Top 18 Lakes around Smisby
Best lakes around Smisby are found in the vicinity of this village in South Derbyshire, situated near the Leicestershire border and the town of Ashby-de-la-Zouch. While Smisby itself does not host large lakes, the surrounding area offers several accessible options for outdoor activities. These locations provide diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities.
Best lakes around Smisby
- The most popular lakes is Deer Park at Calke Abbey, a deer park that is part of the National Forest Silver Anniversary Trail.…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Deer Park at Calke Abbey
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Melbourne Pool
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Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park
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Staunton Harold Reservoir
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Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
A great place for a simple circuit of the lake or to hook up to other nearby walks. Owned by the forestry commission, the car parks are no longer free . Card or payment by app only (cash not accepted).
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Sence Valley Forest Park is a significant area of woodland planting which has transformed the former opencast coal mining site, in north-west Leicestershire, into a haven for wildlife and visitors. The coal mine closed in 1996 and only two years later 98,000 Corsican pine, larch and poplars trees were planted. Another 100 acres of land was bought in 2018 and this was planted with a range of coniferous and broadleaved trees, as a sustainable forest for the future.
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The main path through the nature reserve (i.e. the one marked on komoot) takes you nowhere near the ponds or bird hide. You have to take the path off to the right near the Severn Trent Water station.
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The Cross Britain Way is a long-distance route that goes 279 miles (450 km) from Barmouth on the West Wales coast to Boston on the East coast of England. The route was initiated to span the UK to highlight the lesser-known areas of our picturesque hidden countryside. Here you are at Staunton Harold Reservoir, which is a fair size at 210 acres (85 hectares). Here on the north-west shore, you have fine views out over the water and the surrounding woodland. There is an abundance of birdlife to look at here too. Not far away is the National Trust Cafe for Staunton Harold with access to toilets.
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Great walks and biking awesome views parking cafe
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Although its extent in the medieval period is not known, Melbourne Pool was certainly large by the early 17th century, as shown on a map of that time. Tradition says that stone for Melbourne Castle was quarried here before the area was flooded. A map of 1787 shows the Pool extending further to the west than it does now. It provided water to Melbourne Mill. The level of the water was raised by two feet at the beginning of the 18th century, in order to work the fountains in the Hall gardens, although this flooded part of the vicarage garden. By the early 19th century the pool was silted up completely at the west end. In the 1840s it was partly filled and the rest was cleaned out, making two ornamental islands and landscaping the surrounding area. In its current form it covers some 20 acres. It is not known when it was first created, but references to a mill pool are found in the early 14th century.
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A relatively new nature reserve that is being taken back by nature. The waters meander in a natural way, the land is allowed to flood in heavy rain, and as you walk through you’ll feel like you’re leaving the rest of the world behind. Loads of birdwatching - it's a great site for Warblers, Whitethroat, Rereed and Sedge warbler. Also Grey Partridge, Little Ringed Plover, Snipe, Little Owl and Kingfisher have been spotted too. Add to this birds of prey including Osprey, Merlin, Buzzard, Kestrel and Peregrine have all been seen, along with the more locally rare marsh harrier, hen harrier and Montagu’s harrier. They've even had a red-footed falcon! Best pack your binoculars and start working through that list.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some family-friendly lakes near Smisby?
Several lakes offer great amenities for families. Staunton Harold Reservoir features a playground and opportunities to see sailboats. Kingsbury Water Park boasts two well-equipped play areas and the Echills Wood Railway. Chasewater Country Park also has playgrounds and picnic areas, while Corby Boating Lake offers a free pirate-themed playground.
Are there lakes near Smisby with good walking routes?
Yes, many lakes offer excellent walking opportunities. Kingsbury Water Park has extensive footpaths and marked cycle routes. Chasewater Country Park provides excellent paths suitable for walking, running, and cycling. Sutton Park, with its seven lakes, offers diverse trails through heathland, wetlands, and ancient woodlands. You can also find easy hikes around Smisby, including routes near Staunton Harold, by exploring the Easy hikes around Smisby guide.
Which lakes are best for nature and wildlife observation?
For nature enthusiasts, Deer Park at Calke Abbey is known for its deer and other wildlife. Kingsbury Water Park is a renowned spot for birdwatchers, with 230 recorded species and accessible bird hides. Chasewater Country Park features rare habitats and diverse birds and animals. Corby Boating Lake is home to a wide range of waterfowl, including geese, ducks, swans, and kingfishers. Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve is also excellent for birdwatching, with numerous warblers, birds of prey, and other species spotted.
Are there any historical lakes or sites nearby?
Yes, Melbourne Pool is a historical lake with origins dating back to at least the early 17th century, and possibly the 14th century. Sutton Park, with its seven man-made lakes, includes pools like Keepers Pool and Bracebridge Pool that date back to the Middle Ages and were originally built for fish stocking.
What water sports can I do at lakes near Smisby?
Kingsbury Water Park offers water skiing, power boating, sailing, and model boat racing. Chasewater Country Park provides extensive water sports, including sailing, wakeboarding, water skiing, water zorbing, and paddleboarding. For thrilling, action-packed water adventures, Cliff Lakes is known for its aqua parks, open water swimming, and paddleboarding.
Are there lakes with accessible paths for wheelchairs or pushchairs?
Chasewater Country Park offers excellent paths with easy access for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Corby Boating Lake also has a path around the lake that is suitable for leisurely walks and is wheelchair accessible. Kingsbury Water Park has three wheelchair-accessible bird hides.
Where can I find cafes or refreshments near the lakes?
You can find cafes at several locations. Deer Park at Calke Abbey has a cafe. Staunton Harold Reservoir also has a cafe. Melbourne Pool is located near local shops and cafes. Corby Boating Lake has an onsite cafe, and Cliff Lakes provides a cafe for visitors.
What cycling opportunities are available around the lakes?
Kingsbury Water Park offers extensive marked cycle routes. Chasewater Country Park has excellent paths suitable for cycling. For more dedicated cycling, you can explore the Road Cycling Routes around Smisby guide or the Gravel biking around Smisby guide, which include routes near various reservoirs and parks.
Which lakes are good for fishing?
Fishing is available in designated areas at Kingsbury Water Park. Corby Boating Lake also offers fishing, with day tickets available. Sutton Park allows fishing in several of its pools, where you can find species such as bream, roach, carp, pike, perch, and tench.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Smisby?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. Highlights like Deer Park at Calke Abbey are loved for walking and their cafes. Staunton Harold Reservoir is praised for its beautiful views, biking, and playgrounds. Melbourne Pool is cherished as a peaceful spot with varied bird species. The komoot community has shared 78 photos and given 324 upvotes across these highlights, reflecting a strong appreciation for the area's natural beauty and activities.
Are there any less crowded lakes for a tranquil experience?
While popular spots can get busy, areas like Melbourne Pool are often described as peaceful. Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve is a relatively new reserve where the waters meander naturally, offering a sense of leaving the rest of the world behind, which can provide a more tranquil experience.
Can I find lakes with playgrounds for children?
Yes, several lakes are equipped with playgrounds. Kingsbury Water Park has two well-equipped play areas. Staunton Harold Reservoir includes a playground. Chasewater Country Park also features playgrounds, and Corby Boating Lake offers a free pirate-themed playground.
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