Best lakes around Tottington, a village in Greater Manchester, are primarily reservoirs in the surrounding area. While Tottington itself does not feature large natural lakes, the vicinity offers several notable water bodies popular for recreation. These locations provide opportunities for outdoor activities amidst varied natural landscapes. The area is characterized by its accessible natural beauty, offering a tranquil escape from urban environments.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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Take time to go off the trail to the bird hides and vantage points around the water. The route is best in spring before the nettles take over the path in summer!
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The pub in Thomson (The Chequers) on Griston Road is worth a visit...old with lots of character.
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Not so good spot for lunch, move on and find a better place
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Really nice easy walk good on a warm day with shelter from the forests
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Thompson Water and the common form an SSSI managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust. It's a particularly important area for dragonflies and damselflies.
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The Pingo Trail is an 8 mile hike around Thompson Common which takes in the delights of the ice age pools known as pingos. As the ground froze, water underneath froze to create little hills. When the ice melted the earth dropped back down and created the pingos. They are usually found in places such as Greenland and Alaska so it is an interesting and unique place to visit.
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Thompson Common is an important habitat for wildlife, with dragonflies, damselflies, otters and pool frogs all in residence. The common is famous for its pingos, post glacial depressions that look like small ponds.
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While Tottington itself doesn't have large natural lakes, the surrounding area of Bury, Greater Manchester, features several notable reservoirs. These include Elton Reservoir and the series of reservoirs in the Piethorne Valley, such as Ogden and Kitcliffe. These water bodies are popular for recreation and offer diverse natural beauty.
For a peaceful stroll, Elton Reservoir is an excellent choice. It's encircled by walking paths, offering a tranquil and picturesque setting. An easy circular walk around Elton Reservoir can be combined with the nearby Withins Reservoir, taking about 45 minutes to an hour.
Yes, Elton Reservoir is known as an excellent spot for bird-watching and observing local wildlife. Its tranquil waters and surrounding landscapes provide a refreshing escape into nature for wildlife enthusiasts.
Fishing is a popular activity at several reservoirs. Elton Reservoir is a known location for fishing, and it is free to fish, though visitors should check local regulations. In the Piethorne Valley, fly fishing is available at Piethorne and Kitcliffe reservoirs, while coarse fishing can be done at Ogden Reservoir. Day tickets are required for fishing in Piethorne Valley.
The Piethorne Valley Reservoirs offer an extensive network of trails suitable for various ability levels. You can find everything from easy reservoir circuits to more challenging moorland hikes. Popular routes include sections of the Rochdale Way and loops around Norman Hill Spillway, connecting reservoirs like Ogden and Piethorne.
Yes, the Piethorne Valley is considered a great location for family walks. It features amenities like toilets and a free car park at Ogden Reservoir, making it convenient for families to explore the diverse terrain and beautiful scenery.
The Piethorne Valley Reservoirs are surrounded by open moorland, offering wide-open views, waterside paths, and rolling hills. This area provides a rewarding destination for those seeking natural beauty and expansive landscapes.
In the Piethorne Valley, you can enjoy picturesque Victorian-era reservoirs, including Ogden and Kitcliffe, which are connected by stone-step cascades. The varied landscape combines tranquil waters with open moorland, offering a unique blend of natural and historical features.
Yes, a sailing club operates at Elton Reservoir, offering sailing lessons. This provides a unique recreational activity on the water close to Tottington.
For a quieter experience at Elton Reservoir, summer mornings or weekday late afternoons are generally recommended. This allows visitors to enjoy the tranquil waters and picturesque landscapes with fewer crowds.
Trail leaflets are often available to help navigate the different routes within the Piethorne Valley. These can provide guidance on popular paths and help you explore the diverse terrain effectively. You can also find more information on the official Visit Rochdale website: visitrochdale.com.
Beyond walking and hiking, the wider area around Tottington offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and running, with options ranging from easy to difficult, allowing you to experience the diverse landscapes.


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