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Snelston

Top 9 Lakes around Snelston

Best lakes around Snelston are found in the wider Derbyshire area, offering a variety of natural and man-made water features. Snelston itself is a village in Derbyshire, a county known for its diverse landscapes, including parts of the Peak District. The region features rolling hills, woodlands, and historical estates, providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore a mix of mill ponds, parkland lakes, and reservoirs within a reasonable distance.

Best lakes around Snelston

  • The most popular lakes…

Last updated: June 28, 2026

Dimmingsdale Mill Pond

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The smelting mill is now much altered and is a private residence, but the former mill pond is a very popular place with walkers in National Trust's Dimmingsdale.

Lead smelting …

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Osmaston Park Sawmill

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reasonabe incline gravel climbs on each side but a lovely place to view the lake and the old timber mill water wheel

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Shirley Park Woodland and Pond

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The nearby village of Shirley was once the seat of Earl Ferrers and the Shirley family. The parkland and woods of the estate is still called Shirley Park although the …

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Roadford Lake Dam

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Planning for the reservoir started in the 1960s and construction started in 1979. In 1984, there was a partial collapse of the dam before it was filled. The dam was …

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A very helpful arrangement of stones to cross over a tributary of the Churnet River.

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Popular around Snelston

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December 19, 2024, Roadford Lake Dam

Planning for the reservoir started in the 1960s and construction started in 1979. In 1984, there was a partial collapse of the dam before it was filled. The dam was removed before the construction of a new dam began in 1989. The finished reservoir was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1992.

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Pretty waterfall to stumble upon as you make your way through the woods.

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The nearby village of Shirley was once the seat of Earl Ferrers and the Shirley family. The parkland and woods of the estate is still called Shirley Park although the grand house is no longer evident. Walking through the woodland and along the lake side is aa nice change to the farmland of the area. The woods make a great loop either from Shirley or for a longer walk from Ashbourne.

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reasonabe incline gravel climbs on each side but a lovely place to view the lake and the old timber mill water wheel

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This tyre swing is over a shallow part of the tributary and near the 'waterfall'.

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The smelting mill is now much altered and is a private residence, but the former mill pond is a very popular place with walkers in National Trust's Dimmingsdale. Lead smelting mill described as new in 1741 and converted to corn grinding in 1784. Single high breast water wheel and three pairs of stones. The Alton Mill, situated at the mouth of Dimmingsdale, is still known at the Smelting Mill even though it had longers use as a corn mill. In 1741 Geroge Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, leased out a 'newly erected building for the smelthing of lead commonly called a smelting mill, refinery and slag hearth...' at Alton Common. In 1760 lead was still being smelted and the site had a smiths shop, two houses, a barn, nine acres and a pool. The will of Edward Coyney, 1772, mentions his share in the mill along with his share in the mines at Ecton, which is the most likely source for the lead being produced at Dimmingsdale. Source: Churnet Valley Guide

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A very helpful arrangement of stones to cross over a tributary of the Churnet River.

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Osmaston Estate is a beautiful park with plenty of ancient woodlands to explore. It is well worth planning a route which ventures through this park. The sawmill is a beautiful building located by the lake and immediately adjacent to the footpath. It is surrounded by steep bank covered with a verdant forest of very tall trees. Parking is easy on the street in both nearby Shirley & Osmaston villages.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of lakes can I find around Snelston?

The area around Snelston, within the wider Derbyshire region, features a variety of lakes including historical mill ponds, parkland lakes, and reservoirs. These offer diverse settings for exploration, from natural beauty to man-made historical sites.

Are there any historical lakes or sites near Snelston?

Yes, you can explore historical sites such as Dimmingsdale Mill Pond, which was historically used for lead smelting and corn grinding. Another notable historical site is Osmaston Park Sawmill, featuring an old timber mill water wheel by the lake.

Are there family-friendly lakes for visits near Snelston?

