Best lakes around Trusley are found in the South Derbyshire area, offering a variety of natural and man-made water features. This region is characterized by its parklands, woodlands, and nature reserves, providing diverse outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore historical estates, tranquil ponds, and larger lakes suitable for walking and wildlife observation. The landscape combines managed park environments with areas dedicated to nature conservation.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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The area known as Allestree Park was enclosed in about 1818. The house begun by Bache Thornhill was completed by John Giradot (High Sheriff of Derbyshire) with three storeys and five bays, the central three bowed with an ionic columned porch. A large part of the estate was sold for housing development in 1928. The neglected house now stands in a 300-acre (1.2 km2) wooded parkland with lake, grasslands and former golf course, owned by Derby City Council. Allestree Park is designated as a Local Nature Reserve.
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The 18-hole Golf Course opened in 1955, was closed in December 2020 and has now disappeared. There are several colour-coded & waymarked walking, running & nature trails to enjoy. Allestree Park is perfect for families to enjoy some fresh air and a stroll.
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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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Markeaton Park is the most visited park in the Deby area attracting over one million visitors per year. It's about 207 acres. The Mundy family owned the area from 1516 until they gave the park to Derby council in the early 20th century.
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A beautiful park with lots of open spaces, information about flora and fauna, streams and a lake, as well as a small coffee shop.
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Still a lovely park but the golf course has closed and the Pro shop is no more so little opportunity for refreshments. In summer there is sometimes an ice cream van near the Hall. Park is due for "rewilding" which means there will be less open space for cycling and, for some obscure reason, a lot more fencing.
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Nice spot, shame about the noise from the A50.
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reasonabe incline gravel climbs on each side but a lovely place to view the lake and the old timber mill water wheel
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The Trusley area, located in South Derbyshire, features a mix of natural and man-made water features. You'll find park lakes, woodland ponds, and nature reserve lakes, offering diverse experiences from historical estate features to wildlife habitats. Examples include the lake at Osmaston Park Sawmill and the pond at Shirley Park Woodland and Pond.
Yes, several lakes in the Trusley area are suitable for families. Markeaton Park is a highly visited park in the Derby area with open spaces, streams, and a lake, offering information about flora and fauna. Allestree Park also provides open grass areas, a lake, and various waymarked walking, running, and nature trails perfect for families.
Many lakes around Trusley are excellent for walking. Allestree Park has several color-coded and waymarked trails. The Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve offers a pleasant loop of about 1.5-2 miles with suggested routes at the entrance. You can also enjoy walks through the woodland and along the lakeside at Shirley Park Woodland and Pond.
Yes, the area around Trusley's lakes has historical significance. Osmaston Park Sawmill is a beautiful building by a lake, featuring an old timber mill water wheel within the historic Osmaston Estate. Allestree Park also contains an old Hall (though now derelict) and is part of a historical estate.
The lakes and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. The Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve is known for being full of wildlife, despite its proximity to the A50. Markeaton Park also provides information about its flora and fauna, indicating a diverse natural environment.
Yes, the Trusley area offers various routes for cycling and running. For cycling, you can explore routes like the 'Franz Farm Shop & Kitchen loop' or the 'Longford Mill – Gravel Shortcut loop'. Runners can find trails such as the 'Running loop from Etwall CP' or the 'Badgers Bridge loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Trusley and Running Trails around Trusley guides.
While many parks and natural areas are generally dog-friendly, it's important to check specific regulations. For example, at Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve, most of the paths do not allow dogs, so plan accordingly.
Parking availability varies by location. For Osmaston Park Sawmill, parking is generally easy on the street in nearby Shirley & Osmaston villages. At Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve, car parking can be found at the entrance alongside the road.
The lakes around Trusley can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and summer are ideal for walks and outdoor activities, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Winter hiking is also possible, though conditions may vary.
Yes, some locations offer refreshments. Markeaton Park has a small coffee shop. At Allestree Park, refreshments (drinks and ice creams) were previously available, and sometimes an ice cream van is present near the Hall in summer, though the golf pro shop is no longer there.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural settings, from the ancient woodlands of Osmaston Estate to the open spaces of Markeaton Park. The opportunity for peaceful strolls, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the blend of managed park environments with nature conservation areas are frequently highlighted. The historical elements, like the sawmill at Osmaston Park, also add to the appeal.


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