Top 8 Lakes around Simonstone

The area around Simonstone features several notable reservoirs. Key locations include the Lower Ogden Reservoir, known for its serene reflections, and Clowbridge Reservoir, which offers walking trails and water sports. The Ogden Reservoirs, a series of man-made lakes near Pendle Hill, are also popular. Further afield, the Roddlesworth Reservoirs (Upper, Lower, and Rake Brook) near Blackburn with Darwen provide extensive woodland walks.

Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly walking experiences. Lower Ogden Reservoir and the Ogden Reservoirs are both noted as family-friendly. The Roddlesworth Reservoirs also feature extensive networks of well-laid paths and woodland trails that are generally considered easy and suitable for families.

Many areas around the lakes are dog-friendly, particularly the woodland trails at Roddlesworth Reservoirs, where dogs are welcome but should be kept on leads. However, it's important to note that dogs are not allowed on the pathway directly around Clowbridge Reservoir.

You'll find picturesque natural beauty, with dense mature deciduous woodlands surrounding many of the reservoirs, such as Roddlesworth Woods. These woods offer vibrant greenery in summer, stunning autumnal colors, and bluebells in springtime. You can also observe interesting fungi, various bird species, and squirrels. The serene water often provides beautiful reflections of the surrounding trees and hills, especially at Lower Ogden Reservoir.

The lakes and surrounding areas are excellent for various outdoor activities. Walking and hiking are very popular, with well-maintained trails around most reservoirs. Clowbridge Reservoir also hosts a sailing club and angling association. For more structured routes, you can explore guides for easy hikes, gravel biking, and road cycling routes in the Simonstone area.

Yes, many of the lakes are man-made reservoirs with significant historical importance. The Roddlesworth Reservoirs, for instance, were constructed in the 1850s by Thomas Hawksley for Liverpool Corporation Waterworks. Lower Ogden Reservoir was built in the early 1900s, and Walverden Reservoir was completed in 1869 to supply water to Nelson.

Parking is generally available at popular access points. For the Roddlesworth Reservoirs, a common starting point with parking is near the Hare & Hounds pub in Abbey Village. Specific parking details for other reservoirs like Ogden or Clowbridge are usually found at their main entrances or trailheads.

The lakes offer beauty throughout the year. Spring is enchanting with bluebells in the woodlands, while summer provides lush greenery. Autumn is particularly stunning with vibrant foliage. Even in winter, the trails offer peaceful walks, though some sections can be muddy after rain.

Yes, for the Roddlesworth Reservoirs, the Hare & Hounds pub in Abbey Village is a convenient option for refreshments near a common parking area. For other lakes, local villages and towns in the wider Simonstone area often have pubs and cafes where visitors can stop.

Walverden Reservoir, built in 1869, has transformed from a water supply source into a nature reserve and a popular spot for easy walks. It offers a tranquil environment for visitors to enjoy nature.

The Ogden Reservoirs offer a series of man-made lakes with established trails and viewpoints. These trails are a delight for walkers and are often explored by those visiting the nearby Pendle Hill. The area also features three plantations, including Fell Wood, with spruces, pines, and larches.