Top 9 Lakes around Altham
Best lakes around Altham offer a variety of natural and man-made water bodies within a landscape shaped by hills and historical industry. The region features several reservoirs, many of which were constructed to supply water to local communities. These areas provide opportunities for outdoor activities, often with trails that incorporate both the water features and surrounding terrain. The lakes are integrated into a landscape that includes cloughs and hills, such as Pendle Hill.
Best lakes around Altham
- The most popular lakes is Lower Ogden Reservoir, a man-made lake that was built in the early 1900s to supply water to the surrounding area. The track to the north can be linked with footpaths to create routes around the reservoir or extend to other nearby water bodies.
- Another must-see spot is Clowbridge Reservoir, a man-made lake with a 9.5-km circular trail. This is a popular route for birding, fishing, and hiking, and it also features an orienteering course.
- Visitors also love Ogden Reservoirs, a series of man-made lakes where water runs off Pendle Hill. The trails around these reservoirs are frequently explored by those on the way up Pendle Hill.
- Altham is known for man-made reservoirs and former quarry lakes. Visitors can find routes ranging from family-friendly walks to more challenging trails around these water features.
- The lakes around Altham are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 40 upvotes and 30 photos shared.
Last updated: June 20, 2026
Clowbridge Reservoir
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Lower Ogden Reservoir
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Jamestone Quarry
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Nearby Troy Quarry is popular with rock climbers and has even featured in the television show Peaky Blinders.
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Walverden Reservoir
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Churn Clough Reservoir
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Tips from the Community
Get to know this 9.5-km circular trail near Burnley, Lancashire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 38 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, fishing, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
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Amazing reservoir and amazing to see the reflection of the trees and hills in the water on a quiet day.
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These days a nature reserve and popular walking spot, Walverden Reservoir was built to supply water to the town of Nelson. Work was completed in 1869, damming the flow of Walverden Water. As Nelson's demands grew, a new reservoir was constructed at Coldwell in 1884 and again in 1935.
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Churn Clough Reservoir, constructed in the late 19th century and expanded during the 1920s, serves as a popular fishing destination. Encircling the reservoir, a well-maintained footpath offers a pleasant route for leisurely walks and exploration of the surrounding woodland.
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Lower Ogden Reservoir was built in the early 1900's to supply water to the surrounding area. The track to the north can be linked with footpaths to the south so that you can run around the reservoir from Barley. You can also extend the run and take in Upper Ogden Reservoir or use this as the start or finishing section for a brilliant loop of Pendle Hill.
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Clowbridge Reservoir has some great walking trails around the lake plus an orienteering course. It's home to a sailing club and angling association so there tends to be things going on as well as the wildlife.
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Lower Ogden Reservoir was built in the early 1900's to supply water to the surrounding area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes to visit around Altham?
Among the most popular lakes are Lower Ogden Reservoir, known for its scenic reflections and connection to Pendle Hill routes, and Clowbridge Reservoir, which offers a 9.5-km circular trail popular for birding and hiking. The Ogden Reservoirs, fed by water from Pendle Hill, are also frequently explored.
Are there easy walking routes around the lakes near Altham?
Yes, many of the lakes, particularly the reservoirs, offer relatively easy walking paths. For example, the track around Lower Ogden Reservoir can be linked with other footpaths for accessible routes. The trails around the Ogden Reservoirs are also generally delightful and suitable for walks.
Can I find circular walking routes around the lakes near Altham?
Absolutely. Clowbridge Reservoir features a popular 9.5-km circular trail. Many other reservoirs in the region also have paths that allow for circular walks, often connecting to wider trail networks.
How long does it take to walk around the lakes near Altham?
Walking times vary depending on the lake and your pace. For instance, the circular trail around Clowbridge Reservoir, which is 9.5 km, typically takes an average of 2 hours and 38 minutes to complete.
Are the lakes around Altham suitable for families?
Yes, many lakes are family-friendly. Lower Ogden Reservoir and the Ogden Reservoirs are noted as family-friendly, offering trails that are enjoyable for all ages. The region generally provides routes ranging from easy family walks to more challenging trails.
Are dogs allowed on trails around the Altham lakes?
Dog policies can vary by specific location. For example, while you can walk around Clowbridge Reservoir, dogs are not allowed on its immediate pathway. It's always best to check local signage or specific highlight details for each lake you plan to visit.
Can I go wild swimming in the lakes near Altham?
Wild swimming is generally discouraged and can be dangerous in many of the region's lakes, especially former quarry lakes. Jamestone Quarry, for instance, is strictly out of bounds and dangerous for swimming, despite its impressive appearance. Always prioritize safety and adhere to local regulations.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Altham?
Beyond walking and hiking, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as those detailed in the Running Trails around Altham guide. There are also options for cycling and gravel biking, with routes like the 'Trail 8, Forest of Bowland' or 'Cant Clough Reservoir – Hurstwood Reservoir loop' available in the Gravel biking around Altham guide and Cycling around Altham guide.
What is the history behind the lakes around Altham?
Many of the lakes around Altham are man-made reservoirs, constructed to supply water to local communities, reflecting the region's industrial heritage. For example, Lower Ogden Reservoir was built in the early 1900s for this purpose. Sites like Jamestone Quarry also serve as impressive reminders of the area's rich industrial past.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Altham?
The lakes are generally beautiful to visit year-round. While popular during warmer months for hiking and birding, the trails remain open and offer different scenic experiences in quieter times, including winter. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
Are there any less-known or 'hidden gem' lakes near Altham?
While the main reservoirs like Ogden and Clowbridge are well-known, exploring the wider network of footpaths can lead you to smaller, less-frequented water bodies and cloughs that offer a sense of discovery. The landscape, shaped by hills and historical industry, often reveals quieter spots beyond the most popular highlights.
Most popular attractions around Altham
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