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Harewood

Top 11 Lakes around Harewood

Best lakes around Harewood offer diverse natural and man-made water features, contributing to the region's varied landscape. The area encompasses significant reservoirs and natural ponds, providing habitats for local wildlife and opportunities for outdoor activities. Harewood is characterized by its blend of historic estates and accessible natural reserves, making its lakes popular destinations for nature observation and walks.

Best lakes around Harewood

  • The most popular lakes is Paul's Pond, Breary Marsh Nature Reserve, a forest area featuring a pond…

Last updated: June 29, 2026

Eccup Reservoir

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Lots of Greylag geese some pied and grey wagtails

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Breary Marsh Nature Reserve is the finest example of a wet valley alder wood in West Yorkshire. Just walking distance from Golden Acre Park off the Otley Road, it represents …

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Waterloo Lake

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Waterloo Lake covers 33 acres (13.3 hectres) and is a popular place for rowers, with a relative new rowing club that was first started in 2006. There is a walking …

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Golden Acre Park

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A splendid spot for some quiet reflection by the cultivated flower beds and the lovely lake. Spring is a riot of colour, whilst the many heathers on display are delightful …

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Skelton Lake

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food and toilets available
long opening hours - see their website (J45 service station)

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Popular around Harewood

Hike 'God's Own County' – White Rose Way

Hiking around Harewood

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Hike 'God's Own County' – White Rose Way

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Grace Mulligan

Tips from the Community

Emma
September 8, 2025, Waterloo Lake

Some parts can get muddy if there’s been a lot of rain, one section by the cafe is very uneven. Mostly flat, beautiful views of the lake. Very popular with dog walkers and runners.

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David Howells
September 3, 2024, Waterloo Lake

Waterloo Lake covers 33 acres (13.3 hectres) and is a popular place for rowers, with a relative new rowing club that was first started in 2006. There is a walking trail that takes in a delightfully scenic 5 kilometre (approximately 3.1 miles) loop of the park and both Waterloo Lake and Upper Lake.

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Just need to be respectful of walkers and dogs You are allowed to ride on the Bridleway parts bUt not supposed to around pond

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worth a stop to see the swans and signets

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Paul C S
October 10, 2022, Eccup Reservoir

The track around the reservoir is for pedestrians only, no cycling !!

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Lots of Greylag geese some pied and grey wagtails

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Pat
September 2, 2021, Skelton Lake

Trying to keep out of the way of idiot quad rider

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Antony
July 14, 2021, Skelton Lake

If it been dry it’s a nice place to view the lake and islands

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best lakes for nature observation around Harewood?

For excellent nature observation, visit Paul's Pond, Breary Marsh Nature Reserve, which is considered the finest example of a wet valley alder wood in West Yorkshire. It's a great spot to see waterfowl and potentially kingfishers. The Lake at Harewood House is also a significant wildlife haven, home to otters, kingfishers, egrets, and various birds.

Are there family-friendly lakes and activities near Harewood?

Yes, several lakes are family-friendly. Waterloo Lake offers a scenic 5-kilometer walking trail that is popular with families and dog walkers. Golden Acre Park features a lovely lake, cultivated flower beds, and facilities, making it a pleasant spot for a family outing. The Lake at Harewood House also provides peaceful walks and a wheelchair-accessible ferry service.

What are the best lakes for walking and hiking around Harewood?

You can enjoy a scenic 5-kilometer walking trail around Waterloo Lake. Eccup Reservoir offers a track around its perimeter that is exclusively for pedestrians and is part of the West Yorkshire Cycle Route. The woodlands around the Lake at Harewood House also provide picturesque walks with towering trees and seasonal flowers.

What is the best time to visit the lakes around Harewood?

Spring is vibrant with daffodils, bluebells, and rhododendrons around the Lake at Harewood House, which boasts over 100 varieties. Autumn offers stunning reflections of changing leaves in the tranquil waters. Generally, the lakes are beautiful year-round, but specific seasonal flora makes spring and autumn particularly appealing.

Are there accessible trails around the lakes for visitors with mobility needs?

The Lake at Harewood House offers a free, wheelchair-accessible ferry service that provides magnificent views and connects different parts of the estate. While specific accessibility details for all trails vary, the ferry enhances access to the lakeside experience.

Can I cycle around the lakes in the Harewood area?

The track around Eccup Reservoir is for pedestrians only. However, this track is part of the West Yorkshire Cycle Route, and there are other tracks and bridleways that form a loop around the reservoir suitable for cycling. For more cycling options, explore the cycling routes around Harewood.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?

At Paul's Pond, Breary Marsh Nature Reserve, you can spot waterfowl and potentially kingfishers. Eccup Reservoir is known for Red Kites. The Lake at Harewood House is a haven for otters, foxes, badgers, kingfishers, egrets, nuthatches, and woodpeckers.

Are there opportunities for running near the lakes?

Yes, there are numerous running trails in the Harewood area. You can find various routes, including those around Harewood House and Eccup Reservoir, by checking the running trails around Harewood guide.

What are some unique features of the lakes around Harewood?

Eccup Reservoir is a man-made feature known for its Red Kite sightings and pedestrian-only track. Paul's Pond, Breary Marsh Nature Reserve is notable for being the finest example of a wet valley alder wood in West Yorkshire. The Lake at Harewood House features an extensive collection of over 100 rhododendron varieties and a historic landscape designed by Capability Brown.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in the Harewood region?

Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquil beauty and diverse wildlife. Many enjoy the scenic walks, the opportunity to spot rare birds like kingfishers and Red Kites, and the peaceful escape into nature. The well-maintained trails and family-friendly environments also contribute to a positive experience.

Are there any lakes near Harewood that are good for fishing?

While the guide data doesn't specifically mention fishing at the local Harewood lakes, Harwood Lake in New York (a similarly named but distinct location) is known for fishing, stocked annually with brook and brown trout. For the Harewood area in Yorkshire, it's best to check local regulations and specific lake information regarding fishing permits and opportunities.

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

Barwick In Elmet And ScholesOtleySwillingtonArthingtonPoolCarltonKippaxThornerAusthorpeGreat And Little PrestonSturton GrangeBramhopeParlingtonHorsforthMorleyLotherton cum AberfordAberfordLedshamAllerton BywaterLedstonShadwellAlwoodleyEast KeswickBardsey cum RigtonRawdonScarcroftMorleyMicklefieldGildersomeCollinghamDrighlingtonBramham Cum OglethorpeWothersome

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