Top 16 Lakes around Croft
Best lakes around Croft are primarily man-made bodies of water, including flashes formed by mining subsidence and enlarged reservoirs. This area features a landscape shaped by industrial history, now offering natural habitats and recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore a variety of lakes that serve as nature reserves, fishing spots, and locations for watersports. The region provides numerous walking trails and viewpoints, allowing for exploration of its unique natural features.
Best lakes around Croft
- The most popular lakes is Scotman's Flash…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Scotman's Flash
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Carr Mill Dam
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Lymm Village and Pond
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Lymm Dam
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Moore Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
Small parking lot for a walk through the Moore Nature Reserve with an information board about the wildlife found in the nature reserve.
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The reserve was created from an area that consisted of sandstone quarries and farmland. It is managed by FCC Environment. It is 81 hectares in size. It is located near the Manchester Ship Canal. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moore_Nature_Reserve
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I've only just moved to this area. It's so beautiful for me and my dog for our local walk.
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If you go down to the sunken garden between Sextons and the flower shop, you'll see the force of the water from the lower dam into Slitten Brook, and it flows into the Bridgewater canal
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A Flash is a unique industrial legacy to Wigan and there are many around the Wigan area. Each are lakes formed as a result of mining subsidence. Scotsmans flash the largest of the “Wigan Flashes” is a designated site of scientific interest. This is due to the abundance of rare plant species, several species of orchid, extensive reed beds and migrating birds such as Reed and Sedge Warbler. Scotsmans flash is a beautiful place for a stop to enjoy the views.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Croft?
The lakes around Croft are primarily man-made, including 'flashes' formed by mining subsidence and enlarged reservoirs. These bodies of water now offer diverse environments for nature observation, water activities, and walking.
Are there opportunities for water sports on the lakes?
Yes, Scotman's Flash is a popular location for water sports, including canoeing, sailing, and kayaking. It offers courses and qualifications for various skill levels.
Which lakes are suitable for family visits?
Several lakes are family-friendly. Scotman's Flash, Carr Mill Dam, Lymm Dam, and Pennington Flash all offer amenities and activities suitable for families, such as walking trails and scenic views.
Can I go hiking or walking around the lakes?
Absolutely. Many lakes, like Carr Mill Dam and Pennington Flash, have trails around their edges, providing excellent walking opportunities. You can find various hiking routes in the area, including easy loops from Birchwood and Culcheth. For more options, explore the Hiking around Croft guide.
Are the lakes dog-friendly?
Yes, Carr Mill Dam is noted as dog-friendly, and Scotman's Flash is also suitable for dog walkers with its scenic trails. Many of the walking paths around the flashes and reservoirs are suitable for dogs.
What kind of wildlife or natural features can I observe?
Scotman's Flash is a designated site of scientific interest due to its rare plant species, including several types of orchid, extensive reed beds, and migrating birds like Reed and Sedge Warblers. The flashes, being formed from mining subsidence, have created unique natural habitats.
Are there cycling routes near the lakes?
Yes, the area offers several cycling routes. Lymm Dam is a good starting point for bike trips, with routes to Warrington being particularly pleasant. You can find more cycling options in the Cycling around Croft guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Croft guide.
What is the historical significance of the lakes around Croft?
Many of the lakes, particularly the 'flashes' like Scotman's Flash and Pennington Flash, are a unique industrial legacy, formed in depressions caused by mining subsidence. Carr Mill Dam was historically enlarged to supply water to navigation and railway systems.
Are there any cafes or amenities near the lakes?
Yes, near Lymm Dam, there is a caravan cafe that serves good food, and the nearby town of Lymm offers quaint restaurants and pubs. Lymm Village itself has a great tearoom.
What are the best lakes for fishing?
Carr Mill Dam is a popular fishing lake. Additionally, the region research indicates that Croft Lakes Holiday Park (near Skegness, if you are referring to that specific 'Croft') has an exclusive owners' fishing lake.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Croft?
Visitors appreciate the unique blend of industrial history and natural beauty. The transformation of mining subsidence areas into beautiful nature reserves and country parks, offering opportunities for walking, water sports, and wildlife observation, is highly valued. The picturesque settings and accessible trails are also frequently praised.
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