Top 10 Lakes around Walton On The Wolds
Best lakes around Walton On The Wolds are found in the surrounding Leicestershire area, offering diverse natural and recreational opportunities. This region features several reservoirs and lakes known for angling, open water swimming, and scenic walking routes. The landscape includes areas of natural beauty, historical sites, and habitats for various wildlife. Visitors can explore a range of aquatic environments, from serene reservoirs to active fisheries.
Best lakes around Walton On The Wolds
- The most popular lakes is Bradgate Park Deer Park, a lake that is a very popular attraction, known for its deer and scenic routes. It offers a lovely ride, though paths can get busy with pedestrians.
- Another must-see spot is Swithland Reservoir, a viewpoint and large body of water. It is primarily enjoyed for walking and birdwatching, with excellent viewpoints and sightings of heritage steam trains on the viaduct.
- Visitors also love Cropston Reservoir, a lake with picturesque walking routes. This reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, known for its waterfowl and unique plants, and offers a 3.5-mile path around the water.
- Walton On The Wolds is known for reservoirs, fisheries, and natural lakes. The area provides opportunities for activities such as angling, open water swimming, and birdwatching.
- The lakes around Walton On The Wolds are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 40 highlights photos and over 40 upvotes.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Bradgate Park Deer Park
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Swithland Reservoir
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Cropston Reservoir
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Most of the land required for the reservoir, dam and waterworks belonged to the Bradgate Estate. Lord Stamford insisted that a stone wall be built around the boundary to separate the deer park from the reservoir, instead of the proposed iron railings. This wall, 1,500 yards long was eventually built at a cost of 8s 10d per yard.
Joseph Reeves, Head Gamekeeper, outside his house.
Some of the Bradgate Estate land was part of the deer park, but most was farmland let out on very long leases. One farmer, Joseph Allen, lost virtually all his farm. Two members of the Matts family had theirs considerably reduced in size.
The Gamekeeper’s house and land, together with a nearby bridge, were also in the area to be flooded. The house, together with its stables and outhouses, were demolished and the bricks sold.
Part of the footpath between Anstey and Hallgates was submerged, as was the site of the old rabbit warren (or conery).
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Swithland Wood
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John Merrick's Lake
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John Merricks, was a silver Olympic medallist who competed in sailing events on a nearby lake as a schoolboy.
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Tips from the Community
In September 1867, 180 acres of land was purchased for a cost of £24,000. Most of the land required for the reservoir, dam and waterworks belonged to the Bradgate Estate. Lord Stamford insisted that a stone wall be built around the boundary to separate the deer park from the reservoir, instead of the proposed iron railings. This wall, 1,500 yards long was eventually built at a cost of 8s 10d per yard. Joseph Reeves, Head Gamekeeper, outside his house. Some of the Bradgate Estate land was part of the deer park, but most was farmland let out on very long leases. One farmer, Joseph Allen, lost virtually all his farm. Two members of the Matts family had theirs considerably reduced in size. The Gamekeeper’s house and land, together with a nearby bridge, were also in the area to be flooded. The house, together with its stables and outhouses, were demolished and the bricks sold. Part of the footpath between Anstey and Hallgates was submerged, as was the site of the old rabbit warren (or conery).
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This is the Great Pit in Swithland Wood, a site shaped by centuries of slate quarrying, with origins tracing back to Roman times. The quarry was first officially recorded in the 1300s, with activity continuing until the 19th century. Due to the presence of deep water and sheer vertical walls, the quarry is extremely hazardous and completely closed to public access.
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John Merrick's Lake is one of numerous lakes within the Reedbed Nature Reserve. The reserve is a great place for birdwatching, with wildlife all around you.
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Was pretty mucky and slippy on a gravel bike in June, although it's been a wet year
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Swithland Reservoir, opened in 1896 for Leicester, had a 500 million-gallon capacity but became insufficient. In the early 20th century, a pipeline from Derwent reservoirs in Derbyshire was required. As you pass Buddon Wood, quarried in the early Iron Age for millstones, take a moment to enjoy the scenery, woodland, and water birds. You might also catch sight of steam trains on the viaduct from this spot.
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Swithland Reservoir is a reservoir in the English county of Leicestershire. It is north-east of the village of Swithland from which it takes its name, north-west of Rothley and approximately 133 metres (145 yd) south-west of Mountsorrel Quarry. It is part of the 187.1-hectare (462-acre) Buddon Wood and Swithland Reservoir Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
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Swithland Wood is a small remnant of the original Charnwood Forest managed by part of the Bradgate Estate. As a small chunk of ancient woodland, Swithland consists of mature oak, birch, alder and lime with supports a rich variety of butterflies, moths and birds. This chunk of woodland is the type that would of previously covered all of the British mainland whilst groups of hunter gatherers moved through the landscape.
