Top 4 Lakes around Birtley
Best lakes around Birtley offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The area features several reservoirs, originally built for water supply, which have evolved into significant nature reserves and popular spots for birdwatching. Visitors can explore a mix of historical designs and natural beauty, providing tranquil escapes and outdoor activities. The region's lakes are appreciated for their ecological diversity and historical significance.
Best lakes around Birtley
- The most popular lakes is Colt Crag Reservoir, a lake that was built…
Last updated: August 10, 2026
Colt Crag Reservoir
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Kirkharle Serpentine Lake
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Track Along the Reservoir
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Sweethope Loughs
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They were created in 1730 to power a corn mill.
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Hallington Reservoirs
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Tips from the Community
Great tracks, old drove roads. Continue on to Carriers Lane and Colt Crag reservoir
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Quietly situated reservoir with rich natural beauty, built in the late 19th century as part of the drinking water system for Newcastle and Gateshead. Surrounded by woodland and bush, and popular with birdwatchers for species such as the great crested grebe, cuckoo and house martin. Ideal for a relaxing stop by the water, with views of the tranquil countryside and a touch of ecological diversity.
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wear something hi-viz on the roman military road. cars go at stupid speeds
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The serpentine lake at Kirkharle, designed by famed landscape architect Lancelot "Capability" Brown who was born here in 1716, was finally completed in 2010. Brown's plan, rediscovered in 1980s, breathed new life into the Grade 2 listed parkland. Over 2,000 trees were planted with the help of local schoolchildren, restoring the parkland to its former glory. A fully accessible 1km pathway winds through the landscape, with informative boards along the way. This allows visitors to enjoy the park year-round.
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The east reservoir was constructed first in 1872 to provide water to Newcastle, Gateshead and the surrounding area. As the population grew the second west reservoir was constructed in 1889. The area is a local nature reserve surrounded by mixed woodland.
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Sweethope Loughs are two fresh water fishing lakes. They were created in 1730 to power a corn mill.
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A nice stretch of water in Northumberland, Colt Crag Reservoir is part of a network of reservoirs, connected by tunnels and aqueducts, that provide drinking water to Newcastle Upon Tyne. Around the water, you will find a huge variety of wildlife. The reservoir is an ideal breeding ground for cuckoo, whinchat, wheatear, and meadow pipit. It's also home to great crested grebes, house martins, badgers, and bats.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Birtley are suitable for families?
Several lakes in the area are great for family outings. Colt Crag Reservoir and Sweethope Loughs are both listed as family-friendly. Hallington Reservoirs also offer a local nature reserve with mixed woodland, perfect for nature walks with children.
Are there any accessible lakes for wheelchair users near Birtley?
Yes, Kirkharle Serpentine Lake features a fully accessible 1km pathway with informative boards, making it suitable for wheelchair users to enjoy the landscape year-round.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes are rich in wildlife. At Colt Crag Reservoir, you can spot great crested grebes, cuckoos, house martins, whinchats, wheatears, meadow pipits, badgers, and bats. Hallington Reservoirs, a local nature reserve, also provide a habitat for diverse flora and fauna within its mixed woodland.
Are there opportunities for fishing at the lakes near Birtley?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. The Angel of the North Fishing Lakes, located near Birtley, are a prime destination with three distinct lakes for specimen carp, coarse, night, and competition fishing. Sweethope Loughs are also known as two freshwater fishing lakes. Additionally, Birtley R.O.F. Fishing Pond offers another local angling spot.
What historical significance do some of these lakes hold?
Several lakes have interesting historical backgrounds. Colt Crag Reservoir was built in the late 19th century to supply drinking water to Newcastle and Gateshead. Similarly, Hallington Reservoirs (east 1872, west 1889) were also constructed for the same purpose. Kirkharle Serpentine Lake is particularly notable as it was designed by the famed landscape architect Lancelot "Capability" Brown in the 18th century and completed based on his rediscovered plans in 2010.
Can I find walking or cycling routes around the lakes?
Absolutely. Many lakes offer trails for walking and cycling. For hiking, you can explore routes like the Hareshaw Linn Waterfall Walk from Bellingham, which is an easy 5.4 km trail. For cycling, consider the 'Lakeside Way' route, a challenging 70 km tour, or easier options like the Bellingham Bridge – Carriages Tea Room loop from Birtley (21.6 km). You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Birtley and Cycling around Birtley guides.
What are the best lakes for birdwatching?
Colt Crag Reservoir is a popular spot for birdwatchers, where you can observe species such as the great crested grebe, cuckoo, and house martin. It's also an ideal breeding ground for birds like whinchat, wheatear, and meadow pipit.
Are there any lakes that are good for a quiet, relaxing visit?
Colt Crag Reservoir is known for its quiet, natural beauty, offering a relaxing lakeside experience with tranquil countryside views. The Angel of the North Fishing Lakes are also praised for their beautiful and peaceful environment.
What kind of terrain can I expect on trails around the reservoirs?
Trails around reservoirs like the Track Along the Reservoir can vary. Some are signed byways through gated fields, which might not be suitable for road bikes but are fine for most other types. These often offer good views and can include old drove roads. Always be prepared for varied surfaces when exploring.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Birtley?
The lakes offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for wildlife spotting and enjoying the lush greenery. Autumn brings vibrant colours, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, especially around areas like Kirkharle Serpentine Lake with its accessible pathway.
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