Best lakes around Harome are found within the wider North Yorkshire region, offering diverse natural landscapes. Harome itself is a small village situated on the edge of the North York Moors, providing access to various bodies of water. The area features a mix of natural lakes, fishing ponds, and reservoirs, set amidst woodlands and hills. These locations provide opportunities for waterside walks and appreciating the local environment.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Highlight • Natural
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
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
You can also get a different view of the reservoir if you approach along the footpath from east of Pond Head Farm .
1
0
Cleveland Way runs the length of the southern side of this chain of lakes, but there is a short bridleway to the north of the westernmost edge of the lakes, which takes you up a climb to Dick Wood, just east of Old Byland. Lots of waterfowl and ducks.
0
0
This is a very picturesque stone bridge that's worth stopping by, separating two parts of the pond here. A lovely, green place within the Mug Dale woods.
1
0
This is one fabulous place to be: a very picturesque and beautiful little lake, with little piers on its banks in a few places. The tracks and paths around it are well-managed (thus easy to run on). On a sunny day, the waters get amazingly blue colours and the scene is truly Impressionistic!
1
0
This is a lovely little lake in Yearsley Woods to jog your way up to. Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; the other one has been drained since and is essentially a marshland now.
1
0
The actual access to the reservoir is prohibited (a locked gate), so this is the closest and best you can get to. It's lovely place to stay at - very peaceful. Because it's inaccessible to the public, it also seems wild and serene. A great place to look at.
1
0
This is one fabulous place to be: a very picturesque and beautiful little lake, with little piers on its banks in a few places. The tracks and paths around it are well-managed, not to mention the swans. On a sunny day, the waters get amazingly blue colours and the scene is truly Impressionistic!
1
0
This is a lovely little lake in Yearsley Woods to walk to. Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; the other one has been drained since and is essentially a marshland now.
1
0
For stunning scenery, consider Lower Fish Pond, known for its amazingly blue waters on sunny days and well-managed paths. Mug Dale Stone Bridge and Pond also offers a very picturesque setting with its stone bridge separating parts of the pond within Mug Dale woods. Further afield, Gormire Lake is praised for its serene environment and breathtaking views, especially from the Cleveland Way atop Sutton Bank.
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Lower Fish Pond and Higher Fish Pond, Yearsley Woods are both noted as family-friendly. Malham Tarn in the Yorkshire Dales is also highly accessible, with parts of its 3-mile circular route being wheelchair and pushchair friendly, making it ideal for families.
You can enjoy peaceful strolls around Lower Fish Pond and Higher Fish Pond, Yearsley Woods. For more extensive walks, the Cleveland Way runs along the southern side of Nettle Dale ponds, offering great photo opportunities. Gormire Lake is part of the popular Sutton Bank Nature Trail, and Malham Tarn offers a 3-mile circular route, as well as sections of the Pennine Way for more challenging hikes. For general hiking in the area, explore routes in the Hiking around Harome guide.
Gormire Lake is popular for wild swimming due to its clean, surprisingly warm water and lack of currents. However, swimmers should be aware that leeches have been reported in the lake.
Yes, Semerwater is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, with anglers able to catch bream, roach, perch, pike, and wild trout. Dromonby Fishing Lakes also offers a peaceful environment for both novice and experienced anglers, with three well-stocked lakes containing coarse species like carp, rudd, roach, and tench. Day tickets are available from dawn till dusk.
Gormire Lake is unique as one of only four natural lakes in Yorkshire, formed by glacial erosion over 20,000 years ago, and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Malham Tarn is England's highest marl lake, formed approximately 10,000 years ago, and is an important conservation area. The lakes around Harome generally offer diverse natural landscapes, from picturesque ponds with blue waters to serene reservoirs.
Visitors appreciate the serene and picturesque settings, such as the 'truly Impressionistic' blue waters of Lower Fish Pond. The tranquility and natural beauty of places like Gormire Lake are also highly valued. The opportunity for peaceful walks and wildlife observation, particularly waterfowl at Nettle Dale ponds, is a common highlight.
Malham Tarn in the Yorkshire Dales is known for its accessibility, with parts of its circular route being wheelchair and pushchair friendly, allowing everyone to enjoy the outstanding views and nature reserve.
Yes, Malham Tarn is an excellent spot for birdwatching due to its status as an important conservation area and nature reserve. Nettle Dale ponds also offer opportunities to observe various waterfowl.
Beyond walking, you can enjoy water sports at Semerwater. Fishing is popular at Semerwater and Dromonby Fishing Lakes. For cycling, explore routes in the Gravel biking around Harome guide or the MTB Trails around Harome guide, which offer various routes in the wider region.
The View of Oulston Reservoir offers a very peaceful and serene experience. While direct access to the reservoir is prohibited, the viewpoints provide a tranquil setting to observe the wild and untouched nature of the area.
The lakes around Harome, particularly those with 'amazingly blue colours' like Lower Fish Pond, are especially picturesque on a sunny day. Generally, spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walks and outdoor activities, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Winter walks can also be rewarding for a different, serene experience.


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