Top 8 Lakes around Bradford
Lakes around Bradford offer diverse natural and man-made water bodies within the city and its wider West Yorkshire region. The area features reservoirs, tarns, and ornamental lakes, providing various recreational opportunities. These locations are set amidst landscapes ranging from urban parks to the Yorkshire Dales, reflecting the region's varied geography. Many sites hold historical significance, having been developed for water supply or as Victorian leisure spots.
Best lakes around Bradford
- The most popular lakes is The Tarn, Ilkley Moor,…
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Lister Park
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Coppice Pond, St Ives Estate
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The Tarn, Ilkley Moor
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Ponden Reservoir
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The Glen Woodland and Stream
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Lower Laithe Reservoir
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Spring Wood and The Dam
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Leeming Reservoir
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There are a few routes in the area, including the family friendly Leeming reservoir walk …
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Woodland Path to Chellow Reservoir
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Popular around Bradford
Yorkshire Dales National Park – A Walk in the Parks
A Dales High Way – Hiking in winter
Calderdale Way — Hike an awesomely accessible wilderness
A Dales High Way – Yorkshire's beautiful backbone
Dales Way — Quintessential English countryside at its best
Walk Britain – 90 car-free adventures in England, Wales and Scotland
A Walk in the Parks – hikes across all of England’s national parks
Sculptures, fields and industrial heritage — Spen Valley Greenway
Hiking around Bradford
Road Cycling Routes around Bradford
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Tips from the Community
Neat little footpath to access the reservoir, and take in the view of Bradford, you may even spot a horse or two!
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The sound of the running water from the stream is very relaxing.
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Leeming reservoir was built by the Victorians to supply the textile mills of the area. There are a few routes in the area, including the family friendly Leeming reservoir walk (under 2 miles) and longer walks taking in the villages or towns of Haworth, Oxenhope and/or Cullingworth. The Lamb Inn pub is only round the corner.
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The Tarn is a scenic lake located on Ilkley Moor in West Yorkshire. It's a great place for a stroll or picnic, or to just simply unwind in nature. Since the Victorian era, the tarn has remained a beloved destination for its natural beauty. During the winter months the Victorians would even ice skate on the frozen water.
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Located on the western side of the Aire Valley above Bingley in West Yorkshire, St Ives Estate is a country park of 217ha. Much of the estate is woodland and heath, and in these areas are various places with evidence of ancient settlements in the Stone, Bronze and Iron Age, Roman and medieval periods. These include the “Fairfax entrenchment”, an ancient ditch named after a Civil War general but actually much older. From the 12th to the 16th centuries the land belonged to Rievaulx and Drax abbeys and was known as Harden Grange The whole estate is a Grade II listed park. The 17th century Harden Grange, the 19th century St Ives Mansion (now a care home), and several other individual buildings are also listed grade II
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Bradford are suitable for families with children?
Several lakes in the Bradford area are great for families. The Tarn, Ilkley Moor, offers an easy, pram-friendly tarmacked path. Lister Park features a renovated boating lake, children's playground, and ample green spaces. Coppice Pond, St Ives Estate, provides a natural setting within a country park, and Ponden Reservoir is also considered family-friendly.
Can I go wild swimming in any of the lakes near Bradford?
Gaddings Dam, often called 'Britain's highest beach' near Todmorden, is a popular spot for wild swimming. However, it's important to note there are no facilities like changing rooms, toilets, or lifeguards, and access is by foot only via steep paths. Swimming is generally prohibited in other reservoirs like Grimwith and Doe Park due to hidden dangers such as cold water, machinery, strong currents, and potential blue-green algae.
Are there any lakes with accessible paths for wheelchairs or prams?
Yes, Grimwith Reservoir in the Yorkshire Dales offers a 4.5-mile, wheelchair-accessible footpath that circumnavigates the reservoir, providing beautiful views. The Tarn, Ilkley Moor, also has an easy, pram-friendly tarmacked path around its edge.
What kind of water activities are available at lakes near Bradford?
Doe Park Reservoir near Denholme is a dedicated water activities center, offering sailing, canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, dragon boating, and raft building. Ponden Reservoir is also used for sailing and canoeing by the Ponden Water Sport Club. Lister Park in Bradford has a renovated boating lake.
Which lakes have historical significance or interesting landmarks?
The Tarn, Ilkley Moor, is an artificial lake developed by Victorians and was a site where Emmeline Pankhurst addressed suffragettes. Coppice Pond, St Ives Estate, is part of a country park with evidence of ancient settlements and a Grade II listed park. Gaddings Dam, while known for swimming, also has industrial and environmental significance, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Are there good hiking or walking trails around the lakes?
Many lakes offer excellent walking opportunities. Gaddings Dam has breathtaking views and hiking paths, though access is by foot only. Grimwith Reservoir features a 4.5-mile circular path. You can find various hiking routes around the region, including trails near The Tarn, Ilkley Moor. For more options, explore waterfall hikes around Bradford, which often incorporate reservoirs and natural water features.
What are the best lakes for birdwatching near Bradford?
Grimwith Reservoir in the Yorkshire Dales is a significant area for birds, known for its diverse wildfowl populations, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching.
Can I take my dog to the lakes around Bradford?
Many outdoor areas around Bradford's lakes and reservoirs are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near wildlife or livestock. Specific rules may vary by location, so check local signage. For example, Ponden Reservoir's tips mention 'Mind the ducks', implying dogs are present.
Are there any mountain biking or gravel biking routes near the lakes?
Yes, the wider Bradford area offers numerous routes for cycling. You can find MTB Trails around Bradford and Gravel biking around Bradford, many of which pass by or are close to various reservoirs and natural water features, offering scenic rides.
What unique natural features can I expect to see at these lakes?
Gaddings Dam is unique for its sandy shore, earning it the nickname 'Britain's highest beach.' Grimwith Reservoir is notable for its vast size and importance for birdlife. The Glen Woodland and Stream features a small waterfall and pond, dropping down to a reservoir, offering a tranquil woodland experience.
Are there any urban parks with lakes in Bradford?
Yes, Lister Park, also known as Manningham Park, is a significant urban park within Bradford city. It features a renovated boating lake, along with other amenities like a Mughal Water Garden, tennis courts, and Cartwright Hall art gallery, making it a great spot for recreation within the city.
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