Top 12 Lakes around Crigglestone
Best lakes around Crigglestone are found within the village's vicinity and the broader Wakefield area in West Yorkshire, England. This region offers access to notable lakes within country parks, providing natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Key locations include Pugneys Country Park and Newmillerdam Lake, both easily accessible from Crigglestone. These sites offer diverse landscapes, from former industrial lands transformed into nature reserves to historic mill ponds.
Best lakes around Crigglestone
- The most popular lakes is Cold Hiendley Reservoir, a…
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Newmillerdam Lake
Highlight • Natural Monument
The dam was built …
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Pugneys Country Park Lake
Highlight • Rest Area
Toilets are open too
Pugneys Country Park is a 250-acre park located on the A636 between Wakefield, West Yorkshire, England …
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Cold Hiendley Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Stanley Marsh Local Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural
The Marsh was once …
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Ardsley Reservoir
Highlight • Other
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Tips from the Community
I expect this was for charity but there a lots of them loose from Jurassic Park lol
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This is vast and looks great as you get over the little bridge
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Cold Hiendley Reservoir was constructed at the beginning of the 20th century to supply water to the growing city of Wakefield. The dam had to be strengthened in 1990. This is a popular fishing reservoir with large carp. There is a nice trail around the edge and the Trans Pennine Trail follows the Barnsley Canal path past the dam.
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Newmiller Dam is the lake created by the dam for the new mill :-) The village is called Newmillerdam as in New Mill on the Dam. The dam was built to provide a lake and therefore power to the mills owned by the Pashley family just south of Wakefield. The lake and surrounding area is now a nature reserve owned and managed by Wakefield Council. The lake has a well surfaced path all around it, suitable mostly for pushchairs and wheelchairs as well as kids on bikes. It's a popular place and fun for a short walk.
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Popular reservoir for open water swimming and other water sports just to the east of Leeds.
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This area was once fields but shallow flooding occurred after the Second World War due to the clogging up of surface water drains and mining subsidence. The Marsh was once part of the multi-pit Victoria Colliery which had working shafts between Outwood and Stanley Ferry. The pit here was sunk about 1835 and was known locally as Deep Drop Pit. It had its own pumping engine whose foundations can still be seen. A colliery railway passed through the site between 1837 and approximately 1840 and can be seen today as the embankment. The colliery closed in 1896. On 4 March 1879 while 250 men and 36 horses were at work, there was a large explosion which killed 21 men and boys.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes near Crigglestone are best for family outings?
Both Newmillerdam Lake and Pugneys Country Park Lake are excellent choices for families. Newmillerdam Lake has a well-surfaced path suitable for pushchairs and children on bikes, while Pugneys Country Park offers a miniature railway and a cafe, alongside its two lakes.
Are there accessible walking trails around the lakes near Crigglestone?
Yes, Newmillerdam Lake features a well-surfaced path encircling the entire lake, making it highly accessible for walkers, those with pushchairs or wheelchairs, and children on bikes. Disabled parking spots and wide entrances further enhance accessibility.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?
At Pugneys Country Park Lake, the smaller lake is designated as a nature reserve and is particularly known for hosting a substantial flock of non-breeding swans, sometimes numbering up to 100. You can also spot swans around Cold Hiendley Reservoir and enjoy local wildlife at Newmillerdam Lake.
Can I do water sports at any of the lakes?
Yes, the larger lake at Pugneys Country Park Lake is specifically designated for non-powered water sports, offering opportunities for activities like sailing, windsurfing, and canoeing. Ardsley Reservoir is also popular for open water swimming and other water sports.
Are there historical sites or unique features near the lakes?
Yes, Stanley Marsh Local Nature Reserve, which includes a lake, is a former colliery site with historical significance. You can still see foundations of a pumping engine and an old colliery railway embankment. The village of Newmillerdam, near Newmillerdam Lake, also has a history tied to mills powered by the lake.
Where can I find easy hiking trails around the lakes?
For easy hikes, consider the trails around Newmillerdam Lake. You can find several easy routes, such as 'A loop of Newmiller Dam' or 'Woodland Stream – Newmillerdam Lake loop from Chevet'. More options are available in the Easy hikes around Crigglestone guide.
What are the options for running trails near the lakes?
Runners can enjoy trails like the 'Pugneys Country Park Lake loop from Arriva Yorkshire' which is an easy 3.2 km route. For more challenging options, consider routes like 'Cold Hiendley Reservoir – Haw Park Woods loop from Chevet'. Explore more running trails in the Running Trails around Crigglestone guide.
Are the lakes dog-friendly?
Yes, Ardsley Reservoir is noted as a dog-friendly location, popular with dog walkers. Many of the other lake areas, like Newmillerdam Lake and Pugneys Country Park, are also generally welcoming to dogs, though specific rules regarding leads may apply.
What amenities are available at Pugneys Country Park?
Pugneys Country Park Lake offers cafeteria facilities, and toilets are also available. The park also features a miniature railway that operates on weekends and bank holidays, adding to the visitor experience.
Are there good viewpoints for photography around the lakes?
Yes, Cold Hiendley Reservoir offers very nice views, especially with swans and other wildlife, making it a good spot for photography. Pugneys Country Park Lake also provides scenic views, including distant glimpses of Sandal Castle.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near Crigglestone?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for water sports and longer walks. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, and even in winter, the tranquil settings of places like Newmillerdam Lake can be very peaceful.
Are there any less crowded lakes for a quieter experience?
While Newmillerdam Lake and Pugneys Country Park Lake can be popular, visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays can offer a quieter experience. Cold Hiendley Reservoir might also offer a more serene atmosphere, especially for birdwatching.
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