Best lakes around North Elmsall are situated in an area known for its accessible water bodies and natural landscapes. The region offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation, with several notable lakes and reservoirs nearby. These water features contribute to the local environment, providing habitats for wildlife and spaces for public enjoyment. The landscape around North Elmsall includes former industrial sites transformed into green spaces, offering a blend of natural and rewilded areas.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
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Cafe and toilets here as well as parking and children’s play area
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This is vast and looks great as you get over the little bridge
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Haw Park Wood is located just outside Wakefield and is a lovely blend of mature trees and wildflowers. There are also lakes, a stream, and plenty of picnic benches to sit down and rest.
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Cold Hiendley Reservoir was constructed at the beginning of the 20th century to supply water to the growing city of Wakefield. The dam had to be strengthened in 1990. This is a popular fishing reservoir with large carp. There is a nice trail around the edge and the Trans Pennine Trail follows the Barnsley Canal path past the dam.
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Nice walk to take younger kids on, especially if they like Room on the Broom as there are wood carvings of characters from the book that tell the story as you go around the lake.
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Highfields Lake is an ornamental lake in the Woodlands wildlife park at Highfields. It is filled by the Pick Burn, which then flows on to join the River Don as Bentley Mill Stream. The lake was originally built by the owners of Woodlands, a country house that lent its name to the model village built for the miners of Brodsworth Colliery. https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Highfields_Lake
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For a family-friendly outing, Anglers Country Park Lake is an excellent choice. It features a circular path that is wheelchair and pushchair-friendly, a cafe, an adventure playground, and a fun 'Room on the Broom' themed trail with sculptures for younger visitors. Haw Park Wood also offers a pleasant environment with picnic benches and nature to explore.
Yes, Anglers Country Park Lake offers a 2-mile (3.6 km) circular path that is specifically designed to be wheelchair and pushchair-friendly, ensuring accessibility for all visitors. Wintersett Reservoir also has a 7 km (4.35 miles) loop trail with minimal elevation gain, suitable for accessible walks.
The lakes near North Elmsall are rich in wildlife. At Cold Hiendley Reservoir and Walton Nature Reserve Lake, you can often spot swans. Anglers Country Park Lake is known for its diverse birdlife, especially migratory birds, with several bird hides available for observation. The upcoming South Elmsall Wastewater Wetland is also designed to attract a wide array of wildlife, including pollinators, breeding birds, amphibians, and reptiles.
Anglers Country Park Lake has a visitor center with a cafe and toilets, making it convenient for longer visits. It also offers parking and a children's play area.
Absolutely. Anglers Country Park Lake is a popular birdwatching spot, featuring several bird hides for observing diverse wildlife, including migratory birds. Wintersett Reservoir, adjacent to Anglers Country Park, is also a haven for birdwatchers.
Cold Hiendley Reservoir is highly appreciated for its very nice views and scenic qualities. Wintersett Reservoir offers a 7 km loop trail with scenic views, passing through woodlands. Walton Nature Reserve Lake is also described as a beautiful spot to look around.
Yes, the area offers various cycling opportunities. You can find routes like the 'Highfields Lake – Traffic-Free Section of NCN62 loop' which passes by Highfields Lake. For more cycling options, explore the 'Cycling around North Elmsall' guide at komoot.com/guide/2761692/cycling-around-north-elmsall or the 'Road Cycling Routes around North Elmsall' guide at komoot.com/guide/2761691/road-cycling-routes-around-north-elmsall.
Yes, there are several easy hiking trails. For instance, you can find routes like the 'Lake at Frickley Park – Frickley Country Park Summit loop from South Elmsall'. For a comprehensive list of easy hikes in the region, check out the 'Easy hikes around North Elmsall' guide at komoot.com/guide/3597119/easy-hikes-around-north-elmsall.
The South Elmsall Wastewater Wetland is an innovative project nearing completion by 2026. It will feature 30,000m² of interconnected ponds, extensively planted to naturally treat storm flows and enhance local biodiversity. Public access is planned via a diverted public right of way, offering a unique opportunity to experience ecological restoration and enjoy nature.
Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquil settings, the opportunities for wildlife spotting, and the well-maintained paths for walking and cycling. The family-friendly amenities at places like Anglers Country Park Lake, including cafes and playgrounds, are also highly appreciated. Many also value the scenic views and the chance to see swans at locations like Cold Hiendley Reservoir.
Yes, Wintersett Reservoir is adjacent to Anglers Country Park Lake, and both are interconnected with other local trails, including those in Haw Park Wood. This connectivity makes it easy to combine trips to explore multiple locations and extend your outdoor experience.


Still not found your perfect lake around North Elmsall? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.