Lakes around Erewash, a borough in Derbyshire, England, offer diverse water-based attractions. The area features natural beauty, providing tranquil spots for wildlife observation and scenic walks. It includes reservoirs, nature reserves, and man-made lakes, often with historical connections to the region's heritage. The River Erewash forms part of the borough's eastern boundary, contributing to the local aquatic landscape.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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A scenic, peaceful, and popular, privately-owned, man-made lake situated within the historic Locko Park estate. It is surrounded by lush green parkland, making it ideal for quiet walks, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
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The Trent Valley Way is a 108 mile (174 km) long distance path following the course of the river. This section follows one of the banks through the Attenborough Nature Reserve alongside East Lake.
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The site is made up of a large lake, a section of the River Nutbrook and a patchwork of unimproved, species rich meadows under Countryside Stewardship. The lake is home to a variety of waterfowl including swans, Canadian geese, moorhen, mallard, great crested grebe and coot.
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Known locally as `Swan Lake` this is a beautiful place to walk, bird watch and enjoy the views. Handy onsite parking.
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Located along the Nutbrook Trail, adjacent to Straw's Bridge. Despite the stretch of water that gives it name to Manor Floods the water covers a relatively small proportion of the site.
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St Chad’s water was created in the 1970’s during the excavation of the underlying gravel deposits by Haveringham Gravels. As quarrying proceeded, water flooded the lake through the subterranean water table and once the site was abandoned, the lake and its environs were sold to Draycott and Church Wilne Parish Council for £1.00. St Chads Water and its surrounding environments are an important local resource for informal countryside recreation such as fishing, walking and bird watching. The site is approx. 23 acres and consists of the Lake with a circular walking path around it, woodland edges, a wildflower meadow area and in 2023 we have opened up a new area for use as an outdoor classroom.
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A Local Nature Reserve (LNR) on the edge of Ilkeston. It comprises a section of the Nutbrook Canal, a pond, carr woodland and a superb species-rich meadow.
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For scenic walks and nature enjoyment, Locko Park Lake is a popular choice, offering a peaceful setting within a historic estate. Another great option is Swan Lake at Straw's Bridge, known for its beautiful views and birdwatching opportunities. Codnor Park Reservoir also provides an easy path around the water, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Yes, several lakes in Erewash are suitable for families. Pioneer Meadows Pond is a peaceful spot known for waterfowl, perfect for a quiet family outing. Spring Lakes offers a wide array of family-friendly activities, including an Aquapark, pedalo rides, and sandy beaches. Swan Lake at Straw's Bridge and St Chad's Water Nature Reserve are also great for walks and enjoying the outdoors with children.
For watersports, Spring Lakes is the primary destination in Erewash. It features two spring-fed lakes offering activities like wakeboarding, open water swimming, and pedalo rides. You can also find an Aquapark, sandy beaches, and options to hire equipment or launch your own.
Erewash offers excellent spots for birdwatching and wildlife. Mapperley Reservoir is a prime location for wildlife spotting, especially birdwatching, and is popular for fishing. Codnor Park Reservoir is a haven for wild waterfowl and birds. The River Trent at East Lake, Attenborough Nature Reserve, connected via the Erewash Canal, is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including kingfishers, bitterns, and otters. Erewash Meadows Nature Reserve is also an important site for observing water voles and various water birds.
Mapperley Reservoir, while a natural beauty spot, is surrounded by countryside featuring remnants of the area's coal mining heritage, adding a historical dimension to walks. It also serves as a feeder for the Cromford Canal, which itself has historical importance as a transport route.
Yes, many lakes in Erewash offer easy and enjoyable walks. Codnor Park Reservoir has an easy path that circumnavigates the water. Mapperley Reservoir provides pleasant routes for walking, with good access. Swan Lake at Straw's Bridge is also known as a beautiful place for a walk. For more detailed routes, you can explore running guides like the 'Mapperley Reservoir – Mapperley Reservoir loop' from Ilkeston, available on komoot.
Yes, several locations provide good accessibility and parking. Codnor Park Reservoir offers free parking and an easy path around the water. Mapperley Reservoir has good access, including for disabled anglers. Swan Lake at Straw's Bridge has handy onsite parking. View of St. Chads Water also offers free parking.
Erewash Meadows Nature Reserve is a significant site for nature observation, particularly for water voles and various water birds. It's the largest area of floodplain and grassland in the Erewash Valley, jointly managed by the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trusts, offering opportunities for peaceful walks and wildlife spotting.
The Erewash area offers various outdoor activities. For cycling, you can explore routes like the 'Trent Lock – Attenborough Nature Reserve loop' or the 'Erewash Canal Towpath – Nottingham Canal loop'. Running enthusiasts can enjoy trails such as the 'Mapperley Reservoir – Mapperley Reservoir loop' or the 'Attenborough Nature Reserve – Sandiacre Lock loop'. You can find more cycling routes at Cycling around Erewash and running trails at Running Trails around Erewash.
For a quiet escape, Pioneer Meadows Pond is a peaceful spot known for its tranquility and waterfowl. Locko Park Lake, situated within a private estate, also offers a scenic and peaceful environment for quiet walks away from busier areas. Pewit Carr Pond is another serene wetland area for quiet contemplation.
The lakes in Erewash can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for watersports at Spring Lakes and for observing abundant wildlife. Autumn offers beautiful foliage around Mapperley Reservoir and Codnor Park Reservoir. Even in winter, many paths around the lakes remain accessible for walks, though conditions may vary. Always check local conditions before visiting.
If you're looking for a peaceful spot, Pioneer Meadows Pond is highly recommended as a quiet place to sit among the trees and watch waterfowl. Locko Park Lake also offers a serene setting for quiet contemplation and enjoying the natural surroundings.


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