Top 13 Lakes around West Bretton
Best lakes around West Bretton are a significant natural feature of this village in West Yorkshire, England. The area is known for the scenic Bretton Lakes, formed by the damming of the River Dearne within Bretton Park. These lakes, including an Upper Lake, are part of the Bretton Lakes Nature Reserve, providing habitat for various bird species and fish. The lakes are integrated with the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, offering visitors a blend of natural environment and art installations.
Best lakes…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Newmillerdam Lake
Highlight • Natural Monument
The dam was built …
Tip by
Pugneys Country Park Lake
Highlight • Rest Area
Toilets are open too
Pugneys Country Park is a 250-acre park located on the A636 between Wakefield, West Yorkshire, England …
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Cold Hiendley Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Stanley Marsh Local Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural
The Marsh was once …
Tip by
Ingbirchworth Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
During very dry …
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around West Bretton.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
I expect this was for charity but there a lots of them loose from Jurassic Park lol
0
0
This is vast and looks great as you get over the little bridge
0
0
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.
0
0
Newmiller Dam is the lake created by the dam for the new mill :-) The village is called Newmillerdam as in New Mill on the Dam. The dam was built to provide a lake and therefore power to the mills owned by the Pashley family just south of Wakefield. The lake and surrounding area is now a nature reserve owned and managed by Wakefield Council. The lake has a well surfaced path all around it, suitable mostly for pushchairs and wheelchairs as well as kids on bikes. It's a popular place and fun for a short walk.
0
0
The road here passes along the damn wall of Ingbirchworth Reservoir giving great views across the water. It is a popular spot for bird watching and fishing. During very dry spells and drought, the bridge over the river that was dammed can be seen emerging from the water, Summer Ford Bridge.
1
0
This area was once fields but shallow flooding occurred after the Second World War due to the clogging up of surface water drains and mining subsidence. The Marsh was once part of the multi-pit Victoria Colliery which had working shafts between Outwood and Stanley Ferry. The pit here was sunk about 1835 and was known locally as Deep Drop Pit. It had its own pumping engine whose foundations can still be seen. A colliery railway passed through the site between 1837 and approximately 1840 and can be seen today as the embankment. The colliery closed in 1896. On 4 March 1879 while 250 men and 36 horses were at work, there was a large explosion which killed 21 men and boys.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the lakes around West Bretton a special place to visit?
The lakes around West Bretton are unique because they are integrated with the historic Yorkshire Sculpture Park, offering a blend of natural beauty and art installations. They are also part of the Bretton Lakes Nature Reserve, providing a habitat for various bird species and fish, making them popular for birdwatching and angling. The area is particularly scenic in autumn.
Are there accessible trails around the lakes for pushchairs or wheelchairs?
Yes, Newmillerdam Lake offers a well-surfaced path all around it, which is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. It's a popular and accessible location for short, easy walks.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
You can expect to see diverse natural features, including forests, rivers, and nature reserves. The Bretton Lakes Nature Reserve is home to various bird species like swans, ducks, and herons, and also supports several fish species. Highlights like Stanley Marsh Local Nature Reserve also offer insights into the area's natural and historical landscape.
Are the lakes around West Bretton suitable for families with children?
Many lakes in the area are family-friendly. For example, Newmillerdam Lake has flat ground and minimal stones, making it easy for pushchairs and children. Pugneys Country Park Lake is another great option with facilities and open spaces for families.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, road cycling, and running. There are numerous routes available, such as easy walks around Bretton Country Park, moderate road cycling loops from Darton, and running trails around Newmillerdam Lake. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for hiking, road cycling, and running around West Bretton.
Where can I find parking near the lakes?
Parking is available at several locations. Pugneys Country Park Lake has dedicated parking facilities. For Newmillerdam Lake, there are disabled parking spots and wide entrances to the paths, indicating general parking availability nearby.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks near the lakes?
Yes, the lakes are closely associated with the historic Bretton Hall estate, which dates back to the 18th century. The Yorkshire Sculpture Park, located on these grounds, features numerous art installations. Additionally, Stanley Marsh Local Nature Reserve has historical significance as a former colliery site, with foundations of a pumping engine and an old colliery railway embankment still visible.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around West Bretton?
The area is particularly picturesque in the autumn when the changing leaves create a stunning natural tapestry. However, the well-maintained paths around lakes like Newmillerdam Lake make them enjoyable for walks year-round, including winter.
Can I go birdwatching or fishing at the lakes?
Yes, the Bretton Lakes, including an Upper Lake, are part of a nature reserve known for providing a habitat for various bird species, making them a popular spot for birdwatching. They are also home to several species of fish, attracting anglers. Ingbirchworth Reservoir is specifically noted as a popular spot for both birdwatching and fishing.
Are there cafes or pubs near the lakes?
Yes, Pugneys Country Park Lake has a cafe on-site. While specific pubs are not detailed, the general area around West Bretton and nearby villages would offer options for refreshments after your walk.
What is the typical terrain and difficulty of walking trails around the lakes?
The terrain varies, but many popular routes, such as the path around Newmillerdam Lake, are well-surfaced and relatively flat, making them easy. Other trails, especially those venturing into woodlands or around reservoirs like Cold Hiendley Reservoir, can range from intermediate to challenging, offering diverse options for different fitness levels.
Most popular routes around West Bretton
Most popular attractions around West Bretton
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around West Bretton? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
