Top 9 Lakes around Derby

For a wide range of outdoor activities, Carsington Water is a prominent destination, offering watersports and equipment hire. Derwent Reservoir is also activity-packed, known for trout fishing, walking trails, and a play park. For peaceful walks amidst nature, Errwood Reservoir and Fernilee Reservoir in the Goyt Valley are excellent choices.

Yes, several lakes are great for families. Markeaton Park Lake in Derby is convenient and offers boating. Derwent Reservoir has a play park and visitor centre. The Linacre Reservoirs, with their charming woods and mostly flat paths, are considered lovely for families.

Many lakes offer excellent walking opportunities. Ladybower Reservoir is adored by cyclists and walkers for its views, especially the path along the dam. Errwood Reservoir and Fernilee Reservoir provide long, peaceful country walks, with a 4-mile circular walk around Fernilee and a 5-mile circular walk around Errwood. Allestree Park Lake also offers beautiful settings for walks within the park.

Derby and its surroundings offer several prime fishing spots. Markeaton Park Lake is a popular destination for carp, tench, bream, roach, and pike. Derwent Reservoir is well-known for trout fishing, with one-day permits available. For dedicated anglers, Beehive Woodland Lakes are highly recommended, boasting three well-stocked lakes with carp up to 26 lbs. The Pride of Derby Angling Association also manages several waters known for carp fishing, with some holding carp up to 40 lbs.

Yes, Ladybower Reservoir has a rich history; it was constructed between 1935 and 1943, and two villages were flooded to create it. Their remains can occasionally be seen when water levels recede, offering a unique historical perspective.

Mapperley Reservoir is particularly noted for wildlife spotting and birdwatching, with species like coot, moorhen, mallard, kingfisher, chiffchaffs, willow warblers, blackcaps, robins, and chaffinches. Its tranquil setting surrounded by woodlands makes it ideal for nature observation.

At Ladybower Reservoir, look for its distinctive 'plughole' overflows, which are a popular subject for photographers. The Linacre Reservoirs are known for their charming woods and distinctive trunk carvings, adding a unique artistic touch to the natural landscape.

Lakes within Derby city parks like Markeaton Park Lake and Allestree Park Lake are generally more accessible by public transport and have nearby parking. For wider Derbyshire lakes, facilities vary, but popular spots like Derwent Reservoir and Carsington Water are well-equipped with parking and visitor amenities.

Beyond visiting the lakes themselves, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including those suitable for jogging around Derby. There are also many easy hikes and gravel biking routes that explore the beautiful Derbyshire countryside.

Yes, Derwent Reservoir is recognized as a Dark Sky-friendly site, making it an excellent location for stargazing and enjoying the night sky away from light pollution.

Derwent Reservoir features a café and a visitor centre, providing amenities for a comfortable day out. Carsington Water also has extensive facilities, including a water park. Near Mapperley Reservoir, a visitor centre is available in the nearby Shipley Country Park.

Yes, Errwood Reservoir and Fernilee Reservoir, located in the Goyt Valley, can be combined for a longer outing. A 4-mile circular walk is available around Fernilee Reservoir, and Errwood Reservoir offers a 5-mile circular walk, allowing for extended exploration of the area's lush forest and woodland scenery.