Best lakes around Weston upon Trent CP offer a variety of natural and historical water features. The area includes significant reservoirs, historic pools, and nature reserves, providing diverse landscapes for outdoor activities. These locations often feature facilities like visitor centers, cafes, and parking, catering to different interests. The region is characterized by its blend of managed estates, conservation areas, and recreational waters.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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Formerly a colliery site, it features diverse woodland, grassland, and wetland ponds, making it a popular, dog-friendly destination for relaxing walks, historical exploration, and birdwatching.
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This beautiful nature reserve blends woodland and lakes and sits on the site of the former New Lount Colliery which closed in 1968. It's a community-managed space maintained by the Coleorton and New Lount Volunteer Group and features well-maintained trails, bird-watching and picnic areas.
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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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St Chad’s water was created in the 1970’s during the excavation of the underlying gravel deposits by Haveringham Gravels. As quarrying proceeded, water flooded the lake through the subterranean water table and once the site was abandoned, the lake and its environs were sold to Draycott and Church Wilne Parish Council for £1.00. St Chads Water and its surrounding environments are an important local resource for informal countryside recreation such as fishing, walking and bird watching. The site is approx. 23 acres and consists of the Lake with a circular walking path around it, woodland edges, a wildflower meadow area and in 2023 we have opened up a new area for use as an outdoor classroom.
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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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Yes, several lakes are great for families. Deer Park at Calke Abbey is family-friendly with walking paths. Staunton Harold Reservoir offers a playground and cafe, making it ideal for families. Melbourne Pool and St Chad's Water Nature Reserve also welcome families.
For easy walks, consider Deer Park at Calke Abbey, which has well-maintained paths. St Chad's Water Nature Reserve features a circular walking path around the lake, suitable for leisurely strolls. You can also find easy hiking routes in the wider area, such as those listed in the Easy hikes around Weston upon Trent CP guide.
Yes, several locations offer refreshments. Deer Park at Calke Abbey has a cafe within its grounds. Staunton Harold Reservoir also features a cafe. For Melbourne Pool, local shops and cafes are just a minute's walk away.
Yes, Deer Park at Calke Abbey is listed as dog-friendly, making it a good option for walks with your pet. Always check specific site rules for lead requirements.
Melbourne Pool is a historical lake with a rich past, including connections to Melbourne Castle and its use for powering Melbourne Mill. The area around Calke Abbey also has significant historical context.
Staunton Harold Reservoir and its associated Visitor Centre offer parking facilities. Many points around the reservoir allow for parking to access views and walks. Calke Abbey also has parking for visitors to its grounds and deer park.
Beyond walking, you can enjoy biking and sailing at Staunton Harold Reservoir. St Chad's Water Nature Reserve is popular for fishing and bird watching. For cycling, mountain biking, and more hiking options, explore the Cycling around Weston upon Trent CP and MTB Trails around Weston upon Trent CP guides.
The lakes are home to diverse wildlife. Deer Park at Calke Abbey is known for its deer. Melbourne Pool attracts a variety of bird species. St Chad's Water Nature Reserve is excellent for bird watching, and its wildflower meadow supports local ecosystems.
Yes, St Chad's Water Nature Reserve offers a circular walking path around the lake. Many routes around Staunton Harold Reservoir can also be combined to form circular walks, often linking with nearby areas like Calke Abbey.
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery, active wildlife, and pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter provides a peaceful, often frosty, landscape. Some sites, like Staunton Harold Reservoir and Visitor Centre, are open in winter, offering bird watching opportunities.
While some lakes are used for activities like sailing, wild swimming is generally not permitted in most reservoirs and managed lakes in the UK due to safety and water quality regulations. It's always best to check with the specific site management before attempting any wild swimming.
Walk lengths vary. For example, St Chad's Water Nature Reserve has a circular path that can be completed in a relatively short time. Longer walks are possible by combining trails around Staunton Harold Reservoir or exploring the extensive grounds of Calke Abbey's Deer Park. Many easy hikes in the region are around 3-7 km, as seen in the Easy hikes around Weston upon Trent CP guide.
Accessibility by public transport can vary for individual lakes. While some larger sites might have bus routes nearby, many natural areas around Weston upon Trent CP are best reached by car. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and routes for specific destinations before planning your trip.


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