Best lakes around Ash CP CP are characterized by a mix of natural and man-made water features, often integrated into parklands and historical estates. The area offers diverse landscapes, from ancient woodlands to managed park environments, providing various opportunities for outdoor activities. These locations frequently feature walking paths alongside lakes and ponds, with some sites also preserving historical structures like old mills.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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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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The Lakeside Path at Markeaton Park is a segment of the Parkrun route, offering an all-weather tarmac surface and views of the lake, with an opportunity to hire a pedalo for an after-run warm-down.
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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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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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A pleasant nature reserve worth checking out if in the area. Despite the noises from the nearby A50, it is still a calming place with hardly any visitors, and full of wildlife. A loop around the nature reserve is about 1.5 - 2 miles and there are suggested routes on a board at the entrance. Car parking can be found at the entrance alongside the road. Note: most of the paths do not allow dogs.
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Osmaston Estate is a beautiful park with plenty of ancient woodlands to explore. It is well worth planning a route which ventures through this park. The sawmill is a beautiful building located by the lake and immediately adjacent to the footpath. It is surrounded by steep bank covered with a verdant forest of very tall trees. Parking is easy on the street in both nearby Shirley & Osmaston villages.
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The lakes around Ash CP CP are a mix of natural and man-made water features, often integrated into parklands and historical estates. You'll find everything from serene woodland ponds to larger park lakes with diverse flora and fauna, and even historical sites featuring old mills.
Yes, several lakes around Ash CP CP are great for families. Osmaston Park Sawmill, Shirley Park Woodland and Pond, and Markeaton Park are all highlighted as family-friendly, offering walks and open spaces for enjoyment. Kedleston Hall Lake also offers a family-friendly historical experience.
Many of the lakes offer scenic views. Osmaston Park Sawmill is surrounded by steep banks and tall trees, providing a beautiful backdrop to the lake and old timber mill. Shirley Park Woodland and Pond offers pleasant walks through woods and along the lakeside, while Markeaton Park is known for its diverse flora and fauna, streams, and open spaces.
Absolutely. Osmaston Park Sawmill is a notable historical site featuring an old timber mill water wheel. Additionally, Kedleston Hall Lake is part of a historical estate where the formal gardens were drastically re-landscaped in the 18th century to create the serpentine lake seen today.
You'll find various walking opportunities. Shirley Park Woodland and Pond offers walks through woodlands and along the lake. At Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve, there are suggested routes for a 1.5-2 mile loop around the reserve. Many lakes are integrated into parks with established paths.
Yes, the area around Ash CP CP offers various cycling opportunities. You can explore MTB Trails, Gravel Biking routes, and general Cycling routes. These guides provide details on trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, often passing through scenic areas near the lakes.
Parking is generally available. For instance, at Osmaston Park Sawmill, street parking is easy in nearby Shirley & Osmaston villages. Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve has car parking at its entrance alongside the road. Large parks like Markeaton Park typically have dedicated parking facilities.
Facilities vary by location. Markeaton Park, for example, is well-equipped with open spaces, streams, a lake, and even a small coffee shop. Other locations like Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve are more focused on natural preservation, offering basic amenities like car parking.
Dog policies vary. At Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve, it's important to note that most of the paths do not allow dogs. Always check local signage or specific park rules before bringing your dog to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone.
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical interest. The ancient woodlands, scenic views, and the opportunity to explore historical structures like the old timber mill at Osmaston Park Sawmill are frequently mentioned. The peaceful atmosphere of places like Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve, despite nearby road noise, is also valued for its wildlife.
While popular spots like Markeaton Park can attract many visitors, Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve is noted for having hardly any visitors, offering a more calming and secluded experience with abundant wildlife.


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