Lakes around Chipping, a village in Lancashire, UK, are situated within the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This region is characterized by its rural landscape, featuring fells, valleys, and waterways. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities centered around its natural water bodies. Chipping serves as a base for exploring the surrounding countryside and its varied aquatic environments.
Last updated: October 3, 2026
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Lovely little spot to stop, enjoy nature and recharge. Easily reached from the Quarry Car Park with well marked trails.
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Lots of hideaways to stop and admire the wildlife
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The Abbeystead reservoir was built in 1855 by the Corporation of Lancaster to supply mills lower down the River Wyre in the dry season.
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Brockholes was previously a major quarry extraction site. The land was bought by the Trust in January 2007, and the reserve opened to the public at Easter 2011. It has been regenerated as a mosaic of key habitats such as pools, reedbeds and woodland. The reserve is aimed less at dedicated bird-watchers and nature lovers than the general public of the big cities. The riverbank is covered in steaming ferns and rampant Himalayan balsam. Brockholes offers a wide range of events throughout the year and over 250 acres of trails and hides. It has already seen record numbers of breeding wading birds along with visitors such as osprey, otter and bittern. Now it's a beautiful nature reserve with amazing wildlife.
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Abbeystead Reservoir, constructed in 1855, was originally designed to provide a reliable and robust water source to power the mills downstream along the river Wyre. As the industrial era waned and the need for such water resources diminished, the reservoir ceased its active service. Nevertheless, the weirs that once regulated its flow are still diligently maintained to this day.
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Abbeystead reservoir was built in 1855 to supply a steady and powerful flow of water to the mills down the river Wyre. With the demise of the industry the reservoir is no longer in service but the weirs are still maintained.
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Grizedale Reservoir is one of three reservoirs in close proximity on the Grizedale Brook above Garstang. The reservoirs were constructed in the early 1900's to provide water for Blackpool and the surrounding area.
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For a diverse experience, consider Brockholes Nature Reserve, which features multiple lakes and extensive nature trails. Grizedale Reservoir is another popular choice, known for its scenic beauty and role in supplying water to the region. Beacon Fell Tarn offers a lovely, tranquil spot for nature lovers.
Yes, Brockholes Nature Reserve is an excellent choice for families, offering 250 acres of trails, viewing points for wildlife, and a floating visitor center with a cafe. Beacon Fell Tarn is also considered family-friendly, with well-marked trails easily accessible from the Quarry Car Park.
The lakes around Chipping, particularly Brockholes Nature Reserve, are rich in wildlife. You can spot a wide variety of birds, including wading birds, and potentially even otters and bitterns. The reserve provides diverse habitats from wetlands to woodlands, making it a haven for nature observation.
Absolutely. Brockholes Nature Reserve offers numerous trails through ancient woodland and around its lakes. Beacon Fell Tarn also has well-marked trails, perfect for enjoying nature. For more extensive hiking options, you can explore the hiking routes around Chipping, which include trails like the Fair Snape Fell loop.
Yes, cycling is possible. At Brockholes Nature Reserve, you can cycle on the Guild Wheel Cycle Route that passes through the reserve. For more dedicated cycling, there are various cycling routes around Chipping, including options for both touring and traffic-free rides.
Yes, the area features significant historical man-made structures. Abbeystead Reservoir Dam, constructed in 1855, was built to power mills along the River Wyre. Similarly, Grizedale Reservoir was built in the early 1900s to supply water to Blackpool and the surrounding area, showcasing the region's industrial heritage.
Brockholes Nature Reserve offers excellent facilities, including a floating visitor village with a lakeside restaurant and shop. It also has hides and viewing points. Other lakes may have more basic amenities, so it's always good to check specific locations beforehand.
Yes, for places like Beacon Fell Tarn, parking is available at the Quarry Car Park, providing easy access to the trails. Brockholes Nature Reserve also has parking facilities for visitors.
Many trails around the lakes are suitable for beginners and offer easy walks. Beacon Fell Tarn, for instance, has easily reached and well-marked trails. Brockholes Nature Reserve also provides accessible paths designed for general public enjoyment.
The lakes offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for wildlife spotting and enjoying the full bloom of nature, with longer daylight hours. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the surrounding woodlands. Even in winter, the reserves like Brockholes Nature Reserve remain open, offering peaceful walks and opportunities to see different bird species.
Yes, Brockholes Nature Reserve has specifically designed viewing points and hides to allow visitors to get closer to nature and wildlife without disturbance, offering great perspectives of the lakes and their inhabitants.
Policies vary by location. While some areas might be dog-friendly, it's always best to check the specific rules for each reserve or lake you plan to visit. For example, nature reserves often require dogs to be on leads to protect wildlife.
Many of the trails around the lakes, especially within nature reserves like Brockholes Nature Reserve, are designed as circular routes, allowing you to explore different areas and return to your starting point. You can find more detailed circular hiking options in the hiking guide for Chipping.


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