Top 5 Lakes around Narborough
Best lakes around Narborough offer diverse natural and recreational opportunities within Leicestershire. The region features a mix of natural and man-made water bodies, providing varied landscapes for visitors. These lakes are often surrounded by natural habitats, supporting local wildlife and offering scenic views. The area's geography includes valleys and former quarries, contributing to the unique character of its aquatic environments.
Best lakes around Narborough
- The most popular lakes is Thornton Reservoir, a lake that is nestled in a picturesque…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Stoney Cove National Dive Centre
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Groby Pool
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Thornton Reservoir
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Path Beside the Pond
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Optimus Point Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
This nature reserve was created primarily for Great Crested Newts. The site has several ponds as well as areas of meadow grassland and is surrounded by mature hedges and trees bordering onto the former Western Golf Course along its eastern side.
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The cafe at the garden centre is perfect for a mid ride cob
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The building across the water, Pool House, is a Grade II listed building.
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The first recorded reference to Groby Pool was in 1295, and there is evidence of a mill associated with Groby Pool from that time until the 1900s. The last was a saw mill in Sheet Hedges Wood.
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Thornton Reservoir is a small area of water situated on the edge of the National Forest in a peaceful and picturesque location. It offers a network of trails and footpaths around the reservoir and through the neighbouring woodland areas.
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Groby Pool is believed to be the largest natural expanse of open water in Leicestershire, covering 38 acres. The unusual combination of habitats includes woodland, wet and dry grassland, marsh, reed swamp and open water, supporting a wide range of water fowl and animals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Narborough offer easy walking trails?
For easy walks, Thornton Reservoir is an excellent choice. It features a traffic-free trail around its perimeter, perfect for a pleasant stroll. Additionally, Groby Pool offers paths through woodland and grassland, suitable for relaxed walks.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths around the lakes?
Yes, Thornton Reservoir is noted for its wheelchair-accessible paths. The paved trail around the reservoir makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Where can I go fishing near Narborough?
Narborough Fisheries offers a comprehensive fishing experience with five distinct lakes. For serious carp anglers, Millers Lake is ideal for large specimen fish. Foresters Lake is great for mixed coarse fishing, while Ashford Lake is heavily stocked for match fishing. Fly fishing enthusiasts can visit Willow Lake for 'put and take' trout fishing or Meadow Lake for challenging catch-and-release trout fishing with large, 'wise' fish.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes around Narborough are rich in wildlife. Thornton Reservoir is home to various mammals, birds, butterflies, and dragonflies. Groby Pool supports a wide range of waterfowl and animals due to its diverse habitats including woodland, marsh, and reed swamp. Optimus Point Nature Reserve was specifically created for Great Crested Newts and features several ponds and meadow grassland.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities available?
Yes, Groby Pool and Optimus Point Nature Reserve are both categorized as family-friendly. They offer natural settings for walks and wildlife observation, suitable for all ages.
Can I go diving at any of the lakes?
Absolutely! Stoney Cove National Dive Centre is a large flooded quarry that hosts the UK National Dive Centre. It offers an underwater adventure park for divers and even has a heated pool for dive training.
Are there places to eat or drink near the lakes?
Yes, Stoney Cove National Dive Centre has a pub/cafe on site, making it a convenient spot to take a break and grab refreshments.
What historical significance do the lakes have?
Groby Pool has a rich history, with the first recorded reference dating back to 1295. There's also evidence of a mill associated with the pool from that time until the 1900s. The nearby Pool House is a Grade II listed building.
What kind of cycling routes are available near the lakes?
There are various cycling opportunities around Narborough. You can find numerous road cycling routes, gravel biking trails, and MTB trails. For detailed routes and guides, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Narborough, Gravel biking around Narborough, and MTB Trails around Narborough guides.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Narborough?
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The traffic-free trails at places like Thornton Reservoir are popular for relaxing walks, while the unique diving experience at Stoney Cove National Dive Centre draws many. The rich wildlife and varied habitats at Groby Pool are also highly valued by the community.
Are there any nature reserves focused on specific wildlife near the lakes?
Yes, Optimus Point Nature Reserve was primarily established to protect Great Crested Newts. It features several ponds and areas of meadow grassland, providing a crucial habitat for these amphibians.
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