Top 12 Lakes around Colne
Best lakes around Colne are primarily reservoirs that supply water to the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and local towns. The area is characterized by picturesque landscapes, often featuring views of Pendle Hill and surrounding countryside. These water bodies offer various recreational opportunities, including walking, birdwatching, and mountain biking. Colne's location in Lancashire provides access to a network of trails connecting these reservoirs.
Best lakes around Colne
- The most popular lakes is Lower Ogden Reservoir, a lake that was built in the early 1900s to supply water to the surrounding area. The track to the north can be linked with footpaths to the south for a loop around the reservoir or an extension to Upper Ogden Reservoir.
- Another must-see spot is Cant Clough Reservoir, a viewpoint. This location offers views back towards the windfarm at Bent's Pasture, often encountered during longer routes like the Mary Towneley Loop.
- Visitors also love Hurstwood Reservoir, an mtb_park. It features swoopy mountain bike trails that provide entertainment for riders, with a carpark available nearby.
- Colne is known for its reservoirs, which serve as lakes, viewpoints, and mountain biking areas. The region offers a variety of water bodies to see and explore, catering to different outdoor activities.
- The lakes around Colne are appreciated by the komoot community, with 92 upvotes and 28 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Hurstwood Reservoir
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Lower Ogden Reservoir
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Lower Gorple Reservoir Descent
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Cant Clough Reservoir
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Ogden Reservoirs
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Tips from the Community
Amazing reservoir and amazing to see the reflection of the trees and hills in the water on a quiet day.
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Water runs off the great whaleback of Pendle Hill, cascading down Ogden Clough and Boar Clough to reach the Ogden Reservoirs. Built to supply drinking water to nearby Nelson, the trails around the reservoirs are a delight and are often explored by those on the way up Pendle Hill. There are three plantations here too, including Fell Wood, with its spruces, pines and larches.
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Lower Ogden Reservoir was built in the early 1900's to supply water to the surrounding area. The track to the north can be linked with footpaths to the south so that you can run around the reservoir from Barley. You can also extend the run and take in Upper Ogden Reservoir or use this as the start or finishing section for a brilliant loop of Pendle Hill.
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Lower Ogden Reservoir was built in the early 1900's to supply water to the surrounding area.
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Was there a week ago and the bottom half of the trail has been ruined by the weather and hooligan trail builders. i would give it a miss.
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If you're feeling spectacularly energetic, just west of the dam here there are some swoopy mountain bike trails. They're not long - just over a mile, but they can provide some welcome entertainment. Although there's a carpark at the other end of them, there are no facilities, so bring plenty of food and water. As an aside, though, the trails are also excellent for younger kids to earn their mountain biking stripes on.
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If you're riding the Mary Towneley Loop clockwise, you'll likely be slightly tired by now. This is a view back south towards the windfarm at Bent's Pasture. There's a steep push and a long descent to Hurstwood Reservoir, but there's still quite a way to go yet!
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Open, spectacular, and - if you've the nerve for it, very fast and drifty. It's definitely better as a descent than a climb - more because of what's to come rather than the quality of the trail itself. Be careful not to overcook the corners; it's super-easy to wash your front wheel out, and in Yorkshire the penalties for error are painful and gritty!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for walking and enjoying nature around Colne?
For scenic walks and nature, Foulridge Lower Reservoir (also known as Lake Burwain) is highly recommended. It offers a 2-mile circular walk with panoramic views, benches, and excellent birdwatching opportunities, including Great Crested Grebe and Mandarin Duck. The Lower Ogden Reservoir also provides beautiful trails that can be linked with footpaths for a loop or extended to Upper Ogden Reservoir.
Are there family-friendly lakes near Colne?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. The circular walk around Foulridge Lower Reservoir is manageable for families with young children. The trails around the Ogden Reservoirs are also a delight and are often explored by those on the way up Pendle Hill, offering a pleasant natural setting for all ages.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Colne?
The lakes around Colne offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, birdwatching, and sailing at Foulridge Lower Reservoir. For mountain biking, Hurstwood Reservoir features swoopy trails. The wider area also provides numerous routes for different sports. For more ideas, explore the MTB Trails around Colne, Gravel biking around Colne, and Running Trails around Colne guides.
Which lakes are best for birdwatching?
Foulridge Lower Reservoir is a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with species like Great Crested Grebe, Mallard, and Mandarin Duck. Foulridge Upper Reservoir is particularly appealing during winter months, serving as a major wintering site for Lapwing, with over 1000 birds recorded, and large numbers of Canada Geese.
Are there any historical aspects to the reservoirs near Colne?
Yes, Foulridge Lower Reservoir is the oldest and largest of the Foulridge reservoirs, constructed in 1793 to supply water to the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. Foulridge Upper Reservoir was also built later in 1865 for the same purpose. The Ogden Reservoirs were constructed in the early 1900s to provide drinking water to nearby Nelson.
Can I combine a lake walk with a longer hiking route?
Absolutely. A loop trail of approximately 10.1 km (6.3 miles) from Colne combines Lake Burwain (Foulridge Lower Reservoir) and Slipper Hill Reservoir, offering an easy graded hike. The trails around the Ogden Reservoirs can also be incorporated into longer routes, especially if you plan to explore Pendle Hill.
What is unique about Cant Clough Reservoir?
Cant Clough Reservoir offers a viewpoint with views back towards the windfarm at Bent's Pasture. It's often encountered during longer routes like the Mary Towneley Loop, providing a scenic break for those on more challenging rides or hikes.
Are there any challenging trails or descents near the lakes?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Lower Gorple Reservoir Descent is described as open, spectacular, and very fast. It's recommended as a descent rather than a climb due to its nature, requiring careful handling of corners to avoid washing out your front wheel.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Colne?
Visitors appreciate the picturesque landscapes, the variety of recreational opportunities, and the tranquility. The circular walks, birdwatching, and the views of Pendle Hill are frequently praised. The komoot community has shared 28 photos and given 92 upvotes, highlighting the area's appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Is there mountain biking available at any of the reservoirs?
Yes, Hurstwood Reservoir is known for its swoopy mountain bike trails. While some parts of the trail have been impacted by weather, it remains a popular spot for riders looking for entertainment. There's a carpark available nearby for convenience.
Can I access the Leeds and Liverpool Canal from the lakes area?
Yes, both Foulridge Lower and Upper Reservoirs were built to supply water to the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. The canal itself, particularly near Foulridge Tunnel, offers pleasant walks and opportunities to observe wildlife and canal boats. The tunnel is notable for being the longest in the country that allows kayakers and canoers to pass through.
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