Best lakes around Slingsby, a village in North Yorkshire, are set within a landscape of woodlands and rolling hills. The area features various natural and man-made bodies of water, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. These lakes and ponds contribute to the region's natural beauty and offer tranquil settings for visitors. North Yorkshire, in general, is known for its diverse water features, including natural lakes and reservoirs.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
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This beautiful arboretum is run jointly by Castle Howard Estates and Royal Botanic Gardens (Kew). Started in 1959, it has over 6,000 trees on 128 acres of ground. These are fantastically beautiful, landscaped grounds for any walker, including families and those with pets. There is a café at the entrance to the Arboretum. There is an entry fee. Please check at the website before going. https://www.yorkshirearboretum.org
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This is a lovely little lake in Yearsley Woods to jog your way up to. Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; the other one has been drained since and is essentially a marshland now.
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A lovely segment here down (or up from) Ganthorpe, with some picturesque ponds just outside Ganthorpe. There are pleasant views of Owlers Wood (east) and Cum Hag Wood (north-east) on this walk. A perfect stroll on your next weekend.
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This is a really gorgeous place. Right on the bank of the Great Lake, there are stunning views across the water from here, as well as picnic tables and an adventure playground for children. Peace, quiet and essentially nirvana!
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This is a lovely fishing lake right next to Birkdale Farm. It certainly offers a sense of peace and solitude here, in the lovely setting of the surrounding woodlands and hills. There is a boating hut on the bank, plenty of easy spaces for a picnic and space for parking nearby. If you would like to fish, one can hire fishing rods from the farm.
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This is a lovely little lake in Yearsley Woods to walk to. Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; the other one has been drained since and is essentially a marshland now.
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Parkland of over 6,000 trees, wildflower meadows & lakes, with a playground & bug hunting for kids.
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For a pleasant stroll, consider Higher Fish Pond, Yearsley Woods, which is a lovely natural lake. Another option is the area around Moor Hill to Ganthorpe Bridleway and Ponds, offering picturesque views. Gormire Lake, though a bit further afield near Sutton Bank, is also popular for its peaceful waters and natural setting.
Yes, several spots are great for families. The Boathouse Café, located by a great lake, features an adventure playground and picnic tables. The Yorkshire Arboretum also has lakes within its grounds, offering landscaped walks, a playground, and bug hunting for kids. For more active fun, the North Yorkshire Water Park near Scarborough provides a range of watersports and open water swimming.
You can enjoy fishing at Birkdale Farm, a tranquil fishing lake where you can even hire fishing rods from the farm. Additionally, Brickyard Lakes Country Park in Ryedale features two well-stocked fishing lakes, offering a peaceful countryside experience.
The area around Slingsby's lakes offers diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and hiking, with many trails winding through woodlands and past ponds. Cycling is also popular, with routes like the 'Castle Howard – Castle Howard Obelisk loop' nearby. For more specific routes, check out the hiking guide or cycling guide for Slingsby.
Yes, North Yorkshire offers some excellent spots for wild swimming. Gormire Lake, near Sutton Bank, is known for its spring-fed clarity and peaceful waters. Semerwater in Upper Wensleydale is another large natural lake suitable for wild swimming. For a more structured experience, the North Yorkshire Water Park offers lifeguarded open water swimming sessions. You can find more information on wild swimming in the region here.
The lakes around Slingsby are set within a landscape of woodlands and rolling hills. You'll find natural lakes like Higher Fish Pond, Yearsley Woods, and picturesque ponds along bridleways. Many areas are surrounded by forests, such as Yearsley Woods, and offer views of local woodlands like Owlers Wood and Cum Hag Wood. North Yorkshire also features several reservoirs and bodies of water designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to their diverse plant and animal species.
Visitors frequently highlight the sense of peace and solitude found at places like Birkdale Farm, set amidst woodlands and hills. The stunning views across the water from locations such as the Boathouse Café are also highly appreciated, along with the tranquil settings perfect for walks and enjoying nature.
Yes, the Boathouse Café is a popular spot located right on the bank of a great lake, offering stunning views and picnic tables. The Yorkshire Arboretum also has a café at its entrance, providing refreshments for visitors exploring its grounds and lakes.
Many of the lake areas offer easy walking opportunities. Higher Fish Pond, Yearsley Woods is described as a lovely little lake for a walk. The Moor Hill to Ganthorpe Bridleway and Ponds area is also perfect for a weekend stroll. For more detailed easy routes, you can explore the hiking guide for Slingsby.
Yes, The Yorkshire Arboretum features several lakes within its beautifully landscaped grounds. This arboretum, run jointly by Castle Howard Estates and Royal Botanic Gardens (Kew), boasts over 6,000 trees and offers a serene environment for walking and enjoying nature, including its water features.
The lakes around Slingsby offer beauty throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying walks, picnics, and family activities, with lush greenery and warmer weather. Autumn brings vibrant foliage to the surrounding woodlands, making for picturesque strolls. Even winter can be charming for peaceful walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
For peace and solitude, Birkdale Farm is highly recommended. It's a fishing lake nestled amidst surrounding woodlands and hills, offering a quiet escape. Gormire Lake, with its spring-fed clarity and peaceful waters, is another excellent choice for those seeking a serene natural setting.


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