Many lakes in the region are family-friendly. Shirley Park Woodland and Pond offers a pleasant walk through woodlands and along the lakeside, suitable for families. Dimmingsdale Mill Pond is also a popular spot for walkers of all ages.

What kind of walking trails are available near the lakes around Snelston?

You'll find a range of walking trails. For easy hikes, consider routes like the 'Osmaston Park Sawmill – Shirley Park Woodland and Pond loop' or the 'River Dove – Okeover Mill loop'. These are part of the easy hikes around Snelston guide, offering pleasant paths through woodlands and along water features.

Can I go cycling near the lakes in the Snelston area?

Yes, there are several cycling opportunities. The gravel biking guide around Snelston features routes like the 'Bradbourne Brook Ford – Tissington Trail loop' which can take you through scenic areas near water. The Tissington Trail itself is a popular route for cyclists.

Are there any lakes with good viewpoints or natural beauty near Snelston?

Yes, Osmaston Park Sawmill offers lovely views of the lake and surrounding ancient woodlands. Shirley Park Woodland and Pond also provides scenic lakeside and woodland views, offering a change from the local farmland.

What are some less crowded lakes for walking near Snelston?

While specific crowd levels vary, exploring the smaller mill ponds and parkland lakes mentioned in the guide, such as Shirley Park Woodland and Pond, might offer a more tranquil experience compared to larger, more well-known reservoirs further afield.

What is the best time to visit the lakes around Snelston?

The lakes around Snelston can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for outdoor activities, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Winter can be picturesque, though some paths might be muddy. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.

Are there opportunities for birdwatching at the lakes near Snelston?

While not explicitly detailed for every lake, water bodies like mill ponds and reservoirs naturally attract various bird species. Visiting during quieter times of day, such as early morning or late afternoon, can increase your chances of spotting local wildlife.

Where can I find parking for walks around the lakes?

For Osmaston Park Sawmill, parking is available on the street in the nearby villages of Shirley and Osmaston. For other locations, it's advisable to check local signage or specific highlight details for designated parking areas.

Can I bring my dog to the lakes around Snelston?

Many outdoor areas in the Derbyshire region are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to check specific rules for each location, especially within managed estates or nature reserves, as some may require dogs to be on a lead or restrict access in certain areas to protect wildlife.

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

HathersageHathersageAbney and Abney Grange CPOffertonHazlebadgeBaslow and Bubnell CPGrindlefordFoolowBradwellEyamFroggattHighlowStoney MiddletonGreat HucklowCurbarGrindlow CP CPMatlock TownChatsworth CPHulland WardCalverDarley DaleBeeleyEdensorWirksworthCromfordBrassingtonBonsallMiddletonMercastonPilsleyRowsleySouth DarleyCallowBigginKirk IretonNorthwood and Tinkersley CPMatlock Bath CP CPBrailsfordHoptonHulland CPHognastonTansleyEltonBakewellCarsingtonBradley CPAtlowOffcote and Underwood CPMapletonAshbourneOsmastonWinsterTideswellLittle Hucklow CP CPHartington Middle QuarterNether HaddonIbleIvonbrook Grange CP CPAldwarkFenny BentleyBradbourneClifton And ComptonShirleyKnivetonYeldersleyHollingtonEdlaston and Wyaston CPRodsleyHassopLongford CPTissington and Lea Hall CPBirchoverNorbury and Roston CPMarston MontgomeryThorpeHarthillStanton CPCubleyLittonWardlowBallidonParwichGrattonBoylestoneAlkmontonSudburyHungry Bentley CPHartington Nether Quarter CPGreat LongstoneRowlandEaton and Alsop CPNewton Grange CPAshford In The WaterYoulgreaveDoveridgeYeaveleyChelmortonWhestonCarsington WaterLittle LongstoneOver HaddonSheldonSomersal HerbertBlackwell in the Peak CPMiddleton And Smerrill

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