Best lakes around Bury offers a variety of natural and man-made water bodies within and near the town, providing diverse outdoor experiences. The area features picturesque reservoirs and country parks, catering to various activities from tranquil walks to watersports. These locations are integrated into the local landscape, often retaining elements of the region's industrial heritage alongside natural beauty. Visitors can explore a mix of open water, woodlands, and parklands.
Last updated: August 21, 2026
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Tried to ride this in late April (2025) and the water levels were so high that you couldn't access the bridleway to get through. We could see there was a bridge for the footpath in the middle of the lakes but this was well under water and tipped sideways! We had to go back on ourselves (approached from the North on the March line) and took Short Drove and Parkhall Road down to Somersham.
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Despite being home to an important airfield during the Second World War, the village of Warboys' name actually has nothing to do with conflict. It's derived from Old Norse, translating as 'beacon with bushes'. The village has plenty of amenities for walkers, including a convenience store, pubs and a bakery.
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The pleasant Cambridgeshire village of Somersham has plenty of greenspaces to explore, including a nature reserve and Somersham Pocket Park. In the village, there are a number of shops, eateries and a pub. Somersham Local Nature Reserve has developed around the disused railway line from Cambridge to March and includes a lake and areas of woodland, grassland and wildflower meadows.
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Congratulations, you are at the lowest point in the UK, 3m below sea level. The top of the iron posts marks ground level when the fen was first drained in 1850. Since then they have been progressively exposed by the shrinking peat until the tops now stand 4m above modern ground level.
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Stunningly beautiful nature reserve. Great for birdwatchers and for taking a break from cycling to get lost in nature.
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The most popular water bodies near Bury include Hollingworth Lake Country Park, Dovestone Reservoir, and Burrs Country Park. Hollingworth Lake is known for watersports and a scenic 2.5-mile walk, while Dovestone Reservoir offers dramatic moorland scenery and extensive footpaths. Burrs Country Park, located just outside Bury town centre, features diverse habitats and remnants of industrial history.
You can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities. Hollingworth Lake is excellent for watersports like sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, and rowing. Dovestone Reservoir is popular for walking, bird watching, and cycling, with rock climbing routes nearby. Burrs Country Park offers walking, fishing, picnicking, and bird watching, with an activity centre for canoeing, kayaking, and climbing. For hiking and road cycling, you can find routes in the area, such as those listed in the Hiking around Bury and Road Cycling Routes around Bury guides.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Hollingworth Lake Country Park has well-equipped playgrounds and easy walking routes. Burrs Country Park offers open spaces for picnicking and exploring, with a dog-friendly cafe. Clarence Park Lido provides a tranquil spot within an urban park, with largely level footways suitable for pushchairs.
Absolutely. Hollingworth Lake features a popular 2.5-mile circular walk. Dovestone Reservoir has an extensive network of footpaths through dramatic moorland scenery. Burrs Country Park offers various trails through woodland, wetlands, and open spaces. For easier options, consider the Easy hikes around Bury guide.
Most lakes and country parks in the area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially in nature reserve areas or near livestock. Burrs Country Park, for example, has a dog-friendly cafe and is popular for dog walks.
The lakes are rich in wildlife. Hollingworth Lake has a nature reserve with a bird hide, attracting various bird species. Dovestone Reservoir is an RSPB reserve, home to many bird species. Burrs Country Park boasts diverse wildlife habitats including woodland, wetlands, and ponds, making it ideal for bird watching and nature study.
Yes, you'll find amenities near many of the lakes. Hollingworth Lake has cafes and pubs along its lakeside. Burrs Country Park features a dog-friendly cafe. Clarence Park Lido is within Clarence Park, which is close to urban amenities in Bury.
Yes, Hollingworth Lake was originally built as a water source for the Rochdale Canal before becoming a Victorian tourist resort. Burrs Country Park retains remnants of Bury's industrial past, including the Burrs Mill chimney, and is part of the Irwell Sculpture Trail.
Clarence Park Lido in Bury offers a pleasant, largely level environment with well-maintained footways, making it accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. While other locations may have accessible sections, Clarence Park is particularly noted for its ease of access.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for watersports, picnics, and enjoying the lush greenery. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, quiet walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours. Always check local conditions before your visit.
Fishing is permitted at Hollingworth Lake, and in Woodhill Mill lodge within Burrs Country Park, which is controlled by the Ramsbottom Angling Association. Clarence Park Lido also allows fishing.


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