Top 7 Lakes around Broughton East
Best lakes around Broughton East offers a diverse landscape for outdoor exploration. This region features a mix of natural lakes, tarns, and reservoirs, providing various opportunities for visitors. The area is characterized by its natural beauty, including forest and coastal views. It serves as a point of interest for those seeking natural environments within the Lake District vicinity.
Best lakes around Broughton East
- The most popular lakes is High Dam Lake, a lake that is also a reservoir. It…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Lakeside Pier and Steam Railway, Lake Windermere
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Hawes Water
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Bigland Tarn
Highlight • Natural
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Leighton Moss Nature Reserve
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High Dam Lake
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Tips from the Community
A visit to the reserve is highly recommended. However, there is now an entry fee: £5 for cyclists.
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Popular with day trippers getting the ferry
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I think Kenny's above tip refers to the Hawes Water in the Lake District.
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Hawes Water, sometimes called Hawes Tarn on the Gait Barrows National Nature Reserve is one of only two natural fresh-water lakes in Lancashire, along with Marton Mere. Unlike its big namesake in the Lake District it is a small lake but quite deep at 30 metres. Great centre for both birdlife and insects.
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Hawes water, positioned as the easternmost lake within the Lake District, serves a crucial role as a reservoir. In 1940, the eastern side of the lake was dammed, resulting in the flooding of Mardale valley and the submersion of the village of Mardale. During periods of drought, the submerged village resurfaces, a highly anticipated event cherished by both locals and visitors.
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Be careful of ticks here! My dog got absolutely covered in ticks at this Tarn. Have since removed 10 from his skin. We stopped here for less than 3 minutes and could see them crawling over him :( honestly never seen anything like it.
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You could say that Lakeside is mainly the extravagant but really welcoming hotel, the historic steam railway journey into the Leven Valley (lakesiderailway.co.uk/about-lakeside-haverthwaite ), as well as the pier and boat terminal to get across Lake Windermere. It's popular with day-trippers and you can't blame them as it's such an idyllic part of the lake.
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Just to the east of the Leven Estuary, Bigland Tarn is a lovely place to take a picnic. There are views to the Coniston Fells, whilst the surrounding land makes for some lovely rural ambles. Nearby Bigland Barrow is one of Wainwright's Outlying Fells and offers splendid views from the lockout tower on its summit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly lakes around Broughton East?
Yes, several lakes in the area are suitable for families. High Dam Lake is a popular swimming area with clear water, great for a picnic. Hawes Water is also family-friendly, and Leighton Moss Nature Reserve offers a visitor centre, shop, and tea room, along with observation hides for wildlife spotting.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Broughton East?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous options for road cycling, touring cycling, and hiking. Explore routes like those found in the Road Cycling Routes around Broughton East guide, or discover easy walks in the Easy hikes around Broughton East guide.
Where can I go for wild swimming near Broughton East?
For wild swimming, High Dam Lake is a fantastic option. It's known for its beautifully clear water, though it can be cold, so take care.
Are there dog-friendly lakes or walks in the area?
Yes, Bigland Tarn is noted as dog-friendly and offers lovely rural ambles. However, visitors should be aware of ticks in this area and check their dogs carefully after walks.
What natural features can I expect to see around Broughton East's lakes?
The area is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy forest views around High Dam Lake, expansive coastal views across Morecambe Bay from viewpoints like Estuary and Clifftop Views of Morecambe Bay, and diverse saltmarsh habitats with rare wildlife at Leighton Moss Nature Reserve.
Are there any lakes with unique historical or natural phenomena?
Hawes Water, the easternmost lake in the Lake District, is notable for its role as a reservoir. During periods of drought, the submerged village of Mardale, flooded in 1940, occasionally resurfaces, which is a highly anticipated event.
What kind of wildlife can be seen at the lakes?
At Leighton Moss Nature Reserve, you can spot rare and beautiful wildlife such as bitterns, red deer, and Greylag geese hiding amongst the reed beds. The reserve is run by the RSPB and has observation hides for viewing.
Are there any less crowded lakes or hidden gems to explore?
While specific 'hidden' lakes aren't detailed, the Estuary and Clifftop Views of Morecambe Bay area is described as an 'underrated route' and 'so quiet and beautiful', suggesting a less crowded experience with stunning scenery.
What are some good spots for a picnic near the lakes?
High Dam Lake is highlighted as a great place for a picnic. Additionally, Bigland Tarn is described as a lovely spot to take a picnic, offering views to the Coniston Fells.
Are there cafes or facilities near the lakes?
Yes, Leighton Moss Nature Reserve has a visitor centre with a shop and a tea room, providing facilities for visitors. Please note there is an entry fee for the reserve.
Can I find easy hiking trails around the lakes?
Absolutely. There are several easy hiking trails available. You can find detailed routes in the Easy hikes around Broughton East guide, which includes options like the Cartmel Village and Stream loop or walks to Hampsfell Hospice Viewpoint.
What are the best viewpoints to capture the scenery?
For expansive and stunning scenery, the Estuary and Clifftop Views of Morecambe Bay offer incredible landscapes, especially when the tide is out. Bigland Tarn also provides lovely views towards the Coniston Fells.
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