Lakes around Aldwark, a village in North Yorkshire, England, primarily consist of the River Ure and various man-made water features. The River Ure, a significant natural feature, offers settings for water-based activities and scenic views. Additionally, the area includes dedicated fishing lakes and water hazards integrated into local golf courses. These water bodies contribute to recreational opportunities and the natural landscape of the region.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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"Spring has arrived – and the sun has melted the ice on the mill pond. Its rays reach to the bottom of the pond – and tickle awake the little water sprite, who has been hibernating with his mermaid parents. And what's the first thing a curious little water sprite does? Spring cleaning with his mother? Repairing the broken roof of the water sprite's house? Wrong! Of course, the little water sprite's first priority is to meet his old friend, Cyprinus the carp... The little water sprite isn't quite as cheeky here as in the 1955 original – but Daniel Napp's little spring story has been enchantingly illustrated. A magical, endearing, and ageless reading experience for children ages 4 and up." The Stiftung Lesen (Reading Foundation) reviews a four-volume sequel to the popular "The Little Water Sprite" by Otfried Preußler (1923 to 2013), which guides children through the seasons in this children's book series.
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Planning for the reservoir started in the 1960s and construction started in 1979. In 1984, there was a partial collapse of the dam before it was filled. The dam was removed before the construction of a new dam began in 1989. The finished reservoir was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1992.
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Bentley Brook runs through Lumsdale Valley into the River Derwent. The Upper Pond was constructed in the 1780s by Watts, Lowe and Co to supply water for their cotton mill. It has silted up since the dam wall broke in 1947 and is now a designated nature reserve. The Middle Pond was also from the 1780s and was restored in 2014 (funded by the Heritage Lottery) after being dry and overgrown. The Lower Pond was originally a quarry but was converted into a reservoir in 1850.
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The Mill Pond (aka Lower Pond) was originally a quarry but was converted into a reservoir in 1850 to supply a continuous flow of water to power machinery.
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Carsington Water is the ninth largest reservoir in England. When full it can hold 7,800 million gallons of water. The reservoir has good quality tracks around it to enjoy the good views and wildlife.
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The strong winds are very powerful across the dam wall. Those who cycle with children may want to use the road for the dam wall section on these occasions.
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While Aldwark itself is known for the River Ure and local man-made fisheries, the broader region features several popular water bodies. Among these, Carsington Water is highly regarded for its scenic gravel path, ideal for cycling. Other notable spots include Roadford Lake Dam, a significant man-made reservoir, and Mill Pond, a historic site originally a quarry converted into a reservoir.
Yes, several water bodies offer family-friendly experiences. Carsington Water is noted for its family-friendly cycling paths. Mill Pond, Whitworth Park Pond, and Bentley Brook and Upper Pond are also categorized as family-friendly, offering pleasant natural settings for walks and exploration.
The River Ure, which flows alongside Aldwark, is a hub for water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The Aldwark Scout Activity Centre and Aldwark Manor Estate utilize the river for these activities. For land-based activities, there are numerous hiking and MTB trails nearby. You can explore various routes, including easy hikes like the Minninglow and Roystone Grange Trail, or more challenging MTB trails. Find more details on these activities at the MTB Trails around Aldwark guide, Easy hikes around Aldwark guide, and Hiking around Aldwark guide.
Yes, Aldwark is well-known for its fishing opportunities, particularly at Rising Sun Fisheries. This complex features three man-made lakes designed for various fishing experiences. Lake One is popular for carp fishing, including specimen potential, while Lakes Two and Three are stocked with a variety of fish such as carp, ide, crucians, roach, rudd, tench, chub, and perch. Night fishing is also available on Lake One by prior booking.
Wild swimming is possible at the Aldwark Bridge Free-landing on the River Ure. This provides a natural setting for those looking to enjoy open water swimming in the area.
The area boasts several interesting historical and man-made features. The historic Aldwark Bridge, a Grade II listed structure, spans the River Ure. Mill Pond, originally a quarry, was converted into a reservoir in 1850 to power machinery. Roadford Lake Dam is another significant man-made structure, with its construction starting in the late 20th century and opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1992. Additionally, Whitworth Park Pond is part of a park steeped in Victorian industrial history.
Yes, the Aldwark Manor Golf Club features several strategically placed water hazards that enhance the game and the scenic beauty of the course. The course winds alongside the River Ure, and recent investments have added more water features, including a large pond on the 10th hole and the River Ure itself running along the 13th hole. The 18th hole is a challenging par 3 that plays over water.
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquil settings and the variety of activities available. For instance, the path around Carsington Water is loved for its lovely views. The River Ure offers a peaceful setting for relaxation and water sports. The fishing lakes provide a relaxing atmosphere for anglers, and the golf course combines challenge with scenic beauty.
Yes, there are several easy walking routes. The River Ure's banks offer tranquil riverside strolls. For more structured routes, you can find easy hikes such as the Minninglow and Roystone Grange Trail, or the Harboro Rocks Trig Point loop. These are detailed in the Easy hikes around Aldwark guide.
Yes, Aldwark Manor Estate is directly connected to the River Ure. It offers paddleboarding and boat mooring facilities, and has introduced 'Babs,' a riverside retreat that serves as a hub for watersports and provides a peaceful setting with views of the river.
The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports on the River Ure, cycling around places like Carsington Water, and enjoying the general scenery. Anglers might find different seasons more productive for specific fish at Rising Sun Fisheries. For walking, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful natural colors, though winter walks can also be scenic.
Yes, if you're looking for an easier cycling experience around Carsington Water, it's recommended to cycle anticlockwise. This way, you tackle the harder parts of the route in the first half, leaving an easier finish when you might have less energy.


Still not found your perfect lake around Aldwark? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.