Top 20 Lakes around Duffield
Best lakes around Duffield are found in the surrounding Derbyshire area, offering diverse natural landscapes. The region features a mix of reservoirs and nature reserves, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. These locations are characterized by woodlands, farmland, and wetland habitats. Duffield itself serves as a gateway to these natural attractions.
Best lakes around Duffield
- The most popular lakes is Mapperley Reservoir, a lake that is a peaceful body of water surrounded by bluebell woodlands and rolling farmland. It is an excellent spot for wildlife observation, particularly birdwatching, and includes a nature reserve.
- Another must-see spot is Wyver Lane Nature Reserve, an other_natural site featuring two pools surrounded by reed beds and water meadows. Visitors can expect to see various bird species and otters in this important wetland area.
- Visitors also love View of Shipley Lake, a viewpoint offering views over a lake. This location is appreciated for its scenic outlook and opportunities for wildlife spotting on the water and banks.
- Duffield is known for reservoirs, nature reserves, and park lakes. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from tranquil spots for wildlife to larger bodies of water.
- The lakes around Duffield are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 170 upvotes and 51 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Allestree Park
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Wyver Lane Nature Reserve
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It's an important wetland site and home to Canada geese, tufted ducks, little grebes, while large numbers of gulls visit in winter. The reserve is also home to otters, a glorious sight.
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Mapperley Reservoir
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Nutbrook Trail
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View of Shipley Lake
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Tips from the Community
The area known as Allestree Park was enclosed in about 1818. The house begun by Bache Thornhill was completed by John Giradot (High Sheriff of Derbyshire) with three storeys and five bays, the central three bowed with an ionic columned porch. A large part of the estate was sold for housing development in 1928. The neglected house now stands in a 300-acre (1.2 km2) wooded parkland with lake, grasslands and former golf course, owned by Derby City Council. Allestree Park is designated as a Local Nature Reserve.
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The 18-hole Golf Course opened in 1955, was closed in December 2020 and has now disappeared. There are several colour-coded & waymarked walking, running & nature trails to enjoy. Allestree Park is perfect for families to enjoy some fresh air and a stroll.
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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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Still a lovely park but the golf course has closed and the Pro shop is no more so little opportunity for refreshments. In summer there is sometimes an ice cream van near the Hall. Park is due for "rewilding" which means there will be less open space for cycling and, for some obscure reason, a lot more fencing.
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Great little loop round the perimeter of the old American Adventure theme park site!
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Mapperley Reservoir is a peaceful body of water surrounded by bluebell woodlands, rolling farmland and some fascinating remains from the area’s coal mining heritage. The countryside around here is great for wildlife spotting, especially bird watching. Keep a lookout for coot, moorhen, mallard and kingfisher. In summer, listen out for the songs of chiffchaffs, willow warblers and blackcaps, plus the more familiar calls of robins and chaffinches. There is a visitor centre in nearby Shipley Country Park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes around Duffield for nature observation?
For wildlife enthusiasts, Mapperley Reservoir is an excellent choice, known for birdwatching with species like coot, moorhen, and kingfisher. Wyver Lane Nature Reserve is another superb spot, featuring two pools and reed beds where you can observe various bird species and even otters.
Are there family-friendly lakes near Duffield?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Mapperley Reservoir offers peaceful surroundings and wildlife spotting. Wyver Lane Nature Reserve is also family-friendly for nature lovers. Additionally, Allestree Park, with its large open spaces and lake, is perfect for a family stroll or easy cycling.
Where can I go for a scenic walk around a lake near Duffield?
You can enjoy scenic walks around Mapperley Reservoir, which is surrounded by bluebell woodlands and rolling farmland. The Nutbrook Trail also offers an easy walking path that runs near the scenic View of Shipley Lake.
Are there opportunities for cycling near the lakes around Duffield?
Absolutely. The Nutbrook Trail is an easy cycling path that runs for about 10 miles, passing by the View of Shipley Lake. For more extensive cycling, the Peak District reservoirs like Ladybower Reservoir and Carsington Water, though a drive away, are very popular with cyclists. You can find more cycling routes in the area on the Cycling around Duffield guide.
Which lakes near Duffield are good for fishing?
Mapperley Reservoir is a popular fishing destination throughout the year. Allestree Park Lake is a 7-acre mixed fishery stocked with carp, tench, bream, and pike. Further afield, Derwent Reservoir in the Peak District is known for trout fishing.
What kind of birds can I see at Wyver Lane Nature Reserve?
Wyver Lane Nature Reserve is an important wetland site where you can spot Canada geese, tufted ducks, and little grebes. Large numbers of gulls visit in winter, and otters are also frequently observed.
Are there any lakes near Duffield with facilities like car parks or picnic areas?
Ogston Reservoir, located in the Derbyshire countryside, offers three car parks, two of which provide picnic facilities overlooking the water and public toilets. Mapperley Reservoir has a visitor center in nearby Shipley Country Park.
Can I find hiking trails near the lakes around Duffield?
Yes, there are various hiking opportunities. Allestree Park features several color-coded and waymarked walking trails. For more options, you can explore the Easy hikes around Duffield guide, which includes routes like the 'Hiking loop from Duffield Castle'.
What is special about Ladybower Reservoir in the Peak District?
Ladybower Reservoir, while a bit further from Duffield in the Peak District, is famous for its captivating views and the intriguing history of the submerged villages of Derwent and Ashopton, which can occasionally be seen when water levels are low. It's a popular destination for cyclists and walkers.
Are there any lakes near Duffield that offer water sports?
Carsington Water, located in the Peak District, is a hub for outdoor activities including water sports, with kit hire facilities available. This is a great option if you're looking for more active water-based recreation.
What can I expect to see at Allestree Park Lake?
Allestree Park Lake is a 7-acre mixed fishery within the larger 320-acre Allestree Park. You can expect to see various fish species, including carp, tench, bream, and pike. The park itself offers open grass areas, woodlands, and trails for walking and easy mountain biking.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Duffield?
Visitors particularly appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for wildlife observation, especially birdwatching, at places like Mapperley Reservoir and Wyver Lane Nature Reserve. The scenic views and family-friendly trails also receive high praise, with many enjoying the chance to connect with nature.
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