Best lakes around Church Aston are found in the tranquil Shropshire countryside, offering a variety of natural water bodies. The area provides opportunities to explore serene lakeshores and natural reserves. This region is characterized by its rural landscape, featuring both natural lakes and former industrial pools now reclaimed by nature. Visitors can find diverse aquatic environments, from large natural lakes to smaller, peaceful pools.
Last updated: July 13, 2026
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As of May 2024 the bridge over the pool isn't crossable, so there's no north exit. The surrounding wood is very nice though
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The largest natural lake in the Midlands, Aqualate Mere is a nature reserve managed by Natural England. Although large, it is very shallow, generally no more than a metre deep. The Mere is an example of an esker system, which is rare in the Midlands, formed by glacial meltwaters during the late Devensian glaciation. Aqualate is a great place to see vast flocks of overwintering wildfowl, as well as being a breeding site for curlew and snipe. The hide offers superb views out across the water.
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Trench and Middle Pool were originally part of the surrounding canal systems. But today they're a peaceful place to ride and home to a variety of water birds and other wildlife.
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An area of old limestone quarry and lime kilns. Keep an eye out for Black Squirrels
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Good to walk or gravel around the pool :) a nice piece of nature with a little wild island in the middle of pool...
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A beautiful pool situated in Spring Village, Telford, it used to be a stream but was dammed to make way for the Horsehay Ironworks. Grab yourself a chippy from nearby & take in its beauty.
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Visitors frequently enjoy Trench Pool for its peaceful setting and wildlife, and Horsehay Pool, known for its scenic beauty and historical connection to the Horsehay Ironworks. Aqualate Mere Nature Reserve is also highly regarded as the largest natural lake in the Midlands.
Yes, Field Aston Reservoir, located near Newport, is a significant private fishing lake. It spans 3.2 acres, is well-stocked with carp up to 37 lbs, and offers amenities like an oak-framed lodge for exclusive bookings. It's known for its serene environment and impressive fish stock.
The lakes are rich in wildlife. Aqualate Mere Nature Reserve is particularly known for vast flocks of overwintering wildfowl and is a breeding site for curlew and snipe. Trench Pool is also home to a variety of water birds and other wildlife.
Absolutely. You can find various hiking routes, including an Aqualate Mere loop from Newport and easier walks like the Newport Canal – St Nicholas' Church loop. For more options, explore the Hiking around Church Aston guide.
Yes, the area offers both road cycling and gravel biking opportunities. Routes like the St. Luke's Church, Sambrook – Howley Pool Fishery loop are popular for road cyclists, while gravel bikers can enjoy trails such as the Newport to Stafford Greenway. Check the Road Cycling Routes around Church Aston and Gravel biking around Church Aston guides for detailed routes.
Many lakes in the area are suitable for families. Trench Pool, Horsehay Pool, Wrekin Reservoir, and Aqualate Mere Nature Reserve are all categorized as family-friendly, offering pleasant environments for all ages.
The region has a rich history. Horsehay Pool was formed from a dammed stream for the Horsehay Ironworks. Trench Pool was originally part of the surrounding canal systems. Additionally, Apley Woods features 19th-century landscaped woodland and is considered a historical site.
The lakes offer beauty year-round. Autumn provides stunning foliage, while spring brings new life and pleasant temperatures for walks. Winter is ideal for birdwatching, especially at Aqualate Mere Nature Reserve, which hosts vast flocks of overwintering wildfowl.
Many of the lake areas offer relatively easy access and walking paths. While specific accessibility features vary, places like Wrekin Reservoir are noted as good for walking or gravel paths around the pool, suggesting a generally accessible experience.
While some lakes are more secluded, Horsehay Pool is near Spring Village, Telford, where you can find local eateries. Field Aston Reservoir, a private fishing lake, offers an oak-framed lodge with modern toilets, showers, a kitchen sink, and refrigerators for those who book it exclusively.
Generally, dogs are welcome on walks around the lakes, but it's always advisable to keep them on a leash, especially in nature reserves like Aqualate Mere Nature Reserve, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
Aqualate Mere Nature Reserve is the largest natural lake in the Midlands. It's a rare example of an esker system formed by glacial meltwaters and is managed by Natural England. It's particularly renowned for its vast flocks of overwintering wildfowl and as a breeding site for curlew and snipe, with a hide offering superb views.


Still not found your perfect lake around Church Aston? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.