Best lakes around Wimbolds Trafford are predominantly found within the expansive Delamere Forest, a significant natural area. This region features reclaimed wetland areas, small forest lakes, and ponds, many of which are designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest. The landscape is characterized by woodland and waterside scenery, offering opportunities for walking and observing diverse wildlife. These natural features provide a tranquil escape with varied terrain.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
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Lovely ride through Delamere Forest. You can't go wrong on a mtb or emtb. I entered the forest at New Pale and went round lots of trails to the holiday lodges and came out on Waterloo Lane.
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It does get busy around the visitors' centre and the Gruffalo trail. However, if you ride up Pale Hill and follow the perimeter of the forest, there are plenty of quiet trails to explore. Keep your eyes peeled for single tracks going through the forest, there lots of off-the-beaten-path routes to follow if you look for them.
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Nice spot for a quiet rest as I cycle the country lanes into and out of Chester.
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amazing walk just cant take the path next to the hatch mere nature reserve because it's very deep mud at the moment
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Could become overgrown in summer or muddy if wet. Interest spot to see
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Lovely place for a quick stop...there's always plenty of birdlife on or around the pond. The ducks generally boss the place,so don't mess with them :-)
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Blakemere Moss at Delamere Forest is a reclaimed wetland area. The Moss was originally formed from two kettle holes (water filled hollows formed by a detached mass of glacial ice melted in situ towards the end of the last ice age). Delamere Forest is made up of more than 100 peatland basins and includes several sites of rare 'quaking' bogland, a phenomenon in which sphagnum mosses form a carpet above peaty water that appears to tremble when trodden on. The area was drained from the 1800's, supposedly by prisoners from the Napoleonic Wars and planted with trees, (mainly oak and Scot's Pine) between 1793-1815 to provide timber for shipbuilding. The Forestry Commission planted the moss with pine and western hemlock during the 1940s, which proved uneconomic. In the late 1990's the Commission allowed the area to re-flood again naturally.
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For a significant natural monument and reclaimed wetland, visit Blakemere Moss. Another popular spot is Whitefield, Delamere Forest, which offers many trails and small lakes. For a tranquil nature reserve known for dragonflies and unusual mosses, explore Black Lake Nature Reserve, Delamere Forest.
The lakes around Wimbolds Trafford, particularly within Delamere Forest, are rich in biodiversity. Blakemere Moss is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to rare mosses like Sphagnum pulchrum, diving beetles, and great crested newts. It's also excellent for birdwatching, with sightings of greylags, Canada geese, coots, and mallards. Black Lake Nature Reserve is known for its many species of dragonfly and damselfly.
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Whitefield, Delamere Forest, and Blakemere Moss are both listed as family-friendly. Delamere Forest offers well-maintained footpaths ideal for family walks, and there's even a section of the Go Ape treetop adventure route passing over Blakemere Moss. Christleton Duck Pond is also a lovely, quiet spot for families to enjoy birdlife.
Delamere Forest, where many of the lakes are located, offers numerous walking trails. You can find well-maintained footpaths around Blakemere Moss, including a popular circular trail. Whitefield, Delamere Forest, also features many trails showcasing nature. For more specific routes, you can explore options like the 'Blakemere Moss – Whitefield, Delamere Forest loop' for gravel biking or various running trails listed in the Running Trails around Wimbolds Trafford guide.
Yes, the footpaths and trails within Delamere Forest, including those around lakes like Blakemere Moss, are generally suitable for dog walkers. The area provides ample shade from the trees, making it comfortable for pets. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife.
Beyond walking, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find gravel biking routes, such as the 'Blakemere Moss – Whitefield, Delamere Forest loop', detailed in the Gravel biking around Wimbolds Trafford guide. There are also dedicated running trails, including loops around Christleton Duck Pond, which you can find in the Running Trails around Wimbolds Trafford guide, and mountain biking trails, like the 'Whitegate Station Café – Blakemere Moss loop', available in the MTB Trails around Wimbolds Trafford guide.
Yes, Blakemere Moss has an interesting history. It was originally formed from two kettle holes by melting glacial ice. In the 1800s, the area was drained and planted with trees, reportedly by Napoleonic War prisoners, to provide timber. It was allowed to re-flood naturally in the 1990s, and tree stumps from the previous forestry still protrude from the water, adding to its unique character.
Within Delamere Forest, where many of the lakes are situated, you will find visitor facilities including information centers and cafes. Whitefield, Delamere Forest, specifically mentions a cafe as one of its categories. These amenities provide convenient options for refreshments during your visit.
The lakes and surrounding Delamere Forest offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying vibrant wildflowers and active wildlife, including dragonflies and damselflies at Black Lake Nature Reserve. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter offers tranquil, crisp walks. The well-maintained paths make it accessible in most seasons.
Yes, the Delamere Forest area, particularly around Blakemere Moss, is notable for its peatland basins. It includes several sites of rare 'quaking' bogland, a phenomenon where sphagnum mosses form a trembling carpet over peaty water. Blakemere Moss itself originated from two kettle holes, which are depressions formed by melting glacial ice.
Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquil escape offered by the lakes and surrounding woodland. The mix of waterside and forest scenery, the diverse birdlife at spots like Blakemere Moss, and the well-maintained walking trails are often highlighted. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with nature.
Delamere Forest, home to many of the region's lakes, is undergoing extensive redevelopment to provide easier access for everyone, including new multi-use paths. While specific accessibility details for each lake vary, the general effort to improve access suggests options for various abilities. It's advisable to check specific trail conditions before visiting.


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