Top 20 Lakes around Calow
Best lakes around Calow offer diverse natural landscapes in the region. Located near the Peak District, the area features several reservoirs and nature reserves, providing opportunities for easy lake walks near Calow. These bodies of water are often surrounded by woodlands and offer a mix of natural beauty and historical significance, making them popular for outdoor activities. Many locations also provide parking for lakes near Calow, enhancing accessibility.
Best lakes around Calow
- The most popular lakes is Southeast corner of…
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Southeast corner of Linacre Middle Reservoir
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Pleasley Pit Colliery and Nature Reserve
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Ogston Reservoir
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Brick Sphere Sculpture, Holmebrook Valley Park
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Walton Dam
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Tips from the Community
Good foot paths around Linacre , very wet and muddy once you leave them . Good waterproof boots and gaiters recommend .
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Walton Dam was built in the 18th century to provide a water supply for Walton Manor Corn Mill. The site was bought by Robinson’s in 1899, as a source of water for their cotton wool production. Later it provided an area for sporting and leisure activities for staff. Chesterfield Swimming Club also held events there.
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There are three beautiful reservoirs at Linacre, aptly named Lower, Middle, and Upper, going from east to west. The reservoirs are surrounded by fields and woodland with a network of trails and footpaths. The woods are beautiful and include oak, beech, alder, larch, and pine, and in the springtime they are carpeted with bluebells. It is a scenic area, and there is a public car park on the northern edge of the woods of the Lower Reservoir.
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Not great to walk around unless you want to walk on the road a lot. There is no direct access to the reservoir because it is a conservation site. The car park is free and there are benches to sit on to watch the birds. Ognaston Bird Club conducts a guided bird walk on the first Saturday of each month and everyone is welcome. With them, you can access the reservoir surrounding areas to watch birds. If you want great views of the reservoir however you can combine a visit with a footpath walk up from the reservoir through fields and these are quite well signposted and accessible except from a slim squeeze with a holly hedge on one side and part of a footpath which is quite nettly - but will probably be okay by Autumn.
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Ogston Reservoir was created by flooding the local valley in 1958. The flooding covered the village of Woolley as well as a pub, farmland and a section of the Ashover Light Railway. The reservoir provides drinking water to the local area and is also used as a holding reservoir for Carsington Water. Today it's managed as a water source and leisure ground. The footpaths around the reservoir are popular locally. The Ogston sailing club is known for starting off Ellen MacArthur and it's also a popular trout fishing lake.
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Walton Dam, part of the Hipper Valley Trail linking Somersall Park with Queens Park & Chesterfield Town Centre.
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warm and friendly welcome but not that the prices are due to increase shortly
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Peaceful spot to grab a quick rest watching the wildlife on the pond/lake. Nice easy family peddling if you want to take the kids to feed the ducks too 👍🏻
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there easy walks around the lakes near Calow?
Yes, many lakes offer easy walking options. The Southeast corner of Linacre Middle Reservoir is particularly noted for being mostly flat, making it a good choice for an easy outing. Holmebrook Valley Park also features wide gravel paths suitable for leisurely strolls.
Which lakes around Calow are suitable for families with children?
Several lakes are family-friendly. The Southeast corner of Linacre Middle Reservoir is great for kids, with woods featuring trunk carvings. Pleasley Pit Colliery and Nature Reserve and Holmebrook Valley Park are also listed as family-friendly, offering diverse activities and open spaces.
Is parking available at the lakes around Calow?
Yes, parking is generally available. There is a public car park on the northern edge of the woods at Linacre Middle Reservoir. Ogston Reservoir also has parking available, which is free. Holmebrook Valley Park is another location with parking facilities.
Are the lakes around Calow dog-friendly?
Yes, some lakes are suitable for walks with dogs. The Southeast corner of Linacre Middle Reservoir is listed as dog-friendly, offering trails through woods and around the reservoirs.
Are there wheelchair-accessible paths around the lakes?
While not all paths are fully accessible, some locations offer well-surfaced or gravel trails. Linacre Middle Reservoir has well-surfaced tracks, though they can get muddy. Pleasley Pit Colliery and Nature Reserve features gravel trails, and Holmebrook Valley Park has wide gravel fire roads, which may be suitable for some wheelchairs.
What historical sites or features can I find near the lakes?
The area around Calow has a rich industrial heritage. Pleasley Pit Colliery and Nature Reserve is a former colliery with a museum and cafe, offering a glimpse into the region's mining past. Ogston Reservoir was created by flooding a village and a section of the Ashover Light Railway in 1958, adding to its historical context.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Calow?
Beyond walking, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find hiking routes like the 'Poolsbrook Country Park Lake' loop, road cycling routes such as the 'Ladybower & Stanage Edge' loop, and gravel biking trails like the 'Trans Pennine Trail' loop. For more details on these activities, visit the hiking guide, road cycling guide, or gravel biking guide for Calow.
Are there cafes or pubs near the lakes for refreshments?
Yes, some locations offer refreshments. Pleasley Pit Colliery and Nature Reserve has a cafe on site. While not explicitly mentioned for all lakes, many popular walking areas in the UK often have nearby establishments, or you can find options in nearby towns like Chesterfield.
What natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes are often surrounded by diverse natural landscapes. At Linacre Reservoirs, you'll find beautiful woods with oak, beech, alder, larch, and pine, and a carpet of bluebells in springtime. Pleasley Pit Colliery and Nature Reserve is a wildlife-rich area with ponds, and Ogston Reservoir is a popular spot for bird watching.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Calow?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural beauty and the opportunities for outdoor activities. Many enjoy the tranquil woodlands, the well-maintained trails, and the blend of natural scenery with historical significance, such as the former colliery at Pleasley Pit. The area is also valued for its accessibility and family-friendly options.
Can I cycle around the lakes near Calow?
Yes, cycling is possible at some locations. You can cycle around the middle and lower reservoirs at Linacre Reservoirs, and these can link up to MTB routes. Holmebrook Valley Park is also a great place for biking, with several cycle paths and wide gravel fire roads that connect to other routes around Chesterfield.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots among the lakes?
While the main reservoirs are well-known, exploring the extensive network of trails and woodlands surrounding them can reveal quieter spots. For instance, the Linacre Upper Reservoir Boardwalk offers a unique experience of being close to the water, which many find particularly scenic and peaceful.
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