Best lakes around Burton offer a diverse natural landscape, primarily centered within Delamere Forest in Cheshire. This region features extensive woodlands, wetlands, and several distinct lake environments. The area is characterized by its rich biodiversity and varied terrain, providing opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
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Lovely ride through Delamere Forest. You can't go wrong on a mtb or emtb. I entered the forest at New Pale and went round lots of trails to the holiday lodges and came out on Waterloo Lane.
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It does get busy around the visitors' centre and the Gruffalo trail. However, if you ride up Pale Hill and follow the perimeter of the forest, there are plenty of quiet trails to explore. Keep your eyes peeled for single tracks going through the forest, there lots of off-the-beaten-path routes to follow if you look for them.
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Nice spot for a quiet rest as I cycle the country lanes into and out of Chester.
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amazing walk just cant take the path next to the hatch mere nature reserve because it's very deep mud at the moment
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Could become overgrown in summer or muddy if wet. Interest spot to see
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Lovely place for a quick stop...there's always plenty of birdlife on or around the pond. The ducks generally boss the place,so don't mess with them :-)
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Blakemere Moss at Delamere Forest is a reclaimed wetland area. The Moss was originally formed from two kettle holes (water filled hollows formed by a detached mass of glacial ice melted in situ towards the end of the last ice age). Delamere Forest is made up of more than 100 peatland basins and includes several sites of rare 'quaking' bogland, a phenomenon in which sphagnum mosses form a carpet above peaty water that appears to tremble when trodden on. The area was drained from the 1800's, supposedly by prisoners from the Napoleonic Wars and planted with trees, (mainly oak and Scot's Pine) between 1793-1815 to provide timber for shipbuilding. The Forestry Commission planted the moss with pine and western hemlock during the 1940s, which proved uneconomic. In the late 1990's the Commission allowed the area to re-flood again naturally.
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The lakes around Burton, primarily located within Delamere Forest in Cheshire, are known for their diverse natural landscape. This includes extensive woodlands, wetlands, and various distinct lake environments. The area is rich in biodiversity, offering opportunities for outdoor exploration and appreciation of nature.
Among the most popular lakes are Whitefield, Delamere Forest, which is part of a large woodland with many trails and numerous small lakes. Another highly regarded spot is Blakemere Moss, a natural monument and flooded area known for its biodiversity and birdwatching opportunities. Black Lake Nature Reserve, Delamere Forest is also a tranquil favorite, home to dragonflies, damselflies, and unusual mosses.
The lakes are rich in wildlife. At Blakemere Moss, you can spot various bird species such as greylags, Canada geese, black-headed gulls, coots, mallards, and lapwings. Black Lake Nature Reserve is particularly noted for its many species of dragonfly and damselfly, as well as unique mosses.
Yes, Blakemere Moss is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its rich biodiversity. Black Lake Nature Reserve is also a tranquil natural monument within Delamere Forest, recognized for its unique bogland ecosystem.
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive walking and hiking trails, as well as cycling and mountain biking. For specific routes and guides, you can explore options like Gravel biking around Burton, Running Trails around Burton, and MTB Trails around Burton.
Yes, there are many trails. Whitefield, Delamere Forest features numerous trails showcasing wonderful nature. You can also find lovely lake views along the cycle path at Blakemere Moss, which is also suitable for walking. Black Lake Nature Reserve offers easy walking paths for nature enthusiasts.
Absolutely. Delamere Forest, where many of these lakes are located, has multi-use paths suitable for cycling. Whitefield, Delamere Forest, for example, has blue-rated wide 'crush & run' limestone chip affairs ideal for families, along with unofficial trails for more experienced riders. You can find more cycling options in the Gravel biking around Burton and MTB Trails around Burton guides.
Many of the lakes are family-friendly. Blakemere Moss and Whitefield, Delamere Forest are both categorized as family-friendly. Christleton Duck Pond is also a lovely spot for a quick family stop to see birdlife.
Yes, Whitefield, Delamere Forest is near a modern new visitor centre which likely offers refreshments. The region research for Branston Water Park (a different location, but gives an idea of amenities in similar parks) mentions The Hub Cafe with views of the park. It's always a good idea to check specific lake websites for current amenities.
Visitors appreciate the peaceful natural surroundings and the diverse opportunities for outdoor activities. Many enjoy the extensive network of trails for walking, running, and cycling, as well as the chance to observe wildlife, particularly birds, dragonflies, and damselflies. The tranquility of spots like Black Lake Nature Reserve is also highly valued.
While specific parking details for each lake are not provided, Delamere Forest, where many of these lakes are located, has undergone extensive redevelopment, including new parking facilities. It is advisable to check the official Delamere Forest website for the most up-to-date parking information and any potential charges.


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