Lakes around Bulmer, a village in North Yorkshire, offer a variety of water features for exploration. While the village itself does not host large natural lakes, the surrounding area includes historical water bodies, specialized fishing lakes, and artificial lakes within estates. This region provides diverse opportunities for outdoor activities centered around these water features. The landscape combines historical significance with natural beauty, making it a point of interest for those exploring North Yorkshire.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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This beautiful arboretum is run jointly by Castle Howard Estates and Royal Botanic Gardens (Kew). Started in 1959, it has over 6,000 trees on 128 acres of ground. These are fantastically beautiful, landscaped grounds for any walker, including families and those with pets. There is a café at the entrance to the Arboretum. There is an entry fee. Please check at the website before going. https://www.yorkshirearboretum.org
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A lovely segment here down (or up from) Ganthorpe, with some picturesque ponds just outside Ganthorpe. There are pleasant views of Owlers Wood (east) and Cum Hag Wood (north-east) on this walk. A perfect stroll on your next weekend.
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A lovely little triangle-shaped pond on the western end of The Yorkshire Arboretum. Surrounded by beautiful trees that take gorgeous colours, particularly in the autumn. A peaceful place.
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This is a really gorgeous place. Right on the bank of the Great Lake, there are stunning views across the water from here, as well as picnic tables and an adventure playground for children. Peace, quiet and essentially nirvana!
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This is a lovely fishing lake right next to Birkdale Farm. It certainly offers a sense of peace and solitude here, in the lovely setting of the surrounding woodlands and hills. There is a boating hut on the bank, plenty of easy spaces for a picnic and space for parking nearby. If you would like to fish, one can hire fishing rods from the farm.
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Parkland of over 6,000 trees, wildflower meadows & lakes, with a playground & bug hunting for kids.
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Around Bulmer, you'll find a variety of water features, including specialized fishing lakes like Birkdale Farm, tranquil ponds such as Sata Pond within The Yorkshire Arboretum, and grand artificial lakes within estates like Castle Howard. The area also has historical water bodies that inspired the village's name.
Yes, the very name 'Bulmer' is believed to originate from 'bull mere,' referring to a lake or pond frequented by a bull. While the specific historical 'bull mere' may no longer be a prominent feature, its existence highlights the historical presence of water bodies in the area, linking to the village's past.
For stunning views, visit the Boathouse Café, which is situated right on the bank of the Great Lake, offering panoramic vistas across the water. Another peaceful and picturesque spot is Sata Pond within The Yorkshire Arboretum, especially beautiful in autumn with its surrounding trees.
Absolutely. Birkdale Farm is a lovely fishing lake offering peace and solitude. Further afield, Bulmers Lake near Ripon is a picturesque, one-acre lake regularly stocked with Rainbow and Blue Trout, making it an excellent destination for fly fishing enthusiasts. Tollerton Pond in wider North Yorkshire is also noted as a serene escape for fishing.
Many spots are family-friendly. The Boathouse Café on the Great Lake offers picnic tables and an adventure playground for children. The Yorkshire Arboretum, which includes lakes, features beautifully landscaped grounds suitable for families, with over 6,000 trees and often activities like bug hunting for kids.
You can find various walking opportunities. The artificial lake at Castle Howard offers scenic views and opportunities for leisurely walks around its perimeter. The Yorkshire Arboretum provides extensive landscaped grounds for walkers. Additionally, the Moor Hill to Ganthorpe Bridleway and Ponds offers a perfect stroll with picturesque ponds and views of nearby woods.
Beyond leisurely walks, the area around Bulmer offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous running trails, such as the 'Four Faces Folly and The Pyramid loop' from Mains Lane. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy routes like the 'Great Lake (Castle Howard) – Castle Howard loop' from Bulmer. For mountain biking, there are trails like the 'Coneysthorpe loop' in the Howardian Hills. You can find more details on these activities and routes in the Running Trails around Bulmer, Cycling around Bulmer, and MTB Trails around Bulmer guides.
While Bulmer itself is a village, public transport options to specific lakes might be limited. For major attractions like Castle Howard, which features a large artificial lake, it's advisable to check their official website for public transport information or consider driving, as parking is usually available.
Amenities vary by location. The Boathouse Café is located directly on the Great Lake, offering refreshments and stunning views. The Yorkshire Arboretum has a café at its entrance. Tollerton Pond, though further out, also provides a café and clean facilities. For other lakes, nearby villages or towns would offer pubs and accommodation.
Visitors appreciate the peace and solitude offered by fishing lakes like Birkdale Farm, set amidst woodlands and hills. The stunning views from spots like the Boathouse Café across the Great Lake are also highly praised. The tranquil environment and beautiful autumn colors around Sata Pond within The Yorkshire Arboretum are also highlights for many.
Some attractions associated with lakes may have entry fees. For example, The Yorkshire Arboretum, which includes lakes within its grounds, has an entry fee. It's always best to check the respective attraction's website before your visit for current pricing and opening hours.


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