Lakes around Brinsworth offer diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation within the wider Rotherham area. The region features a mix of artificial lakes developed from former industrial sites, natural ponds, and wetland reserves. These water bodies provide habitats for wildlife and serve as focal points for walking, watersports, and fishing. The landscape is characterized by its post-industrial regeneration, creating green spaces for public enjoyment.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
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 • Forest
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Brinsworth.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Ford Wheel Dam in the Moss Valley is a historic 18th-century site formerly used for water-powered edge tool manufacturing. It powered a grinding wheel on the River Moss and is now a tranquil, scenic spot known for local wildlife & fishing,
0
0
Neverfear Dam is a historic water-powered site from around 1709 located on the River Moss near Ford in the Moss Valley, Sheffield. It served the local cutlery industry for grinding tools and is surrounded by local folklore, reportedly named in 1795 after a ghost told terrified sickle makers to "never fear".
0
0
Nice easy flat ride round both lakes a mixture of gravel paths and tarmac roads around the park also a caffe and toilets within the park.
0
0
Great early in the morning. Best avoided after 10am, gets very busy
0
0
The park was formerly a mixture of meadows and marshy bullrush beds before the open cast excavation started. At the eastern side of the lake stands the Bedgrave Mill courtyard, where the visitor centre is located displaying the flood defence map and the original mill mechanism "flour into grain" exhibition from when it was a water mill. There is also a craft centre and "The Stables" cafe.
0
0
The most popular destination is Rother Valley Country Park, which features three large artificial lakes and extensive recreational areas. Visitors also enjoy the peaceful environment of Dog Kennel Pond and the woodland trails and fishing at Ford Wheel Dam Pond.
Yes, Rother Valley Country Park is particularly family-friendly, offering an aqua park, cable ski, sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and extensive bike tracks. There are also picnic areas, BBQs, and opportunities for bird feeding. The park hosts various events throughout the year. Lakeside Cafe is also a great spot for families with children to enjoy snacks and watch ducks.
The lakes and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. At Rother Valley Country Park, you can spot kingfishers, herons, and various waterfowl in its diverse habitats, including wetlands, meadows, and woodlands. Centenary Riverside, a wetland reserve, is a haven for over 23 species of butterflies, damselflies, dragonflies, and birds like Sand Martins, Moorhens, Reed Warblers, and Kingfishers. Otter homes have also been built there.
Absolutely. Rother Valley Country Park is a prime location for watersports, offering an aqua park, cable ski, sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. Equipment hire and lessons are available for many of these activities.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. At Rother Valley Country Park, fishing is permitted in Nethermoore Lake, Northern Lake, and the River Rother, requiring a Rod Licence and a day ticket. For dedicated anglers, Wentworth Fisheries, located within the Wentworth Woodhouse estate, offers three principal lakes (Mill Dam, Dog Kennel Pond, and Morley Pond) known for coarse and carp fishing. Access to Wentworth Fisheries is typically via membership or season tickets.
Many lakes offer excellent trails. Rother Valley Country Park features extensive bike tracks suitable for all abilities and flat lakeside walks. Centenary Riverside has a network of surfaced paths and a boardwalk, with parts accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. For more detailed routes, you can explore the hiking trails around Brinsworth or MTB trails around Brinsworth on komoot.
Yes, Rother Valley Country Park has a visitor centre and 'The Stables' cafe. Additionally, the Lakeside Cafe offers food, snacks, and ice creams, with both indoor and outdoor seating right next to the car park.
Rother Valley Country Park was developed on the site of a former open-cast coal mine. The three large artificial lakes now fill the old extraction sites. The park also serves as a flood prevention scheme, managing water flow downstream. The visitor centre provides information about the site's history and the flood defence scheme. You can learn more about its history on Wikipedia.
Yes, Centenary Riverside offers a network of surfaced paths and a boardwalk, with parts designed to be accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs, allowing everyone to enjoy the natural environment.
Centenary Riverside is a 4.5-hectare wetland reserve that plays a crucial role in flood alleviation for the area. It features a marshland lake with three islands that provide habitat for nesting birds and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 23 species of butterflies. The site also includes 'Steel Henge,' a sculpture made from iron ore ingots, referencing the area's industrial heritage.
Yes, Dog Kennel Pond is known for its peaceful environment, perfect for a quiet walk. Centenary Riverside also offers a tranquil setting for nature walks and birdwatching, providing a natural escape within an urban setting.
Visitors appreciate the diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation, from watersports and cycling at Rother Valley Country Park to the peaceful walks and wildlife spotting at Centenary Riverside. The blend of natural beauty and recreational facilities, often on regenerated industrial land, is a key draw, as are the family-friendly amenities and well-maintained paths.


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