Top 9 Lakes around Barnsley
Best lakes around Barnsley offer diverse natural landscapes within South Yorkshire, a region known for its industrial heritage now transformed into green spaces. The area features a mix of man-made reservoirs and natural wetlands, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. These bodies of water are often surrounded by rolling hills and moorlands, contributing to the region's scenic appeal. Barnsley's lakes serve as important habitats for wildlife and popular spots for recreation.
Best lakes around Barnsley
- The most popular lakes is Langsett…
Last updated: April 30, 2026
RSPB Old Moor Nature Reserve
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Langsett Woods
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Winscar Reservoir
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Ingbirchworth Reservoir
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During very dry …
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Elsecar Reservoir Local Nature Reserve
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Underbank Reservoir
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Harden Reservoir
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Bretton Lower Lake
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Worsbrough Reservoir and Mill
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The Worsbrough Mill was built in the seventeenth …
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Worsbrough Reservoir and Pier
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Popular around Barnsley
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Tips from the Community
A great walk. Free parking. Cafe across road and down hill a bit from car park
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Beautiful woodland, popular with dog walkers and cyclists.
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This reservoir is located in close proximity to Stocksbridge. It's about a 3 mile walk around the lake with a nice quiet footpath on the southern side and a roadside path on the northern side.
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A lovely spot just off the road with trail paths all around and a great view down to Winscar. Just be mindful that the paths on the southern bank get pretty muddy after rain!
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Winscar Reservoir, near Holmfirth in West Yorkshire, is a picturesque man-made lake dating back to 1850. Surrounded by rolling hills, it offers opportunities for scenic walks, birdwatching, and a peaceful escape in nature.
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A nice simple walk around. Can get muddy in places after rain so worth doing in boots if the weather hasn't been great/in the more wintery months
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Barnsley are best for a family day out?
Many lakes in the Barnsley area are great for families. Langsett Woods is popular for walks suitable for all ages. Winscar Reservoir offers a paved path, ideal for prams and bikes. Worsbrough Mill Lake, within Worsbrough Mill Country Park, features an adventure play area and a tea room. Cannon Hall Park Lakes also provide a children's play area and family-friendly trails.
Where can I go for wildlife spotting, especially birdwatching, near Barnsley?
The RSPB Old Moor Nature Reserve is a premier spot for birdwatching, home to rare species like bitterns and avocets. Ingbirchworth Reservoir is also a popular location for birdwatching. Worsbrough Mill Lake is a haven for wildlife, attracting many birdwatchers, and Dearne Valley Country Park's 'wildlife lake' is known for kingfishers and pike.
Are there accessible paths for wheelchairs or prams around Barnsley's lakes?
Yes, Winscar Reservoir features a paved path that is part of the Transpennine Trail, making it suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Worsbrough Mill Country Park also has some paths around Worsbrough Mill Lake that are suitable for wheelchairs.
What kind of walking and hiking trails can I find near the lakes?
You'll find a variety of walking and hiking trails. For example, the area around Langsett Woods offers great family walks. Snailsden Reservoir, high on the moors, provides a more challenging, intermediate route. Worsbrough Mill Country Park offers several marked routes like the 5km Owl Walk. For more detailed routes, you can explore the hiking guide for Barnsley.
Which lakes are dog-friendly for walks?
Winscar Reservoir is noted as dog-friendly. Dearne Valley Country Park, featuring Hoyle Mill Lake, is also a popular spot for dog walking. Always ensure dogs are kept under control and follow local guidelines, especially in nature reserves.
Are there any cafes or facilities available at the lakes?
Yes, the RSPB Old Moor Nature Reserve has a visitor center and cafe. Worsbrough Mill Country Park, home to Worsbrough Mill Lake, offers a tea room. Elsecar Reservoir is known as a pleasant spot for a picnic, and Cannon Hall Park Lakes also have cafes available.
Can I go fishing at any of the lakes around Barnsley?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at several lakes. Ingbirchworth Reservoir is a popular spot for fishing. Hoyle Mill Lake in Dearne Valley Country Park is managed by the Hoyle Mill Angling Club and is home to various fish species. Tinkers Pond is also a hidden gem for coarse fishing, known for carp, tench, and bream.
What historical or cultural sites are near the lakes?
Worsbrough Mill Country Park, surrounding Worsbrough Mill Lake, features a 17th-century working watermill where you can see traditionally ground flour. Cannon Hall Park Lakes are set within historic parklands that are undergoing restoration to their Georgian splendor, offering a glimpse into the past.
Are there opportunities for cycling around the lakes?
Yes, the paved path around Winscar Reservoir is part of the Transpennine Trail and is suitable for all bikes. The Transpennine Trail also runs through the RSPB wetlands near RSPB Old Moor Nature Reserve, making it a great place to visit by bike. Dearne Valley Country Park also offers cycling routes. For more cycling options, check out the gravel biking guide for Barnsley.
Which lakes offer scenic views or viewpoints?
Ingbirchworth Reservoir is known for its scenic views across the water from the dam wall. Winscar Reservoir, surrounded by rolling hills, also offers picturesque views. Snailsden Reservoir is beautifully situated high on the moors, providing a pretty setting.
Are there any less crowded or 'hidden gem' lakes to explore?
While many lakes can be popular, Snailsden Reservoir, located high on the moors, offers a pretty and somewhat secluded setting for a picnic. Tinkers Pond is also described as a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Barnsley?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and summer offer the best conditions for walking and outdoor activities. During very dry periods, the historic Summer Ford Bridge at Ingbirchworth Reservoir can emerge from the water, offering a unique sight. Be aware that paths, especially on the southern bank of Winscar Reservoir and around Snailsden Reservoir, can become muddy after rain.
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