Best lakes around Carburton offer a diverse natural landscape in Nottinghamshire, England. The area is characterized by its historic estates and significant water bodies, including the Welbeck Lakes and Clumber Lake. These lakes are fed by the River Poulter, which has been dammed to create ornamental and fishing lakes. Visitors can explore a mix of natural habitats and historical landmarks, with many popular trails around Carburton lakes.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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Feels other worldly, beautiful setting. Fascinating history.
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Beautiful park full of woodland trails and a serpentine lake, lots to see and explore with a historical chapel and ornamental bridge, cycle hire available too in the park.
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The park has different trails, including flat paths and steeper climbs. If you're looking for a challenge, try the route up Clipstone Tip for spectacular views.
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It was just a small Sunday stroll but it was lovely. We parked our car at the garden centre which worth to going in too! There is a big farm shop which is lovely and not too expensive compared to if you want to get a quality product!
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good starting point for walks and bike rides, can easily get into sherwood pines from here and all surrounding routes, a very nice area and seems popular for fishing
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Located between Mansfield and Bolsover, this picturesque woodland is rapidly developing into one of the most attractive wildlife sites in the region. With its mixture of mature broadleaf woodland, newly planted trees, large open meadows and a scenic wetland valley, Shirebrook Wood offers something for everybody.
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The primary lakes in the Carburton area include the historic Welbeck Lakes (Great Lake, Carburton Forge, and Carburton Dam) and Clumber Lake within Clumber Park. Other notable spots are Vicar Water Lake and the lake at Creswell Crags.
Yes, there are many walking opportunities. Clumber Park offers over 20 miles of accessible paths, including a popular six-mile circular walk around Clumber Lake. Vicar Water Lake provides various trails, from flat paths to steeper climbs, and Creswell Crags features walks around its lake and through the limestone gorge.
The Welbeck Lakes are part of the historic Welbeck Estate, with Carburton Forge Lake having historical ties to a 17th/18th-century forge. Clumber Park features the ornamental Clumber Lake, an impressive bridge, and the Chapel of St Mary the Virgin. Creswell Crags is a world heritage site known for its limestone gorge, caves, and prehistoric remains, including Robin Hood's Cave.
Absolutely. Clumber Park is very family-friendly with accessible paths, cafes, and a play area. Vicar Water Lake also has a cafe and a kids' playground, making it ideal for families. Creswell Crags offers a visitor centre, information boards, and a play area, engaging children with its natural history.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Clumber Park boasts over 20 miles of traffic-free cycle ways. You can find various cycling routes, including touring, mountain biking, and gravel biking options, by exploring the Cycling around Carburton, MTB Trails around Carburton, and Gravel biking around Carburton guides.
Yes, the Welbeck Lakes (Great Lake, Carburton Forge, and Carburton Dam) are particularly renowned for fishing, offering up to 80 acres for anglers. They are home to a diverse range of species, including pike, eel, bream, roach, perch, tench, carp, and cyprinids. Fishing is permitted in designated areas, and separate car parks are available for each lake.
Clumber Park is a dog-friendly location with a three-pawprint rating, offering plenty of space for walks. It's generally advisable to keep dogs on leads in nature reserves or areas with wildlife, and to check specific park rules before visiting.
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for outdoor activities like walking and cycling. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, while winter provides a quiet, serene landscape. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
Yes, Clumber Park provides various visitor facilities, including cafes, shops, and accessible toilets. Vicar Water Lake has a cafe, and Creswell Crags also features a visitor centre with a cafe.
Parking facilities are available at the main attractions. For the Welbeck Lakes, there are separate car parks designated for each lake. Clumber Park has ample parking for visitors, though entry fees may apply for non-National Trust members. Creswell Crags also has parking, and some visitors mention parking at nearby garden centres.
Clumber Park is known for its accessibility, offering over 20 miles of accessible paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Vicar Water Lake also features flat paths that are generally suitable for easier access.
The Welbeck Lakes and their surrounding areas are designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), highlighting their importance as habitats for diverse wildlife, especially birds. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching and appreciating the natural environment. Clumber Lake and its parkland also support a variety of flora and fauna.


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