Best lakes around Elmesthorpe include Billington Lakes, a notable destination for fishing enthusiasts in Leicestershire. The area offers a variety of water bodies, from well-stocked fishing pools to country park lakes and flooded quarries. These natural features provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking and exploring wildlife. Elmesthorpe's landscape is characterized by its accessible natural settings, making it suitable for various recreational pursuits.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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Nice to visit but no cafe at the Marina, plenty half a mile up the hill in Market Bosworth
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This nature reserve was created primarily for Great Crested Newts. The site has several ponds as well as areas of meadow grassland and is surrounded by mature hedges and trees bordering onto the former Western Golf Course along its eastern side.
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Bosworth Marina is a relatively recent addition to the area, with its development and opening in 2012. The site was originally a location for industrial activities, including a timber fireproofing plant that operated from 1919 to 2002. The marina now provides canal boat berths for tourism, moorings, and short-term occupation, connected to the Ashby-de-la-Zouch Canal.
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Stoney Cove is a large flooded quarry that hosts the UK National Dive Centre. There is a heated pool for dive training, and the bed of the cove is described as an underwater adventure park! Above the surface, there is a pub/cafe and it's also a great spot to catch a glimpse of peregrine falcons/
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head to the new everrads brewery pick up the trail from there good ride canal track bit tight in spots but well worth the ride
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Unique place to visit, lots of diving takes place here, with a pub/cafe. Good place to stop and take a break.
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Beyond the well-known Billington Lakes for fishing, you can explore Market Bosworth Country Park for pleasant strolls and birdwatching, or visit Stoney Cove National Dive Centre for unique underwater exploration. There's also Path Beside the Pond, which is great for cycling.
Yes, there are several walking opportunities. Market Bosworth Country Park offers nice spots for a stroll, and you can extend your walk to the Bosworth Battle site or along the canal to Sutton Wharf. Billington Lakes also has a short, dog-friendly and child-friendly circular walk known as the 'Billington Lakes Bumble'.
Yes, fishing is very popular, especially at Billington Lakes. It is highly regarded by anglers for its well-stocked pools, offering a variety of fish including carp and silver fish. Night fishing is also permitted there, making it a top choice for dedicated anglers.
Many areas are family-friendly. Market Bosworth Country Park is noted as family-friendly, offering easy strolls. The 'Billington Lakes Bumble' walk is also child-friendly. Additionally, Bosworth Marina is another family-friendly spot.
The lakes and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. Market Bosworth Country Park is known for its bird life. At Stoney Cove National Dive Centre, you might catch a glimpse of peregrine falcons. There's also Optimus Point Nature Reserve, which was created primarily for Great Crested Newts and features several ponds and meadow grassland.
Yes, there are options available. Stoney Cove National Dive Centre has a pub/cafe on-site. Near Market Bosworth Country Park, you can find a licensed cafe at Sutton Wharf if you extend your canal walk. While Bosworth Marina itself doesn't have a cafe, there are plenty of options half a mile up the hill in Market Bosworth.
For Market Bosworth Country Park, there is a payable car park available. Billington Lakes also offers reasonable pricing and a well-maintained facility, which typically includes parking for visitors.
Yes, Path Beside the Pond is a trail suitable for cycling, offering views of the water. For more cycling routes in the wider area, you can explore the Cycling around Elmesthorpe guide, which includes routes like the 'Smooth Road for Cycling – Burbage Common Trail loop'.
For longer hikes, you can find routes such as the 'Sapcote Castle loop from Stoney Stanton' (12.7 km) or a 'Hiking loop from Earl Shilton' (8.5 km). These and other options are detailed in the Hiking around Elmesthorpe guide.
Visitors often praise the friendly atmosphere and welcoming staff at places like Billington Lakes. The picturesque surroundings, well-maintained facilities, and diverse opportunities for activities like fishing, walking, and wildlife observation are also highly appreciated by the community.
While specific public transport details for each lake can vary, Elmesthorpe village itself has public transport connections. It's advisable to check local bus routes or train services to nearby towns like Market Bosworth or Stoney Stanton, and then plan your final leg to the specific lake.
The lakes offer pleasant experiences year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the picturesque surroundings and outdoor activities like walking and fishing. Autumn brings beautiful seasonal changes, and even winter walks can be enjoyable, especially around well-maintained areas like Billington Lakes.
Yes, Optimus Point Nature Reserve is a notable example. It was specifically created to protect Great Crested Newts and features several ponds and areas of meadow grassland, providing a habitat for various species.


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