Top 4 Lakes around Somersal Herbert
Best lakes around Somersal Herbert are found in a rural setting, with notable bodies of water nearby offering recreational opportunities. The area is characterized by its countryside landscape, providing access to both ornamental lakes and larger reservoirs. These locations blend natural beauty with landscaped grounds, catering to various outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Somersal Herbert
- The most popular lakes is Osmaston Park Sawmill, a historical site by a lake with an old timber mill water wheel. It offers views…
Last updated: July 11, 2026
Osmaston Park Sawmill
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Shirley Park Woodland and Pond
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Flying Birds Sculpture at JCB Lake
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JCB Lake
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JCB Lake is a public area featuring a lake and landscaped grounds, including sculptures and wildlife. It's known for its paved paths, making it a popular spot for walks and birdwatching. The lake was created in 1968 as part of JCB's commitment to conservation and landscaping.
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The JCB factory west of Rocester has worked hard to incorporate itself into the landscape. The site includes parkland and an ornamental lake which is open to the public and maintained by JCB staff. There are several statues placed in and around the lake including this flying birds sculpture.
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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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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 are some popular lakes to visit near Somersal Herbert?
Two popular destinations are the ornamental JCB Lake in Rocester and the extensive Carsington Water reservoir. Additionally, you can explore Osmaston Park Sawmill, a historical site by a lake, and Shirley Park Woodland and Pond for pleasant walks.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes?
Yes, both JCB Lake and Carsington Water offer family-friendly options. JCB Lake has an easy, paved circular path and sculptures, while Carsington Water features a visitor center with an interactive exhibition, a children's playground, and cycle hire. Osmaston Park Sawmill and Shirley Park Woodland and Pond are also noted as family-friendly.
Are there wheelchair-accessible options for visiting the lakes?
Yes, JCB Lake is highly accessible with a flat, paved circular path, suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Carsington Water also offers a fully accessible short loop around Stone's Island and provides mobility scooter hire, making it very inclusive.
What kind of walking trails can I find around the lakes?
JCB Lake offers a 1.23-mile (2 km) paved circular path. Carsington Water boasts over 12 kilometers (7 miles) of traffic-free trails for walking. For more extensive hiking, you can explore routes like the 'JCB Lake Sculpture loop from Rocester' which is an easy 3km hike. Find more hiking options in the Hiking around Somersal Herbert guide.
Can I go cycling near the lakes?
Absolutely. Carsington Water has over 12 kilometers of traffic-free trails perfect for cycling, with cycle hire available on-site. For gravel biking enthusiasts, there are routes like the 'Churnet Valley Cycle Path – Ramblers Retreat loop from Denstone'. Discover more cycling routes in the Gravel biking around Somersal Herbert guide.
Are there opportunities for watersports near Somersal Herbert?
Carsington Water is a major hub for watersports, offering sailing, canoeing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. There's a watersports center on-site where you can hire equipment.
Where can I go birdwatching or observe wildlife?
Both JCB Lake and Carsington Water are excellent for wildlife observation. JCB Lake is home to various waterfowl and birds. Carsington Water is a popular spot for birdwatching, featuring accessible bird-watching hides, and its landscaped surroundings have created new habitats for wildlife.
Are there any historical sites or unique features near the lakes?
Yes, Osmaston Park Sawmill is a historical site with an old timber mill water wheel. Shirley Park Woodland and Pond is located within the historic Shirley Park. JCB Lake also features contemporary sculptures, such as the 'Flying Birds Sculpture', blending industrial heritage with natural beauty.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the lakes?
Yes, Carsington Water has a comprehensive visitor center with a cafe. Additionally, Longford Fisheries Café is a simple cafe welcoming to cyclists and fishermen, offering breakfast and hot drinks with attractive prices and friendly staff.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Somersal Herbert?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for watersports and extended outdoor activities. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, though it's advisable to check opening times for amenities during off-peak seasons.
Is parking available at the lakes?
Parking is generally available. For Osmaston Park Sawmill, parking is easy on the street in nearby Shirley & Osmaston villages. Carsington Water has dedicated parking facilities at its visitor center.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides walking and cycling?
Beyond walking and cycling, Carsington Water offers fly fishing and a range of watersports. You can also find running trails, such as the 'Running loop from Somersal Herbert CP', which are detailed in the Running Trails around Somersal Herbert guide.
Most popular attractions around Somersal Herbert
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