Top 4 Lakes around Horton-Cum-Peel
Best lakes around Horton-Cum-Peel are primarily found in the nearby Delamere Forest, as Horton-cum-Peel itself is a small area characterized by agricultural land and scattered woodlands. This region, located in Cheshire West and Chester, offers access to notable water bodies within a short distance. Delamere Forest, known as the "forest of the lakes," provides several natural features for exploration. The area's proximity to these sites makes it a base for experiencing diverse aquatic environments.
Best lakes around Horton-Cum-Peel
- The most…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Blakemere Moss
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Whitefield, Delamere Forest
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Black Lake Nature Reserve, Delamere Forest
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Blakemere Moss
Highlight • Forest
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Christleton Duck Pond
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Tips from the Community
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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Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the main lakes located near Horton-cum-Peel?
While Horton-cum-Peel is a small agricultural area, the most notable lakes are found in the nearby Delamere Forest. These include Blakemere Moss, Black Lake Nature Reserve, and Whitefield, Delamere Forest. Delamere Forest is known as the 'forest of the lakes' due to its many small water bodies.
What unique natural features can I find at Blakemere Moss?
Blakemere Moss is a reclaimed wetland area and a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. It's rich in biodiversity, featuring rare 'quaking' bogland where sphagnum mosses form a trembling carpet over peaty water. You can also see tree stumps protruding from the water, a remnant from when the area was drained and planted with trees.
Are there family-friendly lake areas around Horton-cum-Peel?
Yes, several spots are great for families. Whitefield, Delamere Forest offers wide, family-friendly trails. Blakemere Moss has walking trails suitable for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, Christleton Duck Pond is a lovely, quiet spot to observe birdlife.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Black Lake Nature Reserve?
Black Lake Nature Reserve is particularly known for its diverse population of dragonflies and damselflies. It's also home to unusual mosses, making it a peaceful setting for observing smaller aquatic wildlife and enjoying nature.
Are there opportunities for cycling near the lakes?
Yes, Delamere Forest, where many of the lakes are located, offers excellent cycling opportunities. You can find various routes, including easy MTB trails like the Whitemoor Trail or longer road cycling routes. For more details, explore the MTB Trails around Horton-Cum-Peel or Road Cycling Routes around Horton-Cum-Peel guides.
What kind of walking trails are available around the lakes?
The areas around the lakes, especially within Delamere Forest, offer a variety of walking trails. You can find easy hikes, circular walks, and paths suitable for birdwatching. Blakemere Moss has dedicated walking trails, and Whitefield also features many trails showcasing nature and wildlife. For specific routes, check out the Easy hikes around Horton-Cum-Peel guide.
Is there a good spot for birdwatching near Horton-cum-Peel?
Absolutely. Blakemere Moss in Delamere Forest is an excellent spot for birdwatching. It's home to species such as greylags, Canada geese, black-headed gulls, coots, mallards, and lapwings, especially since its re-flooding in the late 1990s.
What makes Whitefield, Delamere Forest a popular spot?
Whitefield, Delamere Forest is popular for its extensive woodland, covering 972 hectares, and its many trails. It's a great place for families, with multi-use paths and a visitor center. The area is also known for its diverse wildlife and the numerous small lakes dotted among the trees.
Can I find easy walks suitable for all abilities near the lakes?
Yes, Delamere Forest offers many easy and accessible paths. The multi-use paths at Whitefield, Delamere Forest are ideal for families and those seeking less strenuous walks. The trails around Blakemere Moss are also generally easy to navigate. For more options, refer to the Easy hikes around Horton-Cum-Peel guide.
What is the history behind Blakemere Moss?
Blakemere Moss was originally formed from two kettle holes. It was drained in the 1800s, reportedly by Napoleonic War prisoners, and planted with trees. However, in the late 1990s, the Forestry Commission allowed the area to re-flood naturally, restoring it to the wetland environment you see today.
Are there any other small water features worth visiting in the area?
Beyond the larger lakes in Delamere Forest, Christleton Duck Pond offers a charming, quiet spot for a quick stop. It's known for its abundant birdlife and provides a peaceful resting place while exploring the country lanes.
What activities are available at Delamere Forest beyond just lakes?
Delamere Forest, which hosts many of the lakes, is Cheshire's largest woodland area and offers a wide range of activities. Besides exploring the lakes and trails, you can enjoy mountain biking, road cycling, and various hiking routes. The forest also features a visitor center and is known for its diverse wildlife and natural beauty.
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