Top 20 Lakes around Hunshelf

The lakes around Hunshelf are primarily reservoirs, many of which are situated within or on the edge of the Peak District National Park. These include large supply reservoirs like Langsett, groups of upland reservoirs such as Redmires, and picturesque valley reservoirs like Derwent, Howden, Damflask, and Dale Dike. There's also Rother Valley Country Park, which features artificial lakes designed for recreation.

Many reservoirs offer excellent walking opportunities. For varied terrain, Langsett Reservoir provides routes from gentle waterside strolls to challenging moorland hikes. The Redmires Reservoirs offer picturesque walks, including a 13-mile route with diverse habitats. A popular 10-mile circular route encompasses Derwent and Howden Reservoirs, offering stunning views. Damflask Reservoir has an easygoing 3.25-mile circular path, and Dale Dike Reservoir is known for its peaceful 2-mile circular walk with amazing views.

Yes, several lakes are great for families. The circular path around Damflask Reservoir is suitable for all abilities and little ones. Rother Valley Country Park Lake offers extensive cycle paths, multiple play areas, and various water activities. Langsett Reservoir and Dale Dike Reservoir also have family-friendly walking options.

Cycling is popular around several lakes. The area around Derwent and Howden Reservoirs features a well-maintained gravel trail, ideal for gravel riding. Damflask Reservoir has a quiet, smooth road circulating it, perfect for cycling. Rother Valley Country Park Lake also boasts extensive cycle paths. For more road cycling routes in the wider area, you can explore the Road Cycling Routes around Hunshelf guide.

Damflask Reservoir is a hub for water sports, with three rowing clubs and the Sheffield Viking Sailing Club active there. Rother Valley Country Park Lake is a major draw for recreational pursuits, offering sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, rowing, pedal boats, and zorbing, with equipment hire and lessons available.

Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Damflask Reservoir is one of Yorkshire's largest fisheries, attracting anglers for species like bream, chub, dace, perch, pike, and roach. Rother Valley Country Park Lake also offers fishing opportunities.

The Derwent and Howden Reservoirs area is historically significant, with memorials to the Dambusters (617 Squadron RAF) who practiced bombing techniques there during WWII. Dale Dike Reservoir has a poignant history related to the Great Sheffield Flood of 1864, which occurred after its dam failed.

Langsett Reservoir has a free car park with toilets and nearby cafes and pubs. The Redmires Reservoirs have roadside parking and a dedicated car park. Near Derwent and Howden Reservoirs, the Fairholmes Visitor Centre provides information, facilities, and bike hire. The village of Low Bradfield near Damflask Reservoir offers cafes and pubs.

Yes, Damflask Reservoir has seen enhancements for accessibility, including widened access points and an accessible ramp to the waterside, making its 3.25-mile circular route suitable for all abilities. The gravel trail around Derwent and Howden Reservoirs is also generally well-maintained.

The diverse habitats around the reservoirs support various wildlife. At Langsett Reservoir, birdwatchers can spot treecreepers, owls, and woodpeckers. Redmires Reservoirs are home to curlews, golden plovers, lapwings, grebes, Canada geese, and tufted ducks. Dale Dike Reservoir also encourages wildlife spotting in its tranquil environment.

The lakes are beautiful year-round, but late summer is particularly stunning when the purple heather blooms across the moorlands, especially around Langsett Reