Top 6 Lakes around Rearsby
Best lakes around Rearsby are found in the surrounding Leicestershire area, as Rearsby itself does not feature prominent natural lakes. This region offers several notable lakes and water-based activity centers. Visitors can find fishing lakes, open water swimming venues, and country parks with lake features. The area provides a range of water-based activities and natural beauty.
Best lakes around Rearsby
- The most popular lakes is Swithland Reservoir, a viewpoint that offers views of a reservoir built around 1896. This…
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Swithland Reservoir
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Cropston Reservoir
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Most of the land required for the reservoir, dam and waterworks belonged to the Bradgate Estate. …
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John Merrick's Lake
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John Merricks, was a silver Olympic medallist who …
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Racehub Lake
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Cossington Meadows Nature Reserve
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In September 1867, 180 acres of land was purchased for a cost of £24,000. Most of the land required for the reservoir, dam and waterworks belonged to the Bradgate Estate. Lord Stamford insisted that a stone wall be built around the boundary to separate the deer park from the reservoir, instead of the proposed iron railings. This wall, 1,500 yards long was eventually built at a cost of 8s 10d per yard. Joseph Reeves, Head Gamekeeper, outside his house. Some of the Bradgate Estate land was part of the deer park, but most was farmland let out on very long leases. One farmer, Joseph Allen, lost virtually all his farm. Two members of the Matts family had theirs considerably reduced in size. The Gamekeeper’s house and land, together with a nearby bridge, were also in the area to be flooded. The house, together with its stables and outhouses, were demolished and the bricks sold. Part of the footpath between Anstey and Hallgates was submerged, as was the site of the old rabbit warren (or conery).
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John Merrick's Lake is one of numerous lakes within the Reedbed Nature Reserve. The reserve is a great place for birdwatching, with wildlife all around you.
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Cossington Meadow, overseen by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, was once a gravel quarry during the 1980s and 90s. As part of the Leicestershire Round development, the pits were filled with inert waste, some areas were covered with soil and seeded with grass, and deep holes were intentionally left to create lakes. Interpretation boards across the site provide information about the diverse plant and animal life that has established itself in the reserve.
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Swithland Reservoir, opened in 1896 for Leicester, had a 500 million-gallon capacity but became insufficient. In the early 20th century, a pipeline from Derwent reservoirs in Derbyshire was required. As you pass Buddon Wood, quarried in the early Iron Age for millstones, take a moment to enjoy the scenery, woodland, and water birds. You might also catch sight of steam trains on the viaduct from this spot.
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Swithland Reservoir is a reservoir in the English county of Leicestershire. It is north-east of the village of Swithland from which it takes its name, north-west of Rothley and approximately 133 metres (145 yd) south-west of Mountsorrel Quarry. It is part of the 187.1-hectare (462-acre) Buddon Wood and Swithland Reservoir Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
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John Merrick's Lake is on the "Red Route", a loop of hard surfaced paths around the northernmost lake in Watermead Country Park. The red route paths are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. They're also shared with cyclists. John Merricks, was a silver Olympic medallist who competed in sailing events on a nearby lake as a schoolboy.
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John Merrick's Lake is on the "Red Route", a loop of hard surfaced paths around the northernmost lake in Watermead Country Park. John Merricks, was a silver Olympic medallist who competed in sailing events on a nearby lake as a schoolboy.
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A great view over the water and at the passing vintage railway.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for nature observation and wildlife around Rearsby?
For nature observation, John Merrick's Lake within Watermead Country Park is an excellent choice. It's part of the Reedbed Nature Reserve, offering great opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife. Watermead Country Park itself is known for diverse species of butterflies, moths, dragonflies, and damselflies. Additionally, Cossington Meadows Nature Reserve, a former gravel quarry, has been transformed into a habitat rich in plant and animal life, with interpretation boards providing information on the diverse species.
Are there family-friendly lakes near Rearsby?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. John Merrick's Lake in Watermead Country Park features the 'Red Route' with hard-surfaced paths that are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. Watermead Country Park also offers a network of paths for walking. Cropston Reservoir provides views over the water, and toilets are available at the nearby Bradgate Park car park. Frisby Lakes Fishery, while primarily for fishing, also has a cafe, a children's play area, and a picnic area, making it suitable for families.
Where can I go fishing near Rearsby?
The area around Rearsby offers excellent fishing opportunities. Shearsby Valley Lakes is a popular destination with four well-stocked fishing lakes, offering day tickets for pleasure fishing and competitive matches. Frisby Lakes Fishery, near Melton Mowbray, is renowned for carp fishing, with some carp exceeding 30lb, and is open year-round.
Are there opportunities for open water swimming or diving?
Yes, for open water swimming, Stanton Lakes provides a natural setting known for its excellent water quality. It's a favored spot for those training or seeking an outdoor swim. Racehub Lake also offers open water swimming a few times a week. For diving enthusiasts, Stoney Cove National Dive Centre, a large flooded quarry, serves as the UK's National Dive Centre, offering a unique underwater adventure park environment and a heated pool for training.
What kind of views can I expect at the lakes around Rearsby?
You can enjoy scenic views at several locations. Swithland Reservoir offers expansive views of the reservoir, which is divided by the Great Central Railway. Cropston Reservoir also provides great views over the water. Watermead Country Park, with its multiple lakes and wetland habitats, offers tranquil scenery and opportunities for wildlife observation.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes, besides fishing and swimming?
The region around Rearsby offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, mountain biking, and running. For example, there are several cycling routes like the 'Hill Top Farm Shop & Café – Hoby Village loop' or the 'Ruins of Bradgate House – Bradgate Park Visitor Centre loop'. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails such as the 'Swithland Reservoir – The Labyrinth loop'. Runners have options like the 'Running loop from Rearsby' or the 'All Saints' Church, Hoby – Thrussington Village loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Rearsby, MTB Trails around Rearsby, and Running Trails around Rearsby guides.
Are there accessible paths for wheelchairs or pushchairs around the lakes?
Yes, John Merrick's Lake in Watermead Country Park features the 'Red Route', which consists of hard-surfaced paths that are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. These paths are also shared with cyclists, making it a versatile option for various visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Rearsby?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer are ideal for open water swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the full bloom of nature and wildlife. Autumn offers beautiful scenery with changing foliage, while winter can provide peaceful, crisp walks, especially around lakes like Swithland Reservoir or Watermead Country Park.
Are there any cafes or facilities near the lakes?
Yes, some lakes offer facilities. Racehub Lake has a fantastic bike shop and cafe serving coffee, cakes, and sports nutrition. Shearsby Valley Lakes features a licensed cafe and a tackle shop. Frisby Lakes also has a cafe on-site. For other lakes, you might find cafes or pubs in nearby villages, or at larger parks like Bradgate Park near Cropston Reservoir.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Rearsby?
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquil scenery, the opportunities for wildlife observation, and the variety of outdoor activities available. The komoot community has upvoted the lakes around Rearsby 64 times and shared 50 photos, highlighting the area's natural beauty and recreational appeal. Specific highlights like Swithland Reservoir are enjoyed for their views over the water and the passing vintage railway.
Can I find historical information about the lakes?
Yes, some lakes have interesting historical backgrounds. Swithland Reservoir was built around 1896. Cropston Reservoir was established in 1867, with much of the land purchased from the Bradgate Estate. Cossington Meadows Nature Reserve was once a gravel quarry in the 1980s and 90s before being transformed into a nature reserve.
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