Top 7 Lakes around Nether Silton
Best lakes around Nether Silton are found in North Yorkshire, a region where porous limestone geology results in fewer large natural lakes. The area instead features tarns and man-made bodies of water, including reservoirs and fishing lakes. These water features offer various outdoor experiences, often set within peaceful natural or managed environments. The landscape provides a mix of natural and constructed water bodies for exploration.
Best lakes around Nether Silton
- The most popular lakes is View of Gormire Lake from…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Gormire Lake
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Cod Beck Reservoir
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Upper Oakdale Reservoir
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Boltby Reservoir
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Nether Silton.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Gormire Lake is a natural lowland lake that lies at the foot of Whitestone Cliff, a western escarpment of the Hambleton Hills
0
0
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).
0
0
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.
1
0
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.
1
0
Left for the local wildlife, this reservoir's banks can be quite overgrown in summer, making it difficult to see.
1
0
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.
2
0
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.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I expect to find around Nether Silton?
Due to North Yorkshire's porous limestone geology, you'll find fewer large natural lakes. Instead, the area features a mix of tarns, man-made reservoirs like Cod Beck Reservoir, and peaceful fishing lakes such as Stonebridge Fishing Lakes and Parklands. These offer diverse outdoor experiences in natural or managed environments.
Are there any natural lakes suitable for swimming near Nether Silton?
Yes, Gormire Lake is a natural lake known for its clean, surprisingly warm water, fed by an underground spring. It's extremely popular with wild swimmers due to the absence of currents, offering a glorious addition to a day of hiking in the surrounding nature reserve.
Where can I find scenic views of the lakes?
For spectacular views, head to View of Gormire Lake from Whitestone Cliff. This location, part of the classic Cleveland Way trail, rewards you with panoramic vistas over Gormire Lake and the surrounding landscape. The cliffs at Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve also offer dramatic perspectives.
Are there family-friendly walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, Cod Beck Reservoir features a family-friendly walk of about 1.5 miles around its edge, passing through moorland and woodlands. For more options, you can explore the Easy hikes around Nether Silton guide, which includes routes suitable for families.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes and on nearby walks?
Many of the outdoor areas around Nether Silton, including the trails near Cod Beck Reservoir and Gormire Lake, are dog-friendly. Stonebridge Fishing Lakes also explicitly states it is pet-friendly. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near wildlife or livestock.
What kind of hiking opportunities are available near the lakes?
The area offers diverse hiking opportunities. You can find trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes. For instance, the Cleveland Way passes by Whitestone Cliff, offering rewarding views. For detailed routes, check out the Hiking around Nether Silton guide.
Are there any hidden gems or tranquil spots to discover?
Upper Oakdale Reservoir is a picturesque and tranquil spot, no longer used for water supply and left to thrive with local wildlife. Its forested slopes offer a lovely, peaceful experience, though its banks can be overgrown in summer. Gormire Lake, only accessible on foot, also offers a serene and exclusive charm.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Nether Silton?
The lakes and surrounding areas are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer temperatures for activities like wild swimming at Gormire Lake. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, though some paths might be muddy or overgrown.
Are there places to eat or stay near the lakes?
While Nether Silton itself is a small village, nearby areas offer amenities. Parklands near Northallerton, for example, has an on-site cafe. For accommodation, Stonebridge Fishing Lakes offers glamping tents, and Parklands provides lodging. You'll find more options for cafes, pubs, and accommodation in larger nearby villages like Osmotherley.
Is fishing permitted at any of the lakes?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity in the area. Stonebridge Fishing Lakes and Parklands are specifically known for their fishing ponds. For other water bodies like Cod Beck Reservoir, you would need to check local regulations and acquire any necessary permits.
How accessible are the lakes by public transport or car?
Access to some lakes, like Gormire Lake, is primarily on foot. For others, like Parklands, convenient parking is available. Public transport options directly to the smaller lakes might be limited, so planning your journey, potentially involving a car and then walking, is advisable.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes and surrounding nature reserves are home to diverse wildlife. Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve are Sites of Special Scientific Interest, known for a range of plants, birds, and other wildlife. Upper Oakdale Reservoir is also left to exist and thrive for local wildlife.
Most popular attractions around Nether Silton
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Nether Silton? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
