Best lakes around Waterhouses serves as a gateway to various lakes and reservoirs located in the surrounding Peak District and Staffordshire Moorlands. This Staffordshire village is situated on the River Hamps, a tributary of the River Manifold, and is close to the Manifold Way walking and cycling path. The area offers diverse natural features and activities for visitors exploring the region's waterways.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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a short sharp climb up over the top and a pleasant run down the other side towards leek
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Rush covered mere which used to supply the village with water and provided a convenient watering stop for packhorse trains transporting salt or coal across the Peak District.
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Part of the Leek Branch of the Caldon Canal the pool allows boats to turn around before the tunnel. The Churnet Way long distance walking trail and NCN 559 follow the canal towpath past the pool.
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Definitely recommend walking this short section in both directions, up and down
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Steep ascent going up to circa 20 deg but highly recommended to keep your fitness up 😁
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The JCB factory west of Rocester has worked hard to incorporate itself into the landscape. The site includes parkland and an ornamental lake which is open to the public and maintained by JCB staff. There are several statues placed in and around the lake including this flying birds sculpture.
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Visitors frequently enjoy Dimmingsdale Mill Pond, a historical mill pond popular with walkers. Other notable spots include Leek Tunnel Pool, known for its canal path, and the picturesque Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary. Beyond these, Rudyard Lake, Carsington Water, and Tittesworth Reservoir are also popular for their diverse activities and scenic beauty.
Yes, several locations are great for families. Dimmingsdale Mill Pond and Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary are both listed as family-friendly highlights. Tittesworth Reservoir offers leisurely strolls and bird watching, while Carsington Water provides various water sports, cycling, and walking suitable for all ages.
The area boasts a variety of natural features. You can find dramatic scenery at Rudyard Lake, serene landscapes at Blithfield Reservoir, and stunning views of The Roaches from Tittesworth Reservoir. Highlights like Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary offer picturesque settings within the woods, and Heathcote Mere is a peaceful, rush-covered natural mere.
Absolutely. Dimmingsdale Mill Pond is a historical mill pond that once served as a lead smelting mill. Rudyard Lake, a 2.5-mile long reservoir, was constructed in the 18th century to feed the Caldon Canal. Heathcote Mere also has historical significance, having supplied the village with water and served as a watering stop for packhorse trains.
The region offers diverse outdoor activities. Rudyard Lake is excellent for watersports, walking, and even features a steam railway. Carsington Water is a hub for water sports, cycling, and walking. Tittesworth Reservoir provides marked routes for walking and bird watching. For more structured activities, you can find various easy hikes, road cycling routes, and running trails around Waterhouses.
Yes, Flying Birds Sculpture at JCB Lake offers flat and suitable paths for all visitors, including those using wheelchairs. Tittesworth Reservoir also features a wheelchair-friendly bird hide, allowing accessible bird watching.
The lakes and reservoirs around Waterhouses can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and summer are ideal for watersports and longer walks, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Winter can offer crisp, scenic views, though some facilities or paths might have reduced accessibility due to weather.
While Waterhouses itself has amenities, some lake areas also offer options. For instance, Heathcote Mere is conveniently close to Hartington, where you can find drinks and snacks. Many of the larger reservoirs like Carsington Water and Tittesworth Reservoir typically have visitor centers with cafes.
Visitors appreciate the variety of experiences, from the peaceful atmosphere of places like Heathcote Mere to the active opportunities at Carsington Water. The picturesque settings, such as the Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary, and the historical context of sites like Dimmingsdale Mill Pond, are frequently highlighted.
Yes, for experienced cyclists, Leek Tunnel Pool is known for a challenging section along the canal path. Additionally, the road cycling routes around Waterhouses include moderate difficulty rides like the 'Mermaid Pool – Wetton Mill Tea Room loop' and 'Long Dale Road – Hardings Lane loop'.
Yes, Tittesworth Reservoir is an excellent spot for bird watching, featuring two bird hides, one of which is wheelchair-friendly. It provides great opportunities to observe various bird species in a picturesque setting.
The Manifold Way is a popular walking and cycling path that runs close to Waterhouses. While Waterhouses is situated on the River Hamps, a tributary of the River Manifold, the Manifold Way provides access to the wider area, connecting you to various natural attractions and routes, including some that might lead towards or pass by certain lakes and reservoirs.


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