Best lakes around Croston are found in the rural landscape of Lancashire, England, a region characterized by its scenic charm and the River Yarrow. While large natural lakes are not directly within the village, the surrounding area offers various water bodies. These include country park lakes, wetland centres, and historical mill ponds, providing diverse natural attractions for visitors.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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Yarrow Valley Country Park was first established in 1987 on land previously used for bleaching, dyeing, calico printing, and mining. Once industrial activity had ended, the site lay derelict for 30 years until the late 1980's when Chorley Council acquired the site. Yarrow Valley Country Park, a 700-acre facility run by Chorley Council, includes a café (treeface) built using Heritage Lottery funds. There is a play area for children, with a dog protection order, and also an angling agreement at Yarrow Valley Country Park, which gives the fishing rights at Birkacre to Wigan & District Angling Association (WDAA). Yarrow Valley Country Park has been awarded Green Flag status since 2004. The 'park' is used by (dog) walkers, runners & cyclists. Share with care :)
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Green route, make sure follow the map as we didn’t and got lost
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This park has so much to offer beautiful lakes waterfalls many different routes which is great for the kids and dog walkers
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The cycle route N55 passes through Cuerden, a lovely traffic free route, easy on any bike imo, I use a gravelbike. It can get very busy, and as a cyclist, you'll need to be vigilant of the many dogs that are let off lead. I'm not sure if there's a public space order here, as there are in most parks.
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650 acres of green oasis for you to explore, discover and relax in, with the River Lostock meandering through; close to junction 29 of the M6, between Preston and Chorley; The Park is owned and managed by Cuerden Valley Park Trust
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Cuerden Valley Park is a precious emerald surrounded by increasing urban development. As a country park it is differently managed from places such as Witton Park and Beacon Fell
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Worden Park As well as offering more than 60 hectares of meadows, woodlands and playing fields, Worden Park also includes a range of attractions in its historic grounds. Situated on the outskirts of Leyland, the park is less than a quarter of a mile from the town centre. The park has held the Green Flag Award since the scheme began in 1997, the only site north of London to have done so. It has a beautiful pond to stop at very pieceful in the morning.
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Cuerden Valley Park is a precious emerald surrounded by increasing urban development. As a country park it is differently managed from places such as Witton Park and Beacon Fell being run by a trust rather than a local authority. Its 650 acres were originally part of the estate of Cuerden Hall one time home of the Towneley Parker family. (Cuerden Hall )It is thanks to the Trust and the voluntary effort of a friends group that Cuerden Valley Park has managed to withstand the pressures of modern life to offer a haven for wildlife and a place for people to exercise and relax. Broadly the park is a green corridor between Wigan Road (A49) and the A6 running north to south following the course of the River Lostock for about 2 ½ miles. At its widest it is about half a mile. It has a beautiful pond with plenty of wildlife and fish the path can get a little bumpyso gravel or MTB would be best.
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The area around Croston, while not home to many large natural lakes directly within the village, features a variety of water bodies. These include country park lakes, wetland centres, and historical mill ponds, offering diverse natural attractions. You can explore places like Yarrow Valley Country Park with its lakes and mill ponds, or the vast marsh and wetland habitat of Martin Mere Wetland Centre.
Yes, several lakes offer excellent walking opportunities. Yarrow Valley Country Park is known for its many different routes around its lakes and waterfalls. Lower Kem Mill Pond within Cuerden Valley Park also provides a peaceful green oasis with paths. For more hiking options, explore the dedicated Hiking around Croston guide.
Many of the lakes around Croston are family-friendly. Yarrow Valley Country Park is great for kids with its varied routes and natural features. Martin Mere Wetland Centre is specifically designed for wildlife observation, which can be fascinating for children. Lower Kem Mill Pond and Worden Park Pond also offer accessible and engaging environments for families.
Yes, Yarrow Valley Country Park is a popular spot for dog walkers, offering plenty of routes to explore with your canine companion. Always ensure dogs are kept under control and follow any local signage regarding leads or restricted areas.
Worden Park Pond features an easy-access boardwalk and new paths, making it suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. This allows visitors of all mobilities to enjoy the tranquil setting and observe wildlife.
The lakes and wetlands around Croston are rich in wildlife. Martin Mere Wetland Centre is a prime location for diverse bird and animal life, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. Lower Kem Mill Pond is also known for its abundant wildlife and fish.
Yes, Yarrow Valley Country Park has a cafe and information centre on site. Martin Mere Wetland Centre also features a small cafe and shop at its visitor centre, where you can grab a cup of tea and support their conservation work.
The lakes around Croston offer beauty throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the lush greenery and active wildlife. Autumn brings vibrant colours to the parklands, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
Absolutely! The region offers various cycling opportunities. You can find routes for both touring bicycles and road cycling. Explore the Cycling around Croston guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Croston guide for detailed routes and difficulty levels.
Yes, some lakes have interesting historical connections. Yarrow Valley Country Park, for instance, has traces of its industrial past, including former mill ponds and remnants of old cloth mills and a colliery. Martin Mere Wetland Centre was formed from what was once the largest body of fresh water in England, with its size varying significantly since the last ice age.
For places like Yarrow Valley Country Park, parking is generally available on site, often near visitor centres or main entrances. Similarly, Martin Mere Wetland Centre has dedicated parking for visitors. For other locations like Worden Park Pond, parking is typically available within the park grounds.
Martin Mere Wetland Centre is unique as a vast marsh and wetland habitat, managed by the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust. It's a significant site for bird and animal life, offering exceptional opportunities for wildlife observation from hides or during ranger-led tours. Historically, it was once the largest body of fresh water in England.


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