Top 6 Lakes around Walton Upon Trent

For a great family day out, consider Conkers Waterside, which offers an adventure playground, cafes, and outdoor walks within the National Forest. Albert Village Lake, part of the Conkers circuit, is another excellent choice with scenic paths. Branston Water Park – The Gravs also provides a designated walking circuit suitable for families. Additionally, Moira Furnace and Canal, though not a lake, features a children's play area and accessible footpaths.

Yes, many lakes offer excellent walking opportunities. Conkers Waterside is integrated with several National Forest trails. Albert Village Lake has a mix of path, bridleway, and tarmac as part of the Conkers circuit. Branston Water Park – The Gravs features a designated one-way circuit. Westport Lake, a bit further afield, boasts a one-mile, level footpath perfect for walks. You can find more hiking options in the area by visiting the Hiking around Walton Upon Trent guide.

Smeaton's Lakes, located very close to Walton-on-Trent, is a prime destination for fishing. It offers multiple lakes like Reed Lake, Burrows Lake, and Binghams Lake, known for a variety of fish including Bream, Roach, Perch, Rudd, Tench, and Carp. There are also 7 dedicated pegs for river fishing along the River Trent, popular for Barbel and Chub. Remember, an Environment Agency Rod Licence is required, and only barbless hooks are permitted.

Westport Lake, managed by Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, is a significant site for overwintering birds and features a conservation area home to kingfishers and dragonflies. Melbourne Lake (Melbourne Pool) is another historic body of water known for its variety of bird species. Branston Water Park – The Gravs is designated as a natural monument, offering a peaceful environment for observing local wildlife.

Westport Lake offers a one-mile, level footpath around its perimeter, making it suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Moira Furnace and Canal, while not a lake, also provides accessible footpaths along the canal. Many of the paths around lakes like Albert Village Lake are a mix of tarmac and bridleway, which can be manageable.

Conkers Waterside has cafes on-site. Westport Lake features a visitor centre and café. Sunset View at Barton Marina offers restaurants and a pub. Fradley Junction, where two canals meet, also has a café and a pub overlooking the water. Melbourne Lake is conveniently close to local shops and cafes in Melbourne.

Many of the lake areas are dog-friendly, especially those with extensive walking trails. Westport Lake is popular for dog walking due to its level footpath. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding dogs, such as leash requirements, especially in conservation areas or near wildlife habitats.

Beyond walking and fishing, the area offers various cycling opportunities. You can explore mountain biking trails like the Hicks Lodge Blue Trail. For road cycling, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Walton Upon Trent guide, and for general cycling, refer to the Cycling around Walton Upon Trent guide.

Moira Furnace and Canal is a notable historical site featuring a canal, visitor's centre, and museum. Melbourne Lake is a historic 20-acre body of water. Branston Water Park – The Gravs is designated as a natural monument, adding to its unique character.

The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for general walks, family outings, and enjoying the greenery. Winter offers unique opportunities, such as pike fishing at Smeaton's Lakes. For birdwatching, Westport Lake is particularly important for overwintering birds, making the colder months a good time to visit for that specific activity.

Staunton Harold Reservoir is known for its scenic views and is a good spot for picnics or watching sunsets, often with sailboats on the water. Sunset View at Barton Marina is, as its name suggests, an excellent viewpoint, especially in the evening. Many of the trails around lakes like Albert Village Lake also feature benches for a relaxing stop.

While popular spots like Conkers can get busy, exploring some of the smaller or less-advertised areas might offer a quieter experience. Melbourne Lake is a peaceful spot with a variety of bird species. Smeaton's Lakes, with its 90 acres of parkland, offers ample space, especially if you venture beyond the main fishing areas. Visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays can also help avoid crowds at any location.