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John Merrick's Lake is on the "Red Route", a loop of hard surfaced paths around the northernmost lake in Watermead Country Park. The red route paths are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. They're also shared with cyclists. John Merricks, was a silver Olympic medallist who competed in sailing events on a nearby lake as a schoolboy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of activities can I enjoy at the lakes around Walton On The Wolds?
The lakes in the Leicestershire area offer a variety of activities. You can find excellent spots for angling, open water swimming, scenic walking, and birdwatching. For example, Swithland Reservoir and Cropston Reservoir are popular for walking and birdwatching, while Stanton Lakes is known for open water swimming.
Are there any family-friendly lakes or activities near Walton On The Wolds?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Bradgate Park Deer Park is a very popular attraction with deer and scenic routes, though it can get busy. Cropston Reservoir offers picturesque walking routes, and John Merrick's Lake in Watermead Country Park features wheelchair and pushchair accessible paths, making it ideal for all ages.
Where can I go for angling around Walton On The Wolds?
Angling enthusiasts have several options. Whetstone Gorse Fishery near Countesthorpe offers a relaxed coarse angling experience with two pools stocked with various species. Lakeside Sporting Fishery near Wymeswold also provides three large, well-stocked lakes for coarse and specimen carp angling. Cropston Reservoir is primarily a trout fishery, though it's membership-based.
Which lakes are best for birdwatching and nature observation?
Swithland Reservoir and Cropston Reservoir are both Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and excellent for birdwatching, with diverse waterfowl and unique plants. Swithland Reservoir is known for sightings of peregrine falcons in winter. John Merrick's Lake in the Reedbed Nature Reserve is also a great spot for wildlife observation.
Are there opportunities for open water swimming near Walton On The Wolds?
Yes, Stanton Lakes, southeast of Leicester, is a popular spot for open water swimming. They offer bookable, supervised sessions, making it suitable for triathletes or those looking for a relaxing swim. The site also boasts excellent water quality and beautiful surroundings.
What hiking trails are available near the lakes?
You'll find numerous hiking opportunities. Cropston Reservoir has a picturesque 3.5-mile path around the water. While direct access to Swithland Reservoir margins is restricted, pleasant paths offer excellent viewpoints. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes in the wider area, such as the 'Swithland Reservoir – Swithland Reservoir loop from Barrow-upon-Soar', which you can find in the Hiking around Walton On The Wolds guide.
Can I cycle around any of the lakes?
Yes, cycling is possible in some areas. Bradgate Park Deer Park offers a lovely ride, though paths can get busy with pedestrians, and cyclists do not have right of way. John Merrick's Lake has hard-surfaced paths that are shared with cyclists. For dedicated cycling routes, consider exploring options like the 'View of Cropston Reservoir – Beacon Hill Forest Path loop from Loughborough' in the Road Cycling Routes around Walton On The Wolds guide.
Are there any historical features or landmarks near the lakes?
Yes, the area has historical significance. Swithland Reservoir, built around 1896, is notable for the heritage steam trains that cross the historic Great Central Railway viaducts over the water. Cropston Reservoir also has historical context, with land purchased in 1867 and a stone wall built around its boundary with Bradgate Estate. Swithland Wood, nearby, features the Great Pit, a site shaped by centuries of slate quarrying dating back to Roman times.
What facilities are available at or near the lakes, such as cafes or accommodation?
Some lakes offer facilities. Lakeside Sporting Fishery has an on-site café and toilets. Stanton Lakes features a lakeside bar and bistro, as well as an adult-only, dog-friendly touring campsite with panoramic lake views. For Cropston Reservoir, toilets are available at the Bradgate Park car park.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Walton On The Wolds?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. For Bradgate Park Deer Park, it's recommended to arrive early to enjoy it at its best, as it can get very busy later in the day. Winter can be a good time for birdwatching at Swithland Reservoir, with sightings of peregrine falcons.
Are there any accessible paths for wheelchairs or pushchairs around the lakes?
Yes, John Merrick's Lake in Watermead Country Park offers the 'Red Route', a loop of hard-surfaced paths that are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. Whetstone Gorse Fishery also provides accessible swims for anglers.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes in this region?
Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and diverse opportunities. Many enjoy the scenic routes and wildlife at Bradgate Park Deer Park, especially spotting the deer. The peaceful atmosphere and birdwatching at Swithland Reservoir, along with the unique sight of steam trains, are also highly valued. The picturesque walking routes and wildlife at Cropston Reservoir are also popular.
Most popular routes around Walton On The Wolds
Most popular attractions around Walton On The Wolds
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