Top 5 Lakes around South Hetton
Best lakes around South Hetton are found in its surrounding areas, notably at Hetton Lyons Country Park. This region features a landscape shaped by its industrial past, now transformed into green spaces with various water bodies. The area provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, including walking, cycling, and water sports, making it a local hub for nature and activity.
Best lakes around South Hetton
- The most popular lakes is Model Boating Lake, Herrington Country Park, an other natural feature that…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
Model Boating Lake, Herrington Country Park
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Hetton Lyons Lake
Highlight • Rest Area
It has a cafe based in the Springboard Adventure centre.
It was once the site of …
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Low Newton Junction Nature Reserve
Highlight (Segment) • Natural
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Brasside Pond
Highlight • Lake
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Mount Pleasant Lake Wooden Dock
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tips from the Community
The Model Boating Lake in Herrington Country Park is a charming feature of the park that offers a unique recreational space for model boating enthusiasts. The lake is surrounded by lush scenery and has plenty of picnic spaces and benches.
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Hetton Lyons Country Park is a pretty park centred around a water sports lake. It has a cafe based in the Springboard Adventure centre. It was once the site of a coal mine, operating for almost 130 years. The colliery closed in 1950.
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There’s quite a few of these fishing jetties within the trees. Beautiful little spots to sit and chill when there isn’t people fishing.
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Hidden away next to the prison, two large ponds created by flooding old clay pits. Important wildfowl breeding spot.
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Brasside Pond is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Two large ponds, the result of flooding of old clay pits. Important breeding site for wildfowl.
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Park at the small car park accessed by Frankland Lane which runs adjacent to HMP Frankland. Taking the top path, you get superb views of Durham Cathedral and there is also a vantage point over the East Coast Mainline (train). This is accessed by a set of steps adjacent to the lake which is approximately half way along the top path.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What activities can I do at the lakes near South Hetton?
The lakes around South Hetton, particularly at Hetton Lyons Country Park, offer a variety of activities. You can enjoy water sports like canoeing, kayaking, and open water swimming at the dedicated water sports lake. Fishing is popular at Stephensons Lake (day tickets available) and Lyons Lake (members-only). The park also features well-maintained paths ideal for walking and cycling, a play area, and an orienteering course.
Are there family-friendly lakes around South Hetton?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Hetton Lyons Lake within Hetton Lyons Country Park is very family-friendly, offering a play area, cycling routes, and a cafe. Model Boating Lake, Herrington Country Park also provides picnic spaces and benches in a lush setting. Low Newton Junction Nature Reserve and Brasside Pond are also suitable for family outings to observe nature.
Where can I go for a walk around the lakes?
Hetton Lyons Country Park offers well-maintained paths around its lakes, suitable for leisurely walks. For more extensive hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Hetton Lyons Lake loop from Hetton-le-Hole' which is a moderate 11.6 km trail. You can find more hiking options in the area by visiting the Hiking around South Hetton guide.
Are dogs allowed at the lakes?
Hetton Lyons Country Park is generally dog-friendly, with many visitors enjoying walks with their pets on the designated paths. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially around wildlife and other visitors, and to clean up after them.
Is there parking available near the lakes?
Yes, Hetton Lyons Country Park has parking facilities available for visitors. For Low Newton Junction Nature Reserve, there is a small car park accessed via Frankland Lane.
Can I go cycling around the lakes?
Absolutely. Hetton Lyons Country Park features paths suitable for cycling and is part of the national cycling network. You can find various cycling routes in the area, including the 'Wind Farm Trail – Hetton Lyons Lake loop'. For more cycling adventures, check out the Cycling around South Hetton guide.
Are there cafes or refreshments available near the lakes?
Yes, at Hetton Lyons Country Park, you'll find The Lakes Cafe, which provides refreshments. Hetton Lyons Lake also has a cafe based in the Springboard Adventure centre.
What kind of fish can I expect to catch in the fishing lakes?
At Hetton Lyons Country Park, Stephensons Lake is stocked with a variety of fish including Carp, Tench, Bream, Roach, Rudd, Perch, Gudgeon, and Eel. Lyons Lake, intended for more experienced anglers, is stocked with carp that can weigh up to 23lb+.
What is the terrain like for walking around the lakes?
The terrain around Hetton Lyons Country Park's lakes is generally well-maintained with paths suitable for walking and cycling, making it accessible for most visitors. For Low Newton Junction Nature Reserve, there are paths, including a top path offering views, and steps adjacent to the lake.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots around the lakes?
Yes, Mount Pleasant Lake Wooden Dock offers beautiful little spots with fishing jetties within the trees, perfect for sitting and relaxing. Low Newton Junction Nature Reserve provides superb views of Durham Cathedral from its top path.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near South Hetton?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but the spring and summer months offer the best weather for water sports, picnics, and extended walks. Autumn provides picturesque scenery with changing foliage, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Can I do wild swimming in any of the lakes?
Hetton Lyons Country Park has a dedicated water sports lake that hosts open water swimming activities run by Springboard Adventure. It is recommended to participate in organized sessions for safety rather than attempting unsupervised wild swimming in other lakes.
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