Best lakes around Clifton And Compton are found in a region characterized by its varied natural and historical landscapes, primarily within Derbyshire and Staffordshire. This area encompasses significant reservoirs, ancient woodlands, and sites of industrial heritage. The landscape provides diverse opportunities for outdoor activities, including walking and exploring both natural and engineered water features.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
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Planning for the reservoir started in the 1960s and construction started in 1979. In 1984, there was a partial collapse of the dam before it was filled. The dam was removed before the construction of a new dam began in 1989. The finished reservoir was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1992.
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The nearby village of Shirley was once the seat of Earl Ferrers and the Shirley family. The parkland and woods of the estate is still called Shirley Park although the grand house is no longer evident. Walking through the woodland and along the lake side is aa nice change to the farmland of the area. The woods make a great loop either from Shirley or for a longer walk from Ashbourne.
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The strong winds are very powerful across the dam wall. Those who cycle with children may want to use the road for the dam wall section on these occasions.
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really good ride experience going around carsington - the east side is packed with short climbs n downs, west side is mostly flat with refreshment stops. the main visitor centre is pricey compared to the other options
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this is the flat part of the tour - welcome relief from the undulated leg warming sections on the other side of the water
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Cafe is extraordinarily expensive, the south eastern path is up n downy, overall an enjoyable ride, a little short
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Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic beauty and diverse activities available. For instance, Carsington Water is loved for its lovely views and beautiful gravel path, ideal for cycling. Other spots like Osmaston Park Sawmill offer a blend of natural beauty with historical interest, surrounded by ancient woodlands.
Yes, several lakes are well-suited for families. Carsington Water is a popular choice, offering cycling paths and facilities. Shirley Park Woodland and Pond provides pleasant walks through woodlands and along the lakeside. Additionally, Dimmingsdale Mill Pond is a very popular place with walkers in the National Trust's Dimmingsdale, offering a tranquil setting for all ages.
The area around Clifton And Compton's lakes is rich in history. Osmaston Park Sawmill is a historical site by a lake within Osmaston Estate, where you can view the old timber mill water wheel. Dimmingsdale Mill Pond is near a former lead smelting mill, later converted to a corn mill, with records dating back to 1741. Also, Roadford Lake Dam is a significant man-made monument, opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1992.
Absolutely. Lakes like Shirley Park Woodland and Pond offer lovely walks through ancient woodlands. While not directly in the guide's immediate focus, the broader region includes notable birdwatching sites like Chew Valley Lake and Blagdon Lake in Somerset, which are internationally recognized for their diverse bird populations and nature trails. The local lakes provide peaceful environments for observing local wildlife.
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on routes like the Tissington Trail, which has options ranging from easy to difficult, or explore the challenging 'Bradbourne Brook Ford – Carsington Water loop'. For hiking, there are trails such as the 'River Dove – Okeover Mill loop' or the 'Clifton Village, Peak District loop'. Road cycling enthusiasts can tackle routes like 'Hambury Hill & the River Dove loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the cycling, hiking, and road cycling guides for Clifton And Compton.
Yes, there are several hiking trails. For example, you can enjoy walks around Shirley Park Woodland and Pond, which offers a nice change from the farmland of the area. The woodlands provide a great loop either from Shirley or for a longer walk from Ashbourne. You can also find various hiking routes in the broader area, such as the 'River Dove – Okeover Mill loop' or the 'Clifton Village, Peak District loop', detailed in the Hiking around Clifton And Compton guide.
Yes, Carsington Water is particularly well-suited for cycling, featuring a beautiful gravel path all the way around. For an easier ride, it's recommended to cycle anticlockwise. You can find more cycling routes in the area, including the Tissington Trail, in the Cycling around Clifton And Compton guide.
While the guide focuses on popular spots, the region has many tranquil areas. Dimmingsdale Mill Pond, set within the National Trust's Dimmingsdale, offers a peaceful walking experience. Its historical context as a former lead smelting and corn mill adds to its unique charm, making it a quiet spot away from larger crowds.
Yes, Carsington Water is known for having facilities, which typically include parking and often cafes or visitor centers. For Osmaston Park Sawmill, parking is easy on the street in the nearby villages of Shirley & Osmaston, allowing access to the estate and its lakeside views.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, especially in wooded areas like Shirley Park Woodland and Pond. Even in winter, some trails are suitable for walks, though conditions may vary. Always check local weather before your visit.
While specific accessibility details for all highlights are not provided, some areas in the broader region are known for accessibility. For example, Clifton Country Park in Greater Manchester (a different Clifton, but an example of regional efforts) features surfaced paths around its lake that are accessible for disabled users. For the lakes directly around Clifton and Compton, it's best to check individual site information for specific accessibility features, especially for paths and facilities.
Many outdoor areas in the UK are dog-friendly, especially on public footpaths and trails around lakes. For instance, the walks around Shirley Park Woodland and Pond and Dimmingsdale Mill Pond are generally suitable for dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially near wildlife or livestock. Always look for local signage regarding dog policies, particularly in nature reserves or areas with sensitive ecosystems.


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