Best lakes around Priest Hutton are found in the surrounding Lancashire landscape, as the village itself does not feature significant natural lakes. The area is characterized by historical water features such as medieval fishponds and the Lancaster and Kendal Canal, a man-made waterway. Nearby, visitors can explore natural and man-made water bodies that offer diverse outdoor experiences and natural attractions.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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The Holme Mills were originally a corn mills but change to flax in the 19th century and later to a coconut matting mill. The mill carried on being used for matting up until the 1970's. Apparently in its heyday as a matting mill it had up to 300 workers. The surrounding houses were built by the Quakers owners in the early/mid 19th century in order to house the workers at the mill.
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A visit to the reserve is highly recommended. However, there is now an entry fee: £5 for cyclists.
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I think Kenny's above tip refers to the Hawes Water in the Lake District.
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Hawes Water, sometimes called Hawes Tarn on the Gait Barrows National Nature Reserve is one of only two natural fresh-water lakes in Lancashire, along with Marton Mere. Unlike its big namesake in the Lake District it is a small lake but quite deep at 30 metres. Great centre for both birdlife and insects.
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Hawes water, positioned as the easternmost lake within the Lake District, serves a crucial role as a reservoir. In 1940, the eastern side of the lake was dammed, resulting in the flooding of Mardale valley and the submersion of the village of Mardale. During periods of drought, the submerged village resurfaces, a highly anticipated event cherished by both locals and visitors.
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Incredible landscape when the tide is out.
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An underrated area to walk. Stunning views all along this route. Just a note, the path can get very narrow with the cliff edge being right next to you. Just be aware if you’re with younger children or dogs.
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One of my favourite sections of the Cumbria Coastal Way, it's so quiet and beautiful around here with expansive views across the sands.
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While Priest Hutton itself doesn't have large natural lakes, the surrounding area offers a variety of water features. You can find natural freshwater lakes like Hawes Water, man-made reservoirs such as those at Leighton Moss Nature Reserve, and impressive coastal viewpoints overlooking Morecambe Bay. The Lancaster and Kendal Canal also provides a man-made waterway for exploration.
Yes, Hawes Water is one of only two natural freshwater lakes in Lancashire, located near Priest Hutton. It's a small but deep lake known for its birdlife and insects.
The Leighton Moss Nature Reserve is an excellent family-friendly option. It features a reservoir and saltmarsh habitats, with observation hides for wildlife spotting, including bitterns and red deer. There's also a visitor centre with a shop and tea room.
At Leighton Moss Nature Reserve, you can spot diverse birdlife like bitterns and Greylag geese, as well as red deer. Hawes Water is also a significant habitat for various bird species and insects.
Absolutely. The Estuary and Clifftop Views of Morecambe Bay offer expansive and stunning vistas across the sands. You can also find scenic views of water bodies at View of Holme Mills, which overlooks a historical mill site.
The area has historical significance with water features such as medieval moated enclosures and fishponds, which survive as earthworks. The Lancaster and Kendal Canal, a man-made waterway, also crosses the extreme south-west corner of the Priest Hutton community.
You can enjoy various outdoor activities. For cycling, explore routes like the 'Arnside Viaduct – Arnside Pier loop' or the 'Lune Aqueduct – Lancaster Canal loop'. Mountain biking options include the 'Devils Bridge to Barbon loop' or the 'Arnside Knott and RSPB Leighton Moss loop'. You can find more details on these routes in the Cycling around Priest Hutton and MTB Trails around Priest Hutton guides.
Yes, gravel biking routes in the area offer scenic views. For instance, the 'Morecambe Promenade – Eric Morecambe Statue loop' provides coastal vistas. You can discover more gravel biking adventures in the Gravel biking around Priest Hutton guide.
Visitors appreciate the quiet beauty and stunning, expansive views, especially along the Cumbria Coastal Way near Morecambe Bay. The natural habitats at places like Leighton Moss Nature Reserve are also highly valued for their wildlife and peaceful atmosphere.
Yes, Leighton Moss Nature Reserve offers a visitor centre with a shop and tea room, along with observation hides for wildlife viewing.
While specific parking details for each location are best checked locally, general parking is available in nearby towns and villages such as Kirkby Lonsdale, Carnforth, and Burton-in-Kendal, which serve as good starting points for exploring the wider area.
The area can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and active wildlife, particularly at nature reserves. Autumn brings beautiful colours, and even winter walks can be rewarding, especially for birdwatching at places like Leighton Moss, though some paths might be muddy.


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