Top 20 Lakes around Lyme Handley

Visitors frequently enjoy Kinder Reservoir, known for its dramatic setting beneath Kinder Scout and its historical construction. Errwood Reservoir is also very popular, offering beautiful panoramic views and a longer circular walk. Trentabank Reservoir is a favorite for wildlife observation, especially its heron population.

Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Errwood Reservoir and Trentabank Reservoir are both listed as family-friendly. Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir is also an excellent choice, being one of the UK's first country parks with diverse habitats and easy access.

The lakes are rich in wildlife. Trentabank Reservoir is particularly notable for its over 20 breeding pairs of herons, and you might also spot birds of prey, red deer, and wading birds. Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir is a local nature reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to over 200 plant species and more than a hundred bird species, including Tawny Owls.

Yes, history is woven into the landscape. Kinder Reservoir was constructed between 1903 and 1911. Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir originated from the Andrews Estate in the 1820s, which included a mine, a mill, and a mill pond, and the waterways were built to power the mill. Toddbrook Reservoir, though not a highlight in this guide, was originally built in 1838 to feed the Peak Forest Canal.

The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking, running, and mountain biking routes. For specific routes and their details, explore the Hiking around Lyme Handley, Running Trails around Lyme Handley, and MTB Trails around Lyme Handley guides.

Absolutely. Errwood Reservoir has a beautiful 5-mile (8 km) circular walk, which can be combined with a 3-mile (4.8 km) walk around its neighbor, Fernilee Reservoir. The Lime Avenue ponds at Lyme Park also offer a dedicated walk through woodland and moorland. For more options, check the Hiking around Lyme Handley guide.

Many lakes provide stunning views. Errwood Reservoir is known for its amazing panoramic views. Trentabank Reservoir is itself a viewpoint, offering great opportunities for birdwatching. The descent from Pym's Chair to Errwood Reservoir also provides awesome vistas.

While specific rules vary by location, many outdoor areas in the Peak District and around these reservoirs are dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a lead, especially near livestock or wildlife. It's always best to check local signage for specific regulations at each lake or park, such as Lyme Park, which has specific dog walking areas.

Yes, there are options for easier walks. Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir offers accessible paths within its 32 acres. While some reservoir paths can be muddy, many sections are suitable for less strenuous walks. For specific easy routes, look for trails marked as 'easy' in the Hiking around Lyme Handley guide, such as 'View of the Cage and Lyme Park – The Lantern, Lyme Park loop from Lyme Hall'.

The lakes offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer provide lush greenery and warmer weather for walking and outdoor activities. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, especially in wooded areas around reservoirs like Trentabank. Winter can offer stark, beautiful landscapes, though paths may be muddy or icy, requiring appropriate footwear.

Parking is generally available at popular spots like Errwood Hall Car Park for Errwood Reservoir and at Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir. While some reservoirs might have a pub nearby, like Trentabank, dedicated cafes might be found in nearby towns or within larger parks like Lyme Park. It's advisable to check specific locations for available amenities.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural scenery, the tranquility, and the diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation. The historical significance of reservoirs like Kinder Reservoir and the rich wildlife at places like Trentabank Reservoir are also highly appreciated. The komoot community has shared over 150 photos and given more than 520 upvotes, highlighting the area's appeal.

Most of the major lakes and reservoirs in this area, such as Errwood Reservoir, Toddbrook Reservoir, and Trentabank Reservoir, are drinking water sources. For safety and water quality reasons, wild swimming is generally not permitted in these reservoirs. Always look for official signage and adhere to local regulations regarding water activities.

Walking times vary significantly depending on the lake and chosen route. For example, the circular walk around Errwood Reservoir is approximately 5 miles (8 km), which can take around 2-3 hours at a moderate pace. Shorter, easier loops are available at places like Etherow Country Park, while combining routes, such as Errwood and Fernilee, can extend your walk to several hours.