Top 17 Lakes around Amber Valley
Best lakes around Amber Valley, a local government district in Derbyshire, England, are primarily man-made reservoirs and smaller water bodies. This area offers significant recreational and ecological value within its landscape. The district provides diverse environments for outdoor activities and wildlife observation. Visitors can explore various aquatic settings, from tranquil reservoirs to nature reserves.
Best lakes around Amber Valley
- The most popular lake is Mapperley Reservoir, a lake that is a peaceful body of water surrounded by bluebell woodlands…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Mapperley Reservoir
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Erewash Meadows Nature Reserve
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Wyver Lane Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural
It's an important wetland …
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Pennytown Ponds Local Nature Reserve
Highlight • Lake
Lots of little wooden jetties to sit and …
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Nutbrook Trail
Highlight • Cycleway
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Mapperley Wood Nature Reserve
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Codnor Park Reservoir
Highlight • Natural
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View of Shipley Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Peatpits Brook Reservoir
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Loscoe Dam
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Popular around Amber Valley
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It straddles the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire county boundaries and is jointly owned by the two county Wildlife Trusts. In spring and summer the reserve's ponds and the wet sections of the canal are a refuge for grass snakes, amphibians and dragonflies. Butterflies and many other insects breed and feed on the wild flowers growing in the grassland. The meadows are best known for their birds. In spring lapwings can be seen performing their impressive aerial displays, while early mornings may offer the best chance of hearing the strange 'drumming' call of breeding snipe. More common breeding birds include the reed buntings with their distinctive black and white heads, and sedge warblers, more camouflaged but twice as noisy in declaring their presence. In spring and autumn the breeding birds are joined by waders, wildfowl and even birds of prey like the hen harrier. Many wildfowl stay for the winter, including a small flock of wigeon, numerous teal and a range of other species.
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Erewash Nature Reserve is the largest area of floodplain and grassland in the Erewash Valley. It's managed by the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust. Look out for water voles and water birds.
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The Cotes Parkland was sold off in small plots during the nineteenth century when the area was being mined for coal and ironstone. Three of the ponds were constructed during the nineteenth century as a result of mining operations, but it is thought that pond 3 is considerably older. In 1942 the area was re-landscaped for public use by Italian prisoners of war and subsequently became very popular for walking and picnicking. The creation of Cotes Park Industrial Estate in the 1970s has isolated the ponds within an industrial and residential landscape. They fell into disuse and decay and suffered from pollution. In the late 1980’s the borough council improved the ponds, which encouraged angling, walking and horse riding, there is an active friends group who have raised funds in partnership with Palmer Morewood Angling Club to install new paths and fishing pegs, the Borough Council have also improved the infrastructure and work with the Environment Agency to combat pollution.
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This area has a long coal mining history with deep mines open from 1722 until the 1960's. On the closure of the mines the area was remediated, contoured and planted with trees. The lake was also created. Initially the park was run a s a theme park but this venture didn't work so it's back to nature.
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Now reopened (December 2022) This easy cycling and walking trail runs from Long Eaton to Heanor along the Erewash Canal and a dismantled railway line. It runs for about 10 miles and is part of National Cycle Route 67. It's a great one for families or anyone looking for a safe, flat ride or walk
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The Mapperley Reservoir is a very large fresh water lake that spans 17-18 acres and includes a nature reserve that spans 2 acres. The venue, surrounded by trees and situated in a very nice setting, is a nice place to fish throughout the year.
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A feeder for the Cromford canal, this is a pleasant spot for walking and fishing, with good access for disabled anglers.
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Great little loop round the perimeter of the old American Adventure theme park site!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of lakes can I expect to find in Amber Valley?
Amber Valley is primarily home to man-made reservoirs and smaller water bodies, rather than vast natural lakes. These offer diverse environments for recreation, wildlife observation, and historical exploration. You'll find tranquil reservoirs, nature reserves, and ponds, many with walking paths and opportunities for fishing.
Which lakes are best for wildlife spotting and birdwatching in Amber Valley?
For excellent wildlife spotting and birdwatching, consider Mapperley Reservoir, known for coot, moorhen, mallard, kingfisher, and various warblers. Wyver Lane Nature Reserve is an important wetland site, home to Canada geese, tufted ducks, little grebes, and otters, with a public bird hide. Erewash Meadows Nature Reserve also offers rich opportunities for observing local wildlife.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Amber Valley?
Yes, several lakes and reserves are great for families. Mapperley Reservoir is surrounded by bluebell woodlands, perfect for peaceful walks. Loscoe Dam and Osborne's Pond also offer family-friendly environments. Additionally, Shipley Country Park, which includes lakes and reservoirs, provides 700 acres of varied landscape with play areas and a cafe, making it ideal for a family day out.
Where can I find easy walking paths around lakes in Amber Valley?
Codnor Park Reservoir features an easy path all the way around the water, with free parking. Osborne's Pond also has a path allowing visitors to walk all the way around its wooded setting. For more options, check out the easy hikes guide for Amber Valley, which includes routes like the Mapperley Reservoir & Shipley Country Park loop.
Are there any lakes with historical significance in the Amber Valley area?
Yes, the area has a rich industrial heritage. Mapperley Reservoir is surrounded by remains from the area’s coal mining history. Ambergate Reservoir, though a covered reservoir not typically for recreation, is historically significant as an Edwardian-style structure built in 1910 to supply drinking water to several major cities.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Amber Valley?
Beyond walking and wildlife observation, you can enjoy cycling on trails like the Nutbrook Trail, which runs for about 10 miles and is part of National Cycle Route 67. Fishing is popular at Mapperley Reservoir and Codnor Park Reservoir, with good access for disabled anglers at the latter. For more active pursuits, explore the running trails or cycling routes around Amber Valley.
Are there fishing opportunities at the lakes near Amber Valley?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Mapperley Reservoir is a large freshwater lake suitable for year-round fishing. Codnor Park Reservoir is also a pleasant spot for fishing, offering good access for disabled anglers. Further afield, Press Manor Fishing Lakes and Beehive Woodland Lakes provide dedicated facilities for trout and coarse fishing in picturesque settings.
Which lakes are wheelchair accessible in Amber Valley?
Codnor Park Reservoir offers an easy path around the water with good access for disabled anglers. Beehive Woodland Lakes also provides platforms suitable for disabled fishermen and easy access to its Botany Bay Lake.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Amber Valley?
Visitors particularly appreciate the peaceful and tranquil environments, ideal for walks and connecting with nature. The opportunities for wildlife spotting, especially birdwatching, are highly valued. Many also enjoy the blend of natural beauty with the area's rich historical context, such as the coal mining heritage around Mapperley Reservoir or the heritage railway near Butterley Reservoir.
Can I find nature reserves with ponds or wetlands in Amber Valley?
Absolutely. Wyver Lane Nature Reserve is an important wetland site featuring two pools, reed beds, and water meadows, making it excellent for birdwatching. Erewash Meadows Nature Reserve and Pennytown Ponds Local Nature Reserve also offer diverse wetland and pond habitats for exploration.
Are there any viewpoints overlooking lakes in Amber Valley?
Yes, you can find scenic viewpoints. For instance, there's a specific highlight named View of Shipley Lake, which offers a lovely perspective of the water. Pennytown Ponds Local Nature Reserve also includes viewpoints overlooking its ponds.
Most popular routes around Amber Valley
Most popular attractions around Amber Valley
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