Top 11 Lakes around Peckleton
Best lakes around Peckleton offers a diverse natural landscape in Leicestershire, featuring various lakes, woodlands, and nature reserves. The area is characterized by its blend of reclaimed industrial sites transformed into green spaces and established forest parks. Visitors can explore a range of aquatic environments, from serene reservoirs to active dive centers. This region provides opportunities for walking, wildlife observation, and specialized water activities.
Best lakes around Peckleton
- The most popular lakes is Thornton Reservoir, a natural area that…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Bradgate Park Deer Park
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Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park
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Bagworth Heath Woods
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Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve
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Stoney Cove National Dive Centre
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Tips from the Community
Sand martins return annually to an artificial nesting wall at Bagworth Heath Wood Country Park in Leicestershire, usually arriving in March to nest through the summer. The site, featuring a specialized "Sandmartin Pool," is maintained by rangers and volunteers who refresh the sandy bank annually, with hundreds of chicks raised there.
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A great place for a simple circuit of the lake or to hook up to other nearby walks. Owned by the forestry commission, the car parks are no longer free . Card or payment by app only (cash not accepted).
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Sence Valley Forest Park is a significant area of woodland planting which has transformed the former opencast coal mining site, in north-west Leicestershire, into a haven for wildlife and visitors. The coal mine closed in 1996 and only two years later 98,000 Corsican pine, larch and poplars trees were planted. Another 100 acres of land was bought in 2018 and this was planted with a range of coniferous and broadleaved trees, as a sustainable forest for the future.
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The main path through the nature reserve (i.e. the one marked on komoot) takes you nowhere near the ponds or bird hide. You have to take the path off to the right near the Severn Trent Water station.
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A relatively new nature reserve that is being taken back by nature. The waters meander in a natural way, the land is allowed to flood in heavy rain, and as you walk through you’ll feel like you’re leaving the rest of the world behind. Loads of birdwatching - it's a great site for Warblers, Whitethroat, Rereed and Sedge warbler. Also Grey Partridge, Little Ringed Plover, Snipe, Little Owl and Kingfisher have been spotted too. Add to this birds of prey including Osprey, Merlin, Buzzard, Kestrel and Peregrine have all been seen, along with the more locally rare marsh harrier, hen harrier and Montagu’s harrier. They've even had a red-footed falcon! Best pack your binoculars and start working through that list.
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Arrive early at Bradgate Park to enjoy it at its best. It's a lovely ride, but as a very popular attraction, the park can get very busy with pedestrians later in the day. Cyclists do not have right of way, and you may be asked to dismount on very busy days. Stick to the tarmac as cycling off-route can attract heavy fines.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes for visitors around Peckleton?
Visitors frequently enjoy Thornton Reservoir, known for its diverse wildlife and traffic-free trail. Bagworth Heath Woods is also popular for its blend of woodland, grassland, and lakes, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial past. Additionally, Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park is a favorite starting point for walks.
Where can I find easy walking trails around lakes near Peckleton?
For easy walks, Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park offers short trails around the lake and through the surrounding woods. Thornton Reservoir also features a traffic-free trail around its perimeter, ideal for a leisurely stroll. Bagworth Heath Woods has mostly flat and easy-to-follow main paths.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Peckleton?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park is a great option with its easy trails and facilities. Bagworth Heath Woods also provides a family-friendly environment with varied landscapes to explore. Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve is another good choice for families interested in nature observation.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes are rich in wildlife. Thornton Reservoir is home to diverse mammals, birds, butterflies, and dragonflies. Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve is a haven for birdwatchers, with sightings of warblers, whitethroats, reed and sedge warblers, grey partridge, little ringed plover, snipe, little owl, kingfisher, and various birds of prey like osprey and buzzard. Bagworth Heath Woods is excellent for observing wildfowl and aquatic plants.
Can I go fishing at lakes near Peckleton?
Yes, the Peckleton area is known for its fishing opportunities. Mallory Park Fisheries, though a members-only club, is highly regarded as a top fishing venue in the UK, boasting nine lakes stocked with various species like carp, bream, perch, roach, and rudd.
Are there opportunities for diving near Peckleton?
Absolutely. Stoney Cove National Dive Centre, a large flooded quarry, is the UK's National Dive Centre. It offers a heated pool for training and an 'underwater adventure park' for diving enthusiasts.
Do any lakes near Peckleton have historical significance?
Yes, Bagworth Heath Woods is a reclaimed colliery site. A pit wheel on an island in its largest pool serves as a unique reminder of the area's industrial past, blending history with nature.
What outdoor activities or routes are available near these lakes?
Beyond exploring the lakes themselves, you can find various outdoor activities. There are numerous easy hikes around Peckleton, such as the Bow Pool loop from Market Bosworth. For those who enjoy running, routes like the Running loop from Desford are available. You can find more details on these activities and routes in the easy hikes guide, running trails guide, and hiking guide for Peckleton.
What facilities are available at Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park?
Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park offers a good free car park (though some car parks in the area may now require card or app payment), on-site toilets, and information boards, making it a convenient starting point for walks.
What makes Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve unique for nature lovers?
Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve is a relatively new reserve where nature is allowed to reclaim the land. Its naturally meandering waters and land that floods during heavy rains create a wild, immersive experience. It's particularly noted for its exceptional birdwatching opportunities, including rare sightings.
Are there cafes or pubs near the lakes for refreshments?
Yes, for instance, Stoney Cove National Dive Centre has a pub and cafe on site, making it a great spot to stop for refreshments. While specific cafes or pubs are not detailed for every lake, the general area around Peckleton offers various options for food and drink.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Peckleton?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and summer offer the best opportunities for wildlife observation, especially birds at Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve and butterflies and dragonflies at Thornton Reservoir. Autumn provides beautiful foliage for walks, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, though some areas might be prone to flooding.
Most popular attractions around Peckleton
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