Best lakes around Heversham are found in its surrounding region, as the charming village in South Cumbria offers easy access to the Lake District National Park. This area is known for its diverse natural landscapes, including several notable lakes that are popular for outdoor activities. The region's geography features a mix of fells, valleys, and extensive waterways. Visitors can explore a variety of lake environments, from large, well-known bodies of water to smaller, more secluded tarns.
Last updated: June 16, 2026
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A visit to the reserve is highly recommended. However, there is now an entry fee: £5 for cyclists.
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It is well worth visiting the castle and gardens. I was particularly impressed by the rock garden.
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From here you have a really beautiful view of Lake Windermere. The little detour is worth it.
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I think Kenny's above tip refers to the Hawes Water in the Lake District.
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Hawes Water, sometimes called Hawes Tarn on the Gait Barrows National Nature Reserve is one of only two natural fresh-water lakes in Lancashire, along with Marton Mere. Unlike its big namesake in the Lake District it is a small lake but quite deep at 30 metres. Great centre for both birdlife and insects.
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Sizergh as a number of different gardens including a mirror lake, colourful herbaceous border, working kitchen garden, apple orchard and limestone rock garden.
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Hawes water, positioned as the easternmost lake within the Lake District, serves a crucial role as a reservoir. In 1940, the eastern side of the lake was dammed, resulting in the flooding of Mardale valley and the submersion of the village of Mardale. During periods of drought, the submerged village resurfaces, a highly anticipated event cherished by both locals and visitors.
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While Heversham itself doesn't host large lakes, it's an excellent base for exploring the Lake District. Popular choices include Windermere, known for its boating and water sports, and Coniston Water, famous for its natural beauty and watersports. Other highly regarded lakes are Derwentwater near Keswick and the stunning Ullswater, often considered the most beautiful of the Lake District lakes.
Yes, you can visit Sizergh Castle and Gardens, a National Trust property featuring a mirror lake, herbaceous borders, and a working kitchen garden. The medieval fortified manor house itself is rich in history, showcasing collections from 30 generations of the Strickland family.
The region is rich in wildlife. At Leighton Moss Nature Reserve, a reservoir created for saltmarsh habitats, you might spot bitterns, red deer, and Greylag geese among the reed beds. Hawes Water, a reservoir in the Lake District, is also known for its birdlife and insects.
Many lakes offer family-friendly options. Windermere is great for boat trips and the Brockhole Lake District Visitors Centre. Coniston Water and Derwentwater also provide opportunities for watersports and easy walks suitable for families. Sizergh Castle and Gardens is also listed as family-friendly, offering gardens and a castle to explore.
There are numerous walking opportunities. For easy walks, consider routes like 'The Avenue at Levens Park – Levens Deer Park loop from Hincaster' or 'Dallam Park Deer Park Lane – Milnthorpe Bridge loop from Milnthorpe'. More moderate options include 'Fairy Steps to Haverbrack loop – Arnside and Silverdale'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Heversham guide.
Yes, the area offers various cycling routes. For gravel biking, you can explore routes like 'Sizergh Castle loop from Kendal' or 'Heversham Head loop from Kendal'. More challenging routes, such as 'Old Coach Road via Glenridding and Grasmere from Kendal', are also available. Discover more in the Gravel biking around Heversham guide.
Hawes Water, a reservoir in the Lake District, is known for the submerged village of Mardale. During periods of drought, the remains of this village resurface, offering a unique and often anticipated sight for locals and visitors alike.
For expansive views, visit Estuary and Clifftop Views of Morecambe Bay, which offers incredible vistas across the sands, especially at low tide. High Newton Reservoir also provides elevated positions with beautiful views over the Coniston Fells, the Cartmel Valley, and Morecambe Bay.
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but the best time often depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer warmer weather ideal for watersports and longer walks. Autumn brings stunning foliage, particularly around lakes like Ullswater. Winter can be peaceful and dramatic, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
While Windermere and Coniston can be busy, you might find more tranquility at places like Leighton Moss Nature Reserve, which focuses on birdwatching and nature observation. Exploring smaller tarns or less-trafficked areas around the larger lakes can also offer a more secluded experience.
Visitors frequently appreciate the diverse natural landscapes, from the expansive views of Morecambe Bay to the tranquil waters of the Lake District. The combination of outdoor activities, historical sites like Sizergh Castle, and the opportunity to spot wildlife at places like Leighton Moss Nature Reserve makes the area highly appealing.


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