Top 6 Lakes around Boltby
Best lakes around Boltby offers a diverse natural landscape in North Yorkshire, featuring both natural and man-made water bodies. The area is characterized by its tranquil woodlands, dramatic cliffs, and unique geological formations. Boltby is situated near the North York Moors National Park, providing a setting for outdoor activities centered around its lakes. These water features contribute to the region's appeal for those seeking natural exploration.
Best lakes around Boltby
- The most popular lakes is Gormire Lake, a natural…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Gormire Lake
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Cod Beck Reservoir
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Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve
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Upper Oakdale Reservoir
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Nettle Dale ponds
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Tips from the Community
Gormire Lake is a natural lowland lake that lies at the foot of Whitestone Cliff, a western escarpment of the Hambleton Hills
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Meaning "filthy swamp", there are many local legends and myths surrounding this lake, such as it is bottomless (it is 6.5m deep) and was created by an earthquake that swallowed a village resulting in the lake today (it is a glacial lake).
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The public footpath down to the nature reserve from the Cleveland Way (at the location on OS maps marked as "Great Relief Pot") is reasonably steep, but can be very narrow in places with short wooden planks driven into the ground along the downward side of the path, presumably to prevent the path from eroding and collapsing. In other places there are plenty of stones and tree roots to help stabilise your ascent/descent. As you approach Gormire Lake look out for a very curious and quite large boulder that is almost an 8-10 foot high perfect cube. The nature reserve consists of ancient woodland and is very peaceful. Easy to access the water's edge at Gormire Lake.
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Easy parking (ice cream van in summer!) at Sheep Wash, great path through the coniferous wood running along the southern edge of the reservoir, awesome views, cool breeze across the water, option to follow numerous tracks east into the woods around Cote Garth and Golden Square. Lots of familys, dog walkers and hikers - something for everyone here.
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Left for the local wildlife, this reservoir's banks can be quite overgrown in summer, making it difficult to see.
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Cleveland Way runs the length of the southern side of this chain of lakes, but there is a short bridleway to the north of the westernmost edge of the lakes, which takes you up a climb to Dick Wood, just east of Old Byland. Lots of waterfowl and ducks.
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This little and picturesque reservoir is no longer used by the water company Yorkshire Water for water supply; having reduced the amount of water in it, they nonetheless left it to exist and thrive. A beautiful place, and the forested slopes on the other side of the reservoir are truly lovely.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Gormire Lake unique among the lakes near Boltby?
Gormire Lake is one of North Yorkshire's few truly natural bodies of water, formed after the last ice age. It's known for its tranquil beauty, surrounded by lush woodland, and is believed to be fed by an underground spring. Its remarkably clean, warm water and absence of currents make it a popular spot for wild swimming. You can explore more about it here: Gormire Lake.
Can I go wild swimming in the lakes around Boltby?
Yes, Gormire Lake is particularly popular for wild swimming. Its water is noted for being very clean, warm, and having no currents, making it an ideal spot for a refreshing dip.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Gormire Lake?
The area around Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve features dramatic cliffs rising from the treetops, lush woodland with birch, oak, and holly, and diverse flora including wildflowers, lichens, mosses, and ferns. Spectacular vistas can be enjoyed from Whitestone Cliff, located high above the lake.
Are there family-friendly walks near the lakes?
Yes, Cod Beck Reservoir offers a walk of around 1.5 miles through moorland and woodlands, which is suitable for families. The general area around Boltby also provides various trails that can be enjoyed by families.
What is the history of Boltby Reservoir?
Boltby Reservoir was originally built in 1882 to supply water to local villages. After being decommissioned by Yorkshire Water and undergoing re-landscaping in 2007, its water level was lowered. It transformed from a commercial fishing spot into a smaller wildlife lake, now a haven for wildflowers and diverse wildlife, though wild brown trout can still be spotted.
What outdoor activities are available near the lakes around Boltby?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, cycling, and mountain biking. For example, explore options like the 'Hambleton Horizon – Gravel Explorer' for gravel biking, or the 'Sneck Yate Bank loop from Boltby' for cycling. Mountain biking trails include the 'Boltby Forest Trails'. You can find more details on these activities here: Gravel biking around Boltby, Cycling around Boltby, and MTB Trails around Boltby.
Are there any nature reserves or protected areas near Boltby's lakes?
Yes, Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve is a notable protected area. It's a peaceful woodland nature reserve with ancient woodland, diverse plant life, and dramatic cliffs. Cod Beck Reservoir is also surrounded by SSSI (Site of Specific Scientific Interest) moorland and woodlands.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Boltby?
Visitors appreciate the tranquil and majestic atmosphere, especially at Gormire Lake, which is often described as a hidden gem due to its serene beauty and ecological importance. The peaceful woodland settings and opportunities for walks, like those around Cod Beck Reservoir, are also highly valued.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known lakes to explore?
While not as widely known, Upper Oakdale Reservoir is a picturesque spot that is no longer used for water supply and has been left to thrive for local wildlife. Its forested slopes offer a lovely, peaceful experience.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Boltby?
The lakes around Boltby are beautiful year-round. However, spring and summer are particularly pleasant for enjoying the wildflowers and diverse wildlife, especially around Boltby Reservoir's wild meadow. These seasons are also ideal for wild swimming at Gormire Lake and for hiking the various trails.
Are there viewpoints offering scenic views of the lakes?
Yes, from Whitestone Cliff, located high above Gormire Lake on the Cleveland Way trail, you can enjoy spectacular vistas over the lake and the surrounding landscape. The Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve also offers dramatic cliff-top views.
Can I find walking trails that include the lakes?
Absolutely. Trails like the Sutton Bank, White Horse of Kilburn, and Gormire Lake Circular provide opportunities to experience the beauty of Gormire Lake and its natural environment. Additionally, a 1.5-mile walk circles Cod Beck Reservoir.
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