Top 20 Lakes in Staffordshire
Best lakes in Staffordshire offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. This region features a variety of lakes and reservoirs, from historic waterways to significant nature reserves. These aquatic destinations provide settings for outdoor activities and wildlife observation. Staffordshire's lakes contribute to its natural heritage and provide areas for exploration.
Best lakes in Staffordshire
- The most popular lakes is Rudyard Lake, a viewpoint that is a reservoir constructed in the 18th century. It is a center for recreation with activities on and around the lake.
- Another must-see spot is Fairoak Pools, a lake. Visitors can find a peaceful spot to rest and enjoy the water.
- Visitors also love Tittesworth Water Visitor Centre, a facilities highlight located at Tittesworth Water. It offers amenities and serves as a starting point for exploring the lake.
- Staffordshire is known for reservoirs, natural lakes, and nature reserves. These provide a variety of environments for walking, watersports, and wildlife spotting.
- The lakes in Staffordshire are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 350 upvotes and over 100 photos shared.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Doxey Pool
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase
Highlight • MTB Park
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Rudyard Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
In 1863, two visitors were so taken with its beauty that they named their son after the lake. The son was Rudyard Kipling, the famous author who went on to write the Jungle Book and the Man Who Would be King.
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Dimmingsdale Mill Pond
Highlight • Structure
Lead smelting mill described as new in 1741 and converted to corn grinding in 1784. Single high breast water wheel and three pairs of stones.
The Alton Mill, situated at the mouth of Dimmingsdale, is still known at the Smelting Mill even though it had longers use as a corn mill. In 1741 Geroge Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, leased out a 'newly erected building for the smelthing of lead commonly called a smelting mill, refinery and slag hearth...' at Alton Common. In 1760 lead was still being smelted and the site had a smiths shop, two houses, a barn, nine acres and a pool. The will of Edward Coyney, 1772, mentions his share in the mill along with his share in the mines at Ecton, which is the most likely source for the lead being produced at Dimmingsdale.
Source: Churnet Valley Guide
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Fairoak Pools
Highlight • Lake
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Minster Pool
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Leek Tunnel Pool
Highlight • Bridge
Little tunnel through a sharp little hill.
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RSPB Middleton Lakes Nature Reserve
Highlight • Forest
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Tittesworth Water Visitor Centre
Highlight • Rest Area
visittittesworth.co.uk
Site open everyday, apart from Christmas Day!
April - September:
10.00am - 6.00pm
October:
10.00am - 5.00pm
November - January:
10.00am - 4.00pm
February - March:
10.00am – 5.00pm
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Tittesworth Reservoir
Highlight • Trail
Owned by Severn Trent Water.
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Popular around Staffordshire
Peak District National Park – A Walk in the Parks
Staffordshire Way — Hike gritstone, woods, heath and scarps
Heart of England Way — A historic hike filled with wildlife and beauty
Monarch's Way: Part 1 — Conquer the longest inland trail in England
West Midlands Cycle Route – Where history comes alive
Family friendly UK trails for little explorers
Industrial heartlands on NCN Route 5 – Reading to North Wales
Pedal through time – Britain’s landscapes & history by bike
Trail magic in the Midlands — Cannock Chase and Stile Cop MTB
Spectacular rides in Central England – e-bike trials by Halfords
Other adventures in Staffordshire
Tips from the Community
a short sharp climb up over the top and a pleasant run down the other side towards leek
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According to local legend, the pool is bottomless, and home to a sinister mermaid referred to as Jenny Greenteeth. The Doxey Pool mermaid waits to lure unsuspecting waters into her bottomless pool, to their deaths.
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The source of the river is located over 1,000 feet (300 m) above sea level in the Staffordshire moorlands, near the gritstone escarpment of the Roaches. After flowing downhill for a few miles it reaches Tittesworth Reservoir, a major supplier of fresh water to the Potteries and Leek. After it leaves the dam at Tittesworth, it flows into the ancient market town of Leek, where it was used to aid the manufacture of dyes that were used in the town's textile and silk industries.
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may need to take detours due to festival dismantal or no access to other routes minor issue but amazing walk
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A pretty little spot where the River Churnet runs into Tittesworth Reservoir.
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Excellent savoury and sweet options at decent prices! A tap for drinking water and bike storage outside, and plenty of place for seating inside and out.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Staffordshire are best for walking and hiking?
Staffordshire offers numerous lakes with excellent walking opportunities. For scenic trails, consider Rudyard Lake, which features a five-mile path around its perimeter. Tittesworth Water also provides peaceful walking trails of 1.5 miles and 5 miles, with the longer route offering stunning views of The Roaches. Chasewater Country Park is another great option for walking and cycling, with 360 hectares to explore. For more challenging routes, you can explore various waterfall hikes or mountain hikes in the wider Staffordshire region.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Staffordshire with amenities?
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Tittesworth Water Visitor Centre offers amenities like a cafe and serves as a starting point for exploring the lake. Westport Lake in Stoke-on-Trent is also very family-friendly, featuring a lakeside cafe, well-maintained footpaths, and various activities during school holidays. Chasewater Country Park provides play areas, picnic spots, and a heritage steam railway alongside its watersports.
Which lakes are best for watersports in Staffordshire?
Chasewater Country Park is a prime destination for watersports, offering sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, water skiing, and water zorbing on Chasewater Reservoir. Rudyard Lake is also a popular spot for fishing, boating, canoeing, and sailing.
Where can I go for wildlife spotting and birdwatching around Staffordshire's lakes?
Staffordshire's lakes are rich in wildlife. Aqualate Mere, the largest natural lake in the English Midlands, is an internationally important wetland reserve known for its diverse fish populations, wintering and breeding wildfowl, and a large heronry. Blithfield Reservoir is a haven for birds and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Rudyard Lake and Tittesworth Water also offer excellent birdwatching opportunities, with Tittesworth having two hides, one of which is wheelchair-friendly. RSPB Middleton Lakes Nature Reserve is another fantastic location, featuring wetlands, meadows, and woodlands, supporting a wide range of bird species, otters, and dragonflies.
Are there any historical lakes or reservoirs in Staffordshire?
Yes, Rudyard Lake has significant historical importance. Built in 1797 to feed the Caldon Canal, it's also famously where Rudyard Kipling's parents met, leading to the author being named after the lake. Chasewater Reservoir also features a heritage steam railway, adding to its historical charm.
What are the best lakes for a peaceful and tranquil experience?
For a peaceful retreat, Blithfield Reservoir is highly recommended. Set in the rolling hills of Blithe Valley, it offers serene views and tranquil walks amidst picturesque landscapes. Aqualate Mere, as a National Nature Reserve, also provides a quiet environment for nature observation. Knypersley Reservoir is another notable mention for its tranquility and diverse bird species.
Are there any lakes in Staffordshire with cafes or visitor centres?
Yes, Tittesworth Water Visitor Centre has a cafe offering coffee, cake, and more substantial food. Westport Lake features a lakeside cafe, making it convenient for refreshments during your visit. Chasewater Country Park also includes a visitor center.
What is the best time of year to visit Staffordshire lakes?
The best time to visit Staffordshire lakes generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking, watersports, and enjoying the vibrant flora and fauna. Autumn provides beautiful scenery with changing leaf colors, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, especially for birdwatching as many lakes are important overwintering sites for water birds.
Can I find wheelchair-accessible paths around Staffordshire lakes?
While specific details for all lakes vary, Tittesworth Water has bird hides that are wheelchair-friendly, indicating some accessible infrastructure. Westport Lake also provides well-maintained footpaths, which are generally suitable for leisurely strolls and may offer accessible sections. It's advisable to check specific site information for detailed accessibility routes.
What kind of cycling opportunities are there near Staffordshire's lakes?
Chasewater Country Park is excellent for cycling, with dedicated paths around the reservoir. For mountain biking enthusiasts, the Monkey Trail at Cannock Chase, which is near some of the region's lakes, offers challenging trails. Additionally, you can find various road cycling routes throughout Staffordshire that may pass by or near several lakes.
Are dogs allowed at the lakes in Staffordshire?
Many lakes in Staffordshire are dog-friendly, though specific rules may apply regarding leashes or restricted areas, particularly in nature reserves. Rudyard Lake and Tittesworth Reservoir are known to be dog-friendly. RSPB Middleton Lakes Nature Reserve also welcomes dogs on leads. Always check local signage for the most current regulations.
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