Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Lakes
United Kingdom
England
East Midlands
Derbyshire
Derbyshire Dales

Litton

Top 6 Lakes around Litton

Best lakes around Litton are primarily located within the Peak District, featuring a mix of large reservoirs and smaller, tranquil ponds. This area is characterized by its dramatic landscapes, including towering hilltops and expansive valleys. The region offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, from scenic walks to exploring man-made water features.

Best lakes around Litton

  • The most popular lakes is View of Ladybower Reservoir from Bamford Edge, a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas. From this elevated position, visitors can observe…

Last updated: June 28, 2026

Ladybower Reservoir Overflow

Highlight • Structure

The path along the top of Ladybower Dam affords a wonderful view of the reservoir nestling in the Upper Derwent Valley. You also get a close look at the reservoir …

Tip by

See rides here

Send to Phone

Save

Bamford Edge consists of a set of rocks protruding from a towering hilltop in the Peak District National Park. The views from here are incomparable, feel ontop of the world …

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Foolow Village

Highlight • Pub

A gorgeous little village, with a duck pond, ancient stone cross and a very lovely pub (The Bull's Head) which, if you time your journey right, makes for a great place to stop and refuel.

Tip by

Save

Derwent Reservoir and Dam

Highlight • Viewpoint

Lots of options to suite all abilities. Parking can be a problem when busy, so for the best experience and sometimes the entire place to yourself, head there out of peak hours and days.

Tip by

Save

Ladybower Reservoir

Highlight • Structure

Go during the week or later in the evening to avoid the crowds at the weekends. Perfect for walking or cycling. There are several routes either side of the dam …

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Litton.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Litton

Hiking around Litton

Gravel biking around Litton

Running Trails around Litton

Road Cycling Routes around Litton

MTB Trails around Litton

Cycling around Litton

Mountain Hikes around Litton

Tips from the Community

Simon Wilson
March 29, 2026, Ladybower Reservoir

The plugholes are quite a sight

0

0

Arrive mid-morning on a crisp autumn day to wander the quaint village green with its medieval cross, duck pond, and bull-ring—perfect for photos of the limestone cottages without crowds. Grab a hearty pub lunch at The Bull’s Head, savoring local ales and farm-fresh dishes, then embark on the easy 2.4-mile walk to nearby Eyam (the “Plague Village”) for a dose of history amid rolling dales. Park at the edge of the village (limited spots), wear comfy shoes for the quiet lanes, and time your visit for late August if you can catch the colorful well dressings festival

0

0

When the Derwent reservoir is full, the water flows out through the 'plugholes' at the southern end. A mesmerising spectacle when there's a lot of water flowing and can be enhanced by a great sunrise.

1

0

foolow church is so cute !! has a little corner for walkers' refreshments too, if open

0

0

Bamford Edge consists of a set of rocks protruding from a towering hilltop in the Peak District National Park. The views from here are incomparable, feel ontop of the world as you gaze toward Ladybower Dam and the rolling countryside that surrounds it.

7

0

Great walk and spectacular to see when the water is over flowing.

1

0

Another view of Bamford Edge from one of Ladybower Reservoirs "plugholes" the affectionate name given to the reservoirs overflows. To be honest they scare me.

1

0

An excellent little find. Lots of local gravel track and forest tracks to explore weather on foot or wheels.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places for scenic views of the lakes around Litton?

For unparalleled panoramic vistas, visit View of Ladybower Reservoir from Bamford Edge. From this elevated position, you can gaze down at Ladybower Dam and the surrounding Peak District countryside. It's particularly popular for sunset views.

Are there any unique man-made features to see at the lakes near Litton?

Yes, the Ladybower Reservoir Overflow, also known as the 'plug holes,' is a remarkable sight. These impressive cylindrical structures regulate water levels and are a popular spot for photographers, especially when water levels are high. You can also see the Ladybower Reservoir Plug Holes which serve a similar function.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes near Litton?

The lakes in the Peak District, such as Longshaw Pond, are home to various birds like ducks and herons. The surrounding ancient woodlands and moorlands also support diverse flora and fauna. If you are exploring the Litton Reservoirs in Somerset, you might spot moorhens, coots, mallards, mute swans, and tufted ducks, alongside primroses, bluebells, and wood anemones.

Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes?

Yes, several spots are family-friendly. Longshaw Pond, set within ancient woodlands, is easily accessible and a serene spot for families to observe nature and enjoy a picnic. The Ladybower Reservoir area, including the Ladybower Reservoir Overflow, is also suitable for families to explore. For a different experience, Litton Lakes in West Dorset offers an activity lake perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming, with a lakeside cafe and camping facilities.

What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Litton?

The area around Litton offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy walks like the 'Litton Mill – Tideswell Dale loop' or more challenging routes such as the 'Cressbrook Dale and Monsal Trail Loop'. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails like the 'Litton Tunnel – Litton Tunnel loop'. For more details on routes, explore the easy hikes around Litton, MTB trails around Litton, and hiking around Litton guides.

Can I go fishing at any of the Litton lakes?

While the lakes in the Peak District around Litton are primarily for scenic enjoyment and hiking, the Litton Reservoirs in Somerset are well-known for fishing. Both Lower Litton and Upper Litton Reservoirs are stocked with high-quality rainbow and brown trout, offering a tranquil fishing experience with a permit.

Are there cafes or places to eat near the lakes?

Yes, if you are visiting Litton Lakes in West Dorset, there is a custom-built lakeside cafe, the Purple Turtle Cafe, offering coffees, drinks, cakes, and snacks with views of the lake. In the Peak District, nearby villages like Foolow offer pubs such as The Bull's Head, which can be a great place to stop and refuel after exploring the lakes.

What is the best time to visit the lakes around Litton?

The lakes around Litton in the Peak District offer beauty year-round, with changing colors over the seasons. Spring and summer are ideal for walks and picnics, while autumn brings vibrant foliage. The Ladybower Reservoir overflows are particularly impressive when water levels are high, often after heavy rainfall. For Litton Lakes in West Dorset, warmer months are best for water sports.

Are there accessible walks near the lakes for all abilities?

Many areas around the main reservoirs in the Peak District, such as Ladybower, offer relatively flat paths suitable for various abilities. Longshaw Pond is also easily accessible from its main car park. For specific accessible routes, it's always best to check local trail information or the easy hikes around Litton guide for suitable options.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Litton?

Visitors frequently praise the stunning views, especially from spots like Bamford Edge overlooking Ladybower Reservoir. The unique engineering of the Ladybower Reservoir Overflow also draws considerable interest. Many appreciate the tranquil atmosphere for walks and the opportunity to observe wildlife, making it a perfect escape into nature.

Are the lakes around Litton dog-friendly?

Many trails and open spaces around the lakes in the Peak District are dog-friendly, making them great for walks with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or wildlife, and to check specific signage for any restrictions in certain areas or nature reserves.

Is there public transport available to reach the lakes near Litton?

While specific public transport options to every lake can vary, the Peak District generally has bus services connecting its villages and attractions. For detailed information on routes and schedules to reach specific lakes like Ladybower Reservoir or Longshaw Pond, it is advisable to consult local transport websites or services operating in the Peak District.

Most popular routes around Litton

Family-friendly hikes around Litton

Most popular attractions around Litton

Natural Monuments

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

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

HathersageHathersageAbney and Abney Grange CPOffertonGrindlefordHazlebadgeFoolowBradwellBaslow and Bubnell CPEyamFroggattHighlowStoney MiddletonGreat HucklowCurbarGrindlow CP CPMatlock TownChatsworth CPHulland WardCalverDarley DaleBeeleyEdensorWirksworthCromfordBrassingtonRowsleyBonsallMiddletonMercastonSouth DarleyPilsleyNorthwood and Tinkersley CPCallowBigginKirk IretonMatlock Bath CP CPBrailsfordHoptonHulland CPHognastonTansleyWinsterEltonBakewellCarsingtonAtlowBradley CPOffcote and Underwood CPOsmastonMapletonAshbourneSnelstonTideswellLittle Hucklow CP CPHartington Middle QuarterNether HaddonBirchoverIbleIvonbrook Grange CP CPAldwarkFenny BentleyBradbourneClifton And ComptonKnivetonShirleyYeldersleyHollingtonEdlaston and Wyaston CPRodsleyHassopLongford CPTissington and Lea Hall CPNorbury and Roston CPMarston MontgomeryGrattonThorpeHarthillStanton CPCubleyWardlowParwichBallidonBoylestoneHungry Bentley CPSudburyAlkmontonHartington Nether Quarter CPRowlandGreat LongstoneEaton and Alsop CPNewton Grange CPAshford In The WaterYoulgreaveDoveridgeYeaveleyChelmortonWhestonCarsington WaterLittle LongstoneSheldonOver HaddonSomersal HerbertBlackwell in the Peak CPMiddleton And Smerrill

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Wardlow

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy