Top 17 Lakes around Osgathorpe
Best lakes around Osgathorpe are found in the surrounding Leicestershire area, offering diverse natural attractions. The region features several notable lakes and reservoirs, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife observation. These water bodies contribute to the area's natural landscape, which includes woodlands, meadows, and historic sites. The varied terrain makes it suitable for walking and exploring the local environment.
Best lakes around Osgathorpe
- The most popular lakes is Deer Park at Calke Abbey, a natural area featuring a…
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Deer Park at Calke Abbey
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Staunton Harold Reservoir
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Melbourne Pool
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Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park
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Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
A great place for a simple circuit of the lake or to hook up to other nearby walks. Owned by the forestry commission, the car parks are no longer free . Card or payment by app only (cash not accepted).
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Sence Valley Forest Park is a significant area of woodland planting which has transformed the former opencast coal mining site, in north-west Leicestershire, into a haven for wildlife and visitors. The coal mine closed in 1996 and only two years later 98,000 Corsican pine, larch and poplars trees were planted. Another 100 acres of land was bought in 2018 and this was planted with a range of coniferous and broadleaved trees, as a sustainable forest for the future.
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The main path through the nature reserve (i.e. the one marked on komoot) takes you nowhere near the ponds or bird hide. You have to take the path off to the right near the Severn Trent Water station.
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The Cross Britain Way is a long-distance route that goes 279 miles (450 km) from Barmouth on the West Wales coast to Boston on the East coast of England. The route was initiated to span the UK to highlight the lesser-known areas of our picturesque hidden countryside. Here you are at Staunton Harold Reservoir, which is a fair size at 210 acres (85 hectares). Here on the north-west shore, you have fine views out over the water and the surrounding woodland. There is an abundance of birdlife to look at here too. Not far away is the National Trust Cafe for Staunton Harold with access to toilets.
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Great walks and biking awesome views parking cafe
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Although its extent in the medieval period is not known, Melbourne Pool was certainly large by the early 17th century, as shown on a map of that time. Tradition says that stone for Melbourne Castle was quarried here before the area was flooded. A map of 1787 shows the Pool extending further to the west than it does now. It provided water to Melbourne Mill. The level of the water was raised by two feet at the beginning of the 18th century, in order to work the fountains in the Hall gardens, although this flooded part of the vicarage garden. By the early 19th century the pool was silted up completely at the west end. In the 1840s it was partly filled and the rest was cleaned out, making two ornamental islands and landscaping the surrounding area. In its current form it covers some 20 acres. It is not known when it was first created, but references to a mill pool are found in the early 14th century.
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A relatively new nature reserve that is being taken back by nature. The waters meander in a natural way, the land is allowed to flood in heavy rain, and as you walk through you’ll feel like you’re leaving the rest of the world behind. Loads of birdwatching - it's a great site for Warblers, Whitethroat, Rereed and Sedge warbler. Also Grey Partridge, Little Ringed Plover, Snipe, Little Owl and Kingfisher have been spotted too. Add to this birds of prey including Osprey, Merlin, Buzzard, Kestrel and Peregrine have all been seen, along with the more locally rare marsh harrier, hen harrier and Montagu’s harrier. They've even had a red-footed falcon! Best pack your binoculars and start working through that list.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes around Osgathorpe?
The lakes in the Osgathorpe area are rich in wildlife. At Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park, over 150 bird species have been recorded, along with signs of otters and water voles. Melbourne Pool is known for its variety of bird species. Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve is excellent for birdwatching, with warblers, whitethroats, and various birds of prey. Blackbrook Reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to a unique plant community and native white-clawed crayfish. Swithland Reservoir is a haven for birdwatchers, particularly in winter, with diverse waterbirds and even Peregrine falcons.
Are there walking trails around the lakes near Osgathorpe?
Yes, many lakes in the area offer walking opportunities. You can enjoy leisurely walks on public footpaths around Blackbrook Reservoir, offering views of the historic One Barrow Viaduct. Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park features a network of walking trails, including an accessible 'All Ability Trail'. Staunton Harold Reservoir also provides scenic walking paths. Deer Park at Calke Abbey is great for walking and is part of the National Forest Silver Anniversary Trail.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond walking, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling paths at Staunton Harold Reservoir. Sence Valley Forest Park has trails for cycling and horse-riding, and hosts a free 5km parkrun every Saturday. For more structured routes, explore options like gravel biking, road cycling, and running trails around Osgathorpe. You can find detailed routes and guides for these activities on komoot, such as Gravel biking around Osgathorpe, Road Cycling Routes around Osgathorpe, and Running Trails around Osgathorpe.
Are the lakes around Osgathorpe family-friendly?
Many lakes in the area are well-suited for families. Deer Park at Calke Abbey, Staunton Harold Reservoir (with its playground and cafe), Melbourne Pool, and Horseshoe Lake in Sence Valley Forest Park are all considered family-friendly. Sence Valley Forest Park, in particular, offers an 'All Ability Trail' and picnic areas, making it ideal for various ages and abilities.
Are there any lakes with historical significance near Osgathorpe?
Yes, several lakes boast a rich history. Melbourne Pool is a historic lake dating back to the 14th century, with traditions linking it to the quarrying of stone for Melbourne Castle. Swithland Reservoir is a Victorian-era construction from the late 19th century, with heritage steam trains crossing its viaducts. Blackbrook Reservoir features the striking One Barrow Viaduct, a historic blue brick construction.
Are there accessible lakeside paths for all abilities?
Yes, Sence Valley Forest Park, home to Horseshoe Lake, is particularly notable for its accessible 'All Ability Trail' around the lake, making it suitable for visitors with varying mobility needs.
When is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Osgathorpe?
The lakes around Osgathorpe offer beauty throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the lush greenery, wildflowers, and warmer weather for walking and cycling. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, especially in areas like Sence Valley Forest Park. Winter can be excellent for birdwatching, particularly at Swithland Reservoir where Peregrine falcons are often seen. The 'All Ability Trail' at Sence Valley Forest Park makes it a good option for winter walks too.
Are there cafes or pubs near the lakes around Osgathorpe?
Yes, you'll find amenities near some of the lakes. Staunton Harold Reservoir has a cafe on-site. Sence Valley Forest Park features the Little Bluebird Café. Near Melbourne Pool, there are local shops and cafes within a minute's walk. Calke Abbey, which includes Deer Park, also has a cafe.
Is there parking available at the lakes?
Parking is available at several locations. Sence Valley Forest Park has a car park, though it now requires card or app payment. Staunton Harold Reservoir also offers parking facilities. For Deer Park at Calke Abbey, parking is available within the Calke Abbey grounds.
Are there dog-friendly walks around the lakes near Osgathorpe?
Yes, many areas are suitable for dog walking. Deer Park at Calke Abbey is listed as dog-friendly. Sence Valley Forest Park also welcomes dogs on its trails. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors, and check for any specific local restrictions.
What makes Blackbrook Reservoir unique among the lakes?
Blackbrook Reservoir is a 33.4-hectare biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It's unique for its rare plant community along its margins, including Juncus filiformis, which is rarely found in the Midlands. It also provides a habitat for native white-clawed crayfish, isolated from invasive species. The historic One Barrow Viaduct, a blue brick construction, adds to its distinctive character. More information can be found on Wikipedia.
Can I see steam trains near the lakes?
Yes, at Swithland Reservoir, you can experience the unique charm of heritage steam trains traversing the historic Great Central Railway viaducts that span the reservoir. This provides a distinctive attraction for visitors.
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