Best lakes around Bolton-Le-Sands offers access to diverse aquatic environments, from coastal expanses to tranquil inland waters. This coastal village is situated near Morecambe Bay and the Lancaster Canal, providing varied natural landscapes. The area features natural freshwater lakes, nature reserves with ponds, and a local fishery. It serves as a convenient base for exploring both coastal and inland water features.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
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The Holme Mills were originally a corn mills but change to flax in the 19th century and later to a coconut matting mill. The mill carried on being used for matting up until the 1970's. Apparently in its heyday as a matting mill it had up to 300 workers. The surrounding houses were built by the Quakers owners in the early/mid 19th century in order to house the workers at the mill.
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A visit to the reserve is highly recommended. However, there is now an entry fee: £5 for cyclists.
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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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Incredible landscape when the tide is out.
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An underrated area to walk. Stunning views all along this route. Just a note, the path can get very narrow with the cliff edge being right next to you. Just be aware if you’re with younger children or dogs.
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One of my favourite sections of the Cumbria Coastal Way, it's so quiet and beautiful around here with expansive views across the sands.
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The area around Bolton-Le-Sands offers a mix of coastal and inland water features. You can experience the expansive views of Morecambe Bay, explore natural freshwater lakes like Hawes Water, and discover diverse ecosystems at nature reserves such as Leighton Moss Nature Reserve, which features saltmarsh habitats and reed beds.
Yes, Hawes Water is considered family-friendly, offering a natural lake environment. Additionally, Leighton Moss Nature Reserve is an excellent choice for families, with its visitor centre, observation hides, and well-maintained pathways for easy strolls. Further afield, Fell End Nature Reserve (about 6.2 miles away) also provides well-maintained paths, a cafe, and free entry, making it ideal for families.
For a tranquil experience, consider a stroll around Hawes Water, one of Lancashire's natural freshwater lakes known for its birdlife. The Leighton Moss Nature Reserve also offers peaceful pathways and hides for observing wildlife. Alternatively, the traffic-free towpaths of the Lancaster Canal, which passes directly through Bolton-Le-Sands, provide a pleasant and serene walking environment.
At Leighton Moss Nature Reserve, you can spot diverse wildlife including bitterns, red deer, and Greylag geese from observation hides. Hawes Water is known for its birdlife and insects. Fell End Nature Reserve, a short drive away, is a haven for fallow deer, various wading birds, owls, marsh harriers, squirrels, and pheasants.
Yes, Mount Pleasant Farm Fishery is located directly in Bolton-Le-Sands. It's a well-stocked fishery with a mixed pond featuring various coarse fish species, including carp, tench, bream, and perch. It offers facilities like parking, toilets, and disabled access pegs, and the owner provides advice and local knowledge.
You can find numerous hiking and walking opportunities. The area around Morecambe Bay offers expansive views and walking paths, especially when the tide is out. For more structured routes, explore the hiking trails around Bolton-Le-Sands, which include easy canal-side paths and moderate loops like the 'Bolton-le-Sands to Carnforth loop'.
While specific lake-side cycling routes might be limited, the Lancaster Canal towpath offers traffic-free cycling opportunities. For mountain biking, you can explore the MTB trails around Bolton-Le-Sands, which include routes like 'Arnside Knott and RSPB Leighton Moss loop' that pass near natural areas.
Yes, you can visit the View of Holme Mills, which offers a glimpse into the area's industrial past. These mills, originally corn mills, later became flax and then coconut matting mills, with surrounding houses built by Quaker owners for workers. This spot provides both historical context and a scenic viewpoint.
Visitors particularly appreciate the quiet beauty and expansive views offered by areas like Morecambe Bay. The opportunity to observe diverse wildlife at places like Leighton Moss Nature Reserve is also highly valued. The tranquil nature of the freshwater lakes and the accessible towpaths of the Lancaster Canal provide peaceful escapes.
Yes, Leighton Moss Nature Reserve has a visitor centre with a shop and tea room. Fell End Nature Reserve, located a short distance away, also features a cafe, providing refreshments for visitors.
The lakes and nature reserves around Bolton-Le-Sands can be enjoyed year-round. However, for birdwatching and spotting diverse wildlife, spring and autumn are often ideal. Summer offers pleasant weather for walking and exploring, while winter can provide a unique, tranquil experience, especially at the nature reserves.
Mount Pleasant Farm Fishery in Bolton-Le-Sands offers disabled access pegs for fishing enthusiasts. While specific accessibility details for all lake areas vary, nature reserves like Fell End Nature Reserve are known for having well-maintained pathways suitable for leisurely strolls, which may accommodate some accessibility needs. It's always advisable to check specific site information for detailed accessibility features.


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