Top 5 Lakes around Lathom
Best lakes around Lathom, a village in Lancashire, England, are primarily known for their angling opportunities and natural reserves. The area features Lathom Fisheries, which offers four well-stocked coarse fishing lakes operating year-round. Beyond dedicated fishing sites, Lathom's natural landscape includes several country parks and wetland centers with significant historical and ecological value. These locations provide diverse outdoor experiences centered around water features.
Best lakes around Lathom
- The most popular lakes is Yarrow Valley Country Park, a facility that…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Yarrow Valley Country Park
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Martin Mere Wetland Centre
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Orrell Water Park
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Worden Park Pond
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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.
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Twin Lakes Velo Café
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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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A nature reserve and coarse fishery, Orrell Water Park is open all-year round for residents, visitors and day ticket fishing. Beautiful woodland surrounds two disused reservoirs and is home to a diverse group of birds and insects, with over 100 bird species and a wide variety of butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies recorded. Trying to have a break or eat a sandwich is impossible here due to the ducks, geese and swans all trying to get to your food. A beautiful place with a coffee shop at the top which sells a few cakes etc but no toilets.
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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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Beautiful lake to visit with a nice coffee shop at the top of the hill.
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Beautiful woodland surrounds two disused reservoirs and is home to a diverse group of birds and insects, with over 100 bird species and a wide variety of butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies recorded. Good cycling paths
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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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Martin Mere was formed at the end of the last ice age, when water filled a depression in the glacial drift. Since then its size has varied as water levels have risen and fallen. The original giant lake can be seen on Christopher Saxton's map from 1579 and stretched from Rufford in the east, to Churchtown (then known as North Meols) in the west. To the north of the lake were the villages of Mere Brow and Holmeswood, the site of Holmeswood Hall, built by the Heskeths as a hunting lodge. South of the lake was the Scarisbrick Hall estate, Martin Hall and Tarlefarwood, now known as Tarlscough
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I explore around Lathom?
The Lathom area offers a diverse range of lakes, from dedicated angling sites like Lathom Fisheries to expansive natural parks. You can find country parks with multiple lakes and waterfalls, significant historical wetlands, and nature reserves with disused reservoirs surrounded by woodland.
Are there any lakes with historical significance near Lathom?
Yes, Martin Mere Wetland Centre is a prime example. This vast marsh was historically the largest body of fresh water in England, formed at the end of the last ice age. Its size has varied over centuries, and traces of its past management, including drainage efforts from 1692, are notable.
Which lakes are suitable for family outings?
Several lakes around Lathom are great for families. Yarrow Valley Country Park features multiple lakes, waterfalls, and varied routes perfect for kids and dog walkers. Martin Mere Wetland Centre is also family-friendly, and Orrell Water Park offers a children's play area alongside its natural beauty.
Where can I go fishing around Lathom?
Lathom is well-known for its fishing opportunities. Lathom Fisheries is a notable destination with four well-stocked coarse fishing lakes, operating year-round from dawn till dusk. They offer both match and pleasure fishing with a variety of species including Carp, Perch, Roach, and Bream. Orrell Water Park also operates as a coarse fishery.
Are there accessible lakes for visitors with mobility needs?
Yes, Worden Park Pond in Worden Park offers easy access with a boardwalk and new paths, making it a peaceful spot to enjoy the water and wildlife. The park itself has held the Green Flag Award since 1997.
What facilities are available at the lakes?
Facilities vary by location. Lathom Fisheries provides a cafe during summer months, a large car park, and accessible toilets. Yarrow Valley Country Park has a cafe and information centre. Orrell Water Park features a cafe and free parking. Additionally, the Twin Lakes Velo Café offers views over the water and outdoor seating.
Can I find walking or cycling routes near the lakes?
Absolutely. The region offers numerous routes. For hiking, you can explore trails along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal or within country parks. For cycling, there are MTB trails available. You can find more details on routes like 'Leeds and Liverpool Canal – WWII Pillbox loop' or 'Burscough Wharf – Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop' in the hiking guide and MTB trails guide for Lathom.
Are the lakes around Lathom dog-friendly?
Yes, some areas are dog-friendly. For instance, Orrell Water Park is pet-friendly, making it a good option for walks with your dog. Yarrow Valley Country Park is also popular with dog walkers.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Lathom?
Many of the lake attractions, such as Lathom Fisheries, operate year-round. The natural parks and wetland centres are generally enjoyable in all seasons, offering different experiences from vibrant summer greenery to crisp winter walks. Check specific opening hours for facilities like cafes, as some may have seasonal operations.
Where can I find a cafe or refreshments near the lakes?
Several locations offer refreshments. Orrell Water Park has a lovely cafe. Yarrow Valley Country Park also features a cafe on-site. For cyclists, the Twin Lakes Velo Café is a specialist cyclist cafe with views over the water, open seven days a week.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. At Orrell Water Park, you can spot over 100 bird species, as well as a wide variety of butterflies, dragonflies, and damselflies. Martin Mere Wetland Centre is a significant wetland habitat, home to numerous bird species and aquatic life.
Are there any easy walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, there are many easy walking options. Worden Park Pond offers easy access paths and a boardwalk. You can also find easy hikes around the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, such as the 'Burscough Wharf – The Slipway Bar & Restaurant loop', detailed in the easy hikes guide for Lathom.
Most popular attractions around Lathom
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