moss, and Black Lake Nature Reserve, offers numerous walking trails. These range from easy, accessible paths to more challenging routes, allowing you to explore the forest and enjoy peaceful lakeside views. You can find more walking options in the Running Trails around Kelsall guide, which also includes walking routes.
Absolutely. Delamere Forest is a popular cycling destination with multi-use paths suitable for families and more challenging unofficial trails for experienced riders. You can find various cycling routes in the area, including options for road cycling and gravel biking. Explore routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Kelsall guide and the Gravel biking around Kelsall guide.
Delamere Forest, home to several lakes, has been undergoing redevelopment to include new multi-use paths and access roads designed to provide easier access for everyone. This means you can find accessible paths suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, particularly around the main visitor areas and some lakeside routes.
Many of the outdoor areas around Kelsall's lakes, especially within Delamere Forest, are dog-friendly. Dogs are generally welcome on trails and paths, though it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially in nature reserves or areas with wildlife, and to check specific site rules before visiting.
Manley Mere has the Chameleon Cafe on-site, serving hot and cold beverages and a seasonal menu. Delamere Forest also features a cafe and a visitor center where you can find refreshments. Additionally, Kelsall village itself and surrounding areas offer various pubs and cafes.
The lakes around Kelsall can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Spring brings new growth and wildlife, summer is ideal for watersports and longer walks, autumn showcases beautiful foliage, and winter offers tranquil, crisp views. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends, especially during peak seasons.
Yes, Tatton Park, located about 16 miles from Kelsall, is a historic estate with vast parkland that includes scenic water bodies. It features a mansion, gardens, and a working farm. Dunham Massey, a National Trust property, also offers picturesque water views, particularly across its moat towards the house, within its ancient deer park and gardens.
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse natural beauty and the wide range of outdoor activities available. The peaceful forest settings, opportunities for birdwatching at places like Blakemere Moss, and the tranquil atmosphere of Black Lake Nature Reserve are highly valued. The komoot community has shared over 29 photos and given more than 250 upvotes, highlighting the area's appeal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.


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