Top 12 Lakes around Wakefield
Best lakes around Wakefield offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The area features several lakes, many of which are former industrial sites transformed into nature reserves or country parks. These locations provide settings for outdoor activities, from tranquil walks to family-friendly adventures. The region's lakes contribute to its natural appeal, drawing visitors seeking varied experiences in the outdoors.
Best lakes around Wakefield
- The most popular lakes is Cold Hiendley Reservoir, a lake that offers views and is suitable…
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Newmillerdam Lake
Highlight • Natural Monument
The dam was built …
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Pugneys Country Park Lake
Highlight • Rest Area
Toilets are open too
Pugneys Country Park is a 250-acre park located on the A636 between Wakefield, West Yorkshire, England …
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Cold Hiendley Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Stanley Marsh Local Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural
The Marsh was once …
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Anglers Country Park Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Walton Nature Reserve Lake
Highlight • Natural
There is a large male swan that sometimes wants to shoo you away lol
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Haw Park Wood
Highlight • Lake
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Bretton Lower Lake
Highlight • Natural
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Pontefract Park Lake
Highlight • Lake
In the west, some small footpaths are created by fields.
Nice place for a night round :-)
Translated by Google •
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Newmillerdam Country Park Woodland Trail
Highlight • Forest
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Other adventures around Wakefield
Tips from the Community
Cafe and toilets here as well as parking and children’s play area
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I expect this was for charity but there a lots of them loose from Jurassic Park lol
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This is vast and looks great as you get over the little bridge
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Haw Park Wood is located just outside Wakefield and is a lovely blend of mature trees and wildflowers. There are also lakes, a stream, and plenty of picnic benches to sit down and rest.
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Cold Hiendley Reservoir was constructed at the beginning of the 20th century to supply water to the growing city of Wakefield. The dam had to be strengthened in 1990. This is a popular fishing reservoir with large carp. There is a nice trail around the edge and the Trans Pennine Trail follows the Barnsley Canal path past the dam.
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Nice walk to take younger kids on, especially if they like Room on the Broom as there are wood carvings of characters from the book that tell the story as you go around the lake.
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The bridge between the upper and lower lake in Bretton Lakes country park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly lakes around Wakefield?
Yes, several lakes in the Wakefield area are excellent for families. Pugneys Country Park Lake offers a Pirates' Cove play area, a Blown Away adventure trail, and ample open spaces. Anglers Country Park Lake is home to the popular "Room on the Broom" adventure trail. Newmillerdam Lake is also suitable for families, with its well-surfaced path.
Which lakes in Wakefield are suitable for walks with pushchairs or wheelchairs?
Newmillerdam Lake features a well-surfaced path around its perimeter, making it suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs, and children on bikes. Pugneys Country Park also offers wide entrances and paths, making it accessible for wheelchair users.
Where can I go for a peaceful nature walk around Wakefield's lakes?
For tranquil nature walks, Newmillerdam Lake is a designated nature reserve. Walton Nature Reserve Lake, part of Walton Colliery Nature Park, provides a peaceful environment for wildlife observation. Haw Park Wood also offers a blend of woodland and water for a serene experience.
Are there cafes or facilities available at the lakes?
Yes, Pugneys Country Park Lake has a cafe and toilets available for visitors. Anglers Country Park Lake also provides a cafe and toilets, along with parking and a children's play area. Pontefract Park Lake is another option with facilities.
What kind of wildlife can I spot at Wakefield's lakes?
The lakes are rich in wildlife. At Cold Hiendley Reservoir, you can often observe swans and fishermen. Pugneys Country Park Lake is a Local Nature Reserve, focusing on wildlife habitats and offering opportunities for waterfowl spotting. Newmillerdam Lake and Walton Nature Reserve are also excellent for observing local flora and fauna.
Can I go cycling around the lakes in Wakefield?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Pugneys Country Park Lake offers open spaces suitable for cycling. For longer routes that include lakes, you can explore options like the 'Newmillerdam Woods Trail – Haw Park Woods loop' or 'Fairies Hill Moorings – Woodland Path loop'. You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling around Wakefield guide.
Are there good running trails near the lakes in Wakefield?
Absolutely. Many lakes offer excellent running opportunities. For example, you can find routes like the 'Pontefract Park Lake – Pontefract Park Reservoir loop' or the 'Woodland Stream – Newmillerdam Lake loop'. Discover more running trails in the Running Trails around Wakefield guide.
What are some easy hiking options around Wakefield's lakes?
There are several easy hiking options. An 'easy' rated route is 'A loop of Newmiller Dam' which is approximately 3 km. Another easy option is 'Around the lake at Bretton Country Park' at about 5 km. You can find more easy hikes, including routes around Anglers Country Park Lake and Pugneys Country Park Lake, in the Easy hikes around Wakefield guide.
Is it possible to take dogs to the lakes in Wakefield?
Many of the lakes in the Wakefield area are dog-friendly. Horbury Lagoon, for instance, welcomes dogs, offering grassy areas and opportunities for them to enter the water. It's always a good idea to check specific park rules for leash requirements.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Wakefield?
The lakes around Wakefield can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for outdoor activities, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Even in winter, places like Newmillerdam Lake are popular for walks, offering a different kind of serene beauty.
Are there any lakes suitable for fishing in the Wakefield area?
Horbury Lagoon is particularly known for its fishing, stocked with carp, pike, tench, and bream. You might also see fishermen at Cold Hiendley Reservoir.
What is the difference between Newmillerdam Lake and Pugneys Country Park Lake?
Newmillerdam Lake is a natural monument and nature reserve, known for its tranquil walks on a well-surfaced path suitable for all. Pugneys Country Park Lake, developed from a former opencast mine, is a larger 250-acre Local Nature Reserve offering more extensive family-friendly activities, a cafe, and open spaces for various recreational uses.
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