Top 7 Lakes around Burton-On-Yore
Best lakes around Burton-On-Yore. Burton-on-Yore is a civil parish in North Yorkshire, located across the River Ure from Masham. While prominent natural lakes are not found directly within the parish, the surrounding area features several notable water bodies. These include ornamental lakes within historic gardens, functional reservoirs, and scenic river sections.
Best lakes around Burton-On-Yore
- The most popular lakes is Lake at Studley Royal Water Garden, a natural monument that is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
Lumley Moor Reservoir
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Hackfall Fountain Pond
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Roundhill Reservoir Dam
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Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park
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The gardens are stunning with atypical, some certainly …
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Grewelthorpe Village Pond
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Lumley Moor was built to release water, not just store it. Victorian waterworks often reduced natural river flow. When towns like Ripon began abstracting water from upland streams, they risked lowering summer flows, affecting mills downstream, killing fish and breaching riparian rights (a big legal issue for Victorians). So water authorities were legally required to put water back into the river to compensate for what they took out. Same as Gouthwaite Reservoir but on a much smaller scale, this is a type of compensation reservoir.
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Grewelthorpe is around 3 miles South of Masham and 6 miles North of Ripon. It hosts an ancient 12th-century church and the nearby Hackfall Woods
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The small dam was originally built for the city of Ripon. These days, it belongs to Yorkshire Water. Paths go essentially around all of it, making for a very pleasant walk.
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Please note that the Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park is temporarily closed at present, but will reopen on the 18th April 2024. The gardens are stunning with atypical, some certainly "Himalayan" sculptures and art, massive amount of fabulous flowers, a couple of lakes, beautiful paths and, yes, you guessed it, a tearoom! Obviously, none of stuff like this is for free, so check the Garden's website for entry fees and more information: https://www.himalayangarden.com/
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There is a valve tower here on the dam on the Roundhill Reservoir (the larger Leighton Reservoir to the north-east). The dam was built by the town of Harrogate between 1903 and 1911. The water was pumped from here to Harlow Hill in Harrogate.
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The fountain pond in Hackfall Forest is well worth finding. The fountain works from a hand pump that you must pressurize yourself. There is an information board and example of the old wooden pipes that used to carry water to the pond and fountain. There is also a small folly close by.
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A stunning garden, with some unusual and interesting Sculptures. One of the highlights of our holiday and highly recommended.
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Lovely garden and sculpture trail hidden in a steep valley. Reasonable climb up from Ripon. But once you get there you can refresh at the cafe and have a wander through the trees, enter Himalayan huts, spot sculptures and chill by the lakes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of water features can I explore around Burton-on-Yore?
While prominent natural lakes are not directly within Burton-on-Yore, the surrounding area offers a variety of water features. You can find ornamental lakes within historic gardens, functional reservoirs, and scenic river sections. Notable examples include the 18th-century water garden at Lake at Studley Royal Water Garden, the functional Roundhill Reservoir Dam, and the River Ure which borders the parish.
Are there family-friendly lakes or water features near Burton-on-Yore?
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. The Lake at Studley Royal Water Garden is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ornamental lakes and a deer park. Hackfall Fountain Pond in Hackfall Forest offers a unique hand-pumped fountain experience. The Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park also features lakes, sculptures, and a tearoom, making it a great family outing.
What historical sites are associated with the lakes in this region?
The Lake at Studley Royal Water Garden is a significant historical site, being part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the ruins of Fountains Abbey. This 18th-century water garden features classical follies and ornamental lakes. Additionally, the Roundhill Reservoir Dam, built between 1903 and 1911, has a historical connection to Harrogate's water supply.
Are there opportunities for walking or hiking near the lakes?
Yes, the area offers various walking and hiking opportunities. For easy walks, you can explore the paths around Lumley Moor Reservoir. Hackfall Wood, home to Hackfall Fountain Pond, features scenic woodland trails with streams and waterfalls. You can find more detailed hiking routes in the Easy hikes around Burton-On-Yore guide.
Can I go fishing at any of the lakes?
Yes, Leighton Reservoir, located near Masham in the surrounding area, is known as a place where visitors can enjoy fly fishing. Specific details about other fishing spots should be checked locally.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The Lake at Studley Royal Water Garden is part of a medieval deer park where herds of red, fallow, and sika deer roam freely. The River Ure and Hackfall Wood also provide habitats for various birds and other local wildlife, making them good spots for nature observation.
Are there any cafes or refreshment options near the lakes?
Yes, the Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park, which features several lakes, has a tearoom where visitors can refresh. For other locations, it's advisable to check nearby towns like Masham for dining options.
What other outdoor activities are available near the lakes around Burton-on-Yore?
Beyond hiking, the region offers excellent opportunities for cycling. You can find various routes for road cycling and mountain biking. Explore options in the Road Cycling Routes around Burton-On-Yore and MTB Trails around Burton-On-Yore guides.
Is there public transport access to the lakes?
Public transport access to specific, more remote lakes can be limited. It is generally recommended to check local bus services or plan for car travel to reach many of the water features and attractions around Burton-on-Yore.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots worth visiting?
Hackfall Wood, with its Hackfall Fountain Pond, streams, and waterfalls, is often considered a hidden gem. Its blend of natural water features and woodland trails offers a picturesque and explorable environment away from more crowded areas.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Burton-on-Yore?
Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the gardens and walking trails, with flowers in bloom at places like the Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, especially in wooded areas like Hackfall. Winter walks can also be serene, particularly around reservoirs like Lumley Moor Reservoir, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
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