Best lakes around Knayton With Brawith are situated in North Yorkshire, England, offering diverse aquatic landscapes. The area features both natural glacial lakes and man-made reservoirs, providing varied recreational opportunities. These bodies of water are often surrounded by woodlands and moorland, some designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Visitors can explore a range of environments, from tranquil, spring-fed lakes to scenic reservoirs with established walking paths.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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Gormire Lake is a natural lowland lake that lies at the foot of Whitestone Cliff, a western escarpment of the Hambleton Hills
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Meaning "filthy swamp", there are many local legends and myths surrounding this lake, such as it is bottomless (it is 6.5m deep) and was created by an earthquake that swallowed a village resulting in the lake today (it is a glacial lake).
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The public footpath down to the nature reserve from the Cleveland Way (at the location on OS maps marked as "Great Relief Pot") is reasonably steep, but can be very narrow in places with short wooden planks driven into the ground along the downward side of the path, presumably to prevent the path from eroding and collapsing. In other places there are plenty of stones and tree roots to help stabilise your ascent/descent. As you approach Gormire Lake look out for a very curious and quite large boulder that is almost an 8-10 foot high perfect cube. The nature reserve consists of ancient woodland and is very peaceful. Easy to access the water's edge at Gormire Lake.
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Easy parking (ice cream van in summer!) at Sheep Wash, great path through the coniferous wood running along the southern edge of the reservoir, awesome views, cool breeze across the water, option to follow numerous tracks east into the woods around Cote Garth and Golden Square. Lots of familys, dog walkers and hikers - something for everyone here.
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Left for the local wildlife, this reservoir's banks can be quite overgrown in summer, making it difficult to see.
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The original reservoir was built here in 1882 to supply water to the villages of Boltby, Felixkirk and Thirlby, but has been reworked, and the area landscaped since (there used to be a dam here). It's a lovely place to be, and in the spring and summer the wild meadow on its banks is a very pretty sight.
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This little and picturesque reservoir is no longer used by the water company Yorkshire Water for water supply; having reduced the amount of water in it, they nonetheless left it to exist and thrive. A beautiful place, and the forested slopes on the other side of the reservoir are truly lovely.
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For scenic walks, Cod Beck Reservoir offers a popular 1.5-mile path encircling the water through moorland and woodlands. You can also explore the ancient woodland paths around Gormire Lake and the Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve, which provides a peaceful experience.
Yes, Gormire Lake is particularly popular for wild swimming. It's known for its very clean and surprisingly warm water, with no strong currents, making it an appealing spot for a refreshing dip.
Absolutely. Cod Beck Reservoir is a great choice for families, offering an easy 1.5-mile circular path. The area is well-maintained and provides a pleasant experience for all ages.
Yes, many of the trails around the lakes are dog-friendly. Cod Beck Reservoir, for instance, is a popular spot for dog walkers, with good paths through woodlands and moorland.
The lakes are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. Around Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve, you'll find ancient woodland with birch, oak, and holly, along with various lichens, mosses, ferns, and wildflowers. Both Gormire Lake and Cod Beck Reservoir are designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), indicating their ecological importance and potential for wildlife spotting.
Parking is generally available for popular spots. For Cod Beck Reservoir, there is easy parking, including a car park located under the nearby Kilburn White Horse. Access to Gormire Lake is primarily on foot, adding to its tranquil and exclusive feel.
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer temperatures ideal for walking and wild swimming. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, while winter can provide crisp, scenic views, though some paths might be muddy or icy. Always check local conditions before your visit.
Yes, Cod Beck Reservoir features a well-defined 1.5-mile circular path that is popular with walkers. While Gormire Lake doesn't have a full circular path directly around its edge, it is part of larger circular routes that incorporate the surrounding woodlands and viewpoints.
Walks vary in difficulty. The path around Cod Beck Reservoir is generally easy and suitable for most. Trails leading to Gormire Lake, especially from the Cleveland Way, can be reasonably steep and narrow in places, with some tree roots and stones, making them more intermediate. Always wear appropriate footwear.
Yes, the wider area around Knayton With Brawith offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including moderate routes like 'Legates Plantation – Helmersdale Plantation loop'. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes and general cycling tours available. You can explore these options further in the Running Trails around Knayton With Brawith, Road Cycling Routes around Knayton With Brawith, and Cycling around Knayton With Brawith guides.
For breathtaking vistas, head to View of Gormire Lake from Whitestone Cliff. This spot on the Cleveland Way trail offers spectacular views over Gormire Lake and the surrounding landscape. Cod Beck Reservoir also provides awesome views across the water and surrounding moorland.
Gormire Lake, being accessible primarily on foot, often offers a more tranquil and serene experience compared to more easily reached locations. Its secluded nature within the woodland contributes to a peaceful atmosphere. Upper Oakdale Reservoir, no longer used for water supply, is also left for local wildlife and can be a quiet spot, though its banks can be overgrown in summer.
Gormire Lake is unique due to its hydrology; it's believed to be fed by an underground spring and drained by a limestone channel, with no rivers flowing into it. This contributes to its reputation for very clean and surprisingly warm water, making it ideal for wild swimming. It's also surrounded by lush woodland and steeped in local legends.
When visiting Cod Beck Reservoir, you can expect a scenic walking experience with a 1.5-mile path encircling the water. The area features beautiful moorland and coniferous woodlands, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It's a popular spot for families and dog walkers, offering great paths and awesome views, with easy parking nearby.


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