Best lakes around Sessay include a prominent fishing complex and natural lakes set within woodland. The area is characterized by its diverse aquatic environments, ranging from extensive, purpose-built fishing facilities to tranquil, spring-fed natural lakes. These features contribute to the region's appeal for outdoor activities. The landscape around Sessay offers opportunities for exploring natural reserves and enjoying views over water bodies.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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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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Well worth taking the path down from the Cleveland Way to Gormire Lake, where you can enjoy the peace of the ancient woodland that is Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve.
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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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You can also get a different view of the reservoir if you approach along the footpath from east of Pond Head Farm .
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The actual access to the reservoir is prohibited (a locked gate), so this is the closest and best you can get to. It's lovely place to stay at - very peaceful. Because it's inaccessible to the public, it also seems wild and serene. A great place to look at.
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Amazing views of Gormire Lake from the high paths of the Cleveland Way
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The Sessay area offers a mix of aquatic environments, from extensive, purpose-built fishing complexes like The Oaks Lakes to tranquil, natural spring-fed waters such as Gormire Lake, and even reservoirs like Oulston Reservoir.
Yes, The Oaks Lakes is a prominent and highly regarded fishing complex in Sessay. It features ten distinct lakes with over 400 pegs, catering to both match and pleasure fishing. It's considered one of the UK's leading fishing destinations, stocked with various carp, F1s, ide, barbel, and silverfish.
Yes, Gormire Lake is very popular for wild swimming. It's known for its clean water, fed by an underground spring, and is surprisingly warm with no currents, making it a glorious addition to a day of hiking in the surrounding nature reserve.
Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve offers a peaceful woodland environment with dramatic cliffs. The reserve features ancient woodland, thriving lichens, mosses, ferns, and various flowers. From the cliff tops, you can enjoy spectacular views over the lake and the Vale of York.
Yes, the area around Gormire Lake offers several nice walks. The classic Cleveland Way trail runs high on Whitestone Cliff, providing rewarding views over the lake. You can also find paths leading down into Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve, offering peaceful strolls through ancient woodland. For more options, explore the hiking routes around Sessay.
The Oaks Lakes complex provides excellent on-site amenities for visitors. These include a large café, a tackle shop for all your fishing needs, and a 25-pitch caravan and camping park, making it suitable for longer stays.
For a spectacular aerial perspective, visit View of Gormire Lake from Whitestone Cliff. This viewpoint is located on part of the classic Cleveland Way trail and offers expansive views over the lake and the surrounding landscape.
While specific easy lake walks are not detailed, the paths within Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve around Gormire Lake offer a peaceful environment. For general easy hiking options in the wider area, you can check out the easy hikes around Sessay guide.
Direct access to Oulston Reservoir is prohibited, as it is behind a locked gate. However, you can find viewpoints like View of Oulston Reservoir that offer a peaceful and serene look at the reservoir from a distance. Another view can be found along the footpath from east of Pond Head Farm.
Gormire Lake is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to a diverse range of plants and wildlife. Nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers often visit to observe the various species that thrive in its tranquil beauty and ecological importance.
Yes, the Sessay area offers various cycling opportunities. You can find several routes, including those passing by notable landmarks. For detailed cycling tours, refer to the Cycling around Sessay guide.
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and majestic beauty of Gormire Lake, especially its clean water for wild swimming and the serene atmosphere of the surrounding ancient woodland. The spectacular views from Whitestone Cliff are also highly valued.


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