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United Kingdom
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Staffordshire
Staffordshire Moorlands

Waterhouses

Top 9 Lakes around Waterhouses

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.

Best lakes around Waterhouses

  • The most popular lakes is Leek Tunnel Pool, a feature near a canal…

Last updated: June 30, 2026

Dimmingsdale Mill Pond

Highlight • Structure

The smelting mill is now much altered and is a private residence, but the former mill pond is a very popular place with walkers in National Trust's Dimmingsdale.

Lead smelting …

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Leek Tunnel Pool

Highlight • Bridge

Probably best to get off the bike !!
Little tunnel through a sharp little hill.

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A very helpful arrangement of stones to cross over a tributary of the Churnet River.

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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 …

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Heathcote Mere

Highlight • Natural

Great spot to stop at, very peaceful, close to Hartington to buy drinks and snacks.

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Popular around Waterhouses

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cheshire cheese
January 31, 2026, Leek Tunnel Pool

a short sharp climb up over the top and a pleasant run down the other side towards leek

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flat and suitable for all

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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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51m
September 13, 2024, Leek Tunnel Pool

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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kris
August 4, 2024, Leek Tunnel Pool

Steep ascent going up to circa 20 deg but highly recommended to keep your fitness up 😁

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Pretty waterfall to stumble upon as you make your way through the woods.

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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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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular lakes and reservoirs near Waterhouses?

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.

Are there family-friendly lakes or activities around Waterhouses?

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.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see at the lakes near Waterhouses?

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.

Are there any historical sites or features related to the lakes?

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.

What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Waterhouses?

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.

Are there any wheelchair-accessible trails or features near the lakes?

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.

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

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.

Where can I find places to eat or get refreshments near the lakes?

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.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Waterhouses?

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.

Are there any challenging routes or trails for experienced cyclists near the lakes?

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'.

Can I go bird watching at the lakes near Waterhouses?

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.

What is the Manifold Way, and how does it relate to the lakes?

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.

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

QuarnfordHeathyleeHeatonHollinscloughLeekfrithRushtonHortonCheddletonBiddulphLeekLongsdonBrown EdgeEndon And StanleyConsallBagnallWerringtonIpstonesOnecoteCaverswallDilhorneBlore With SwinscoeCheadleForsbrookKingsleyDraycott In The MoorsCheckleyBradnopGrindonTittesworthFawfieldheadCottonWarslow And ElkstonesButtertonAltonOakamoorFarleyIlam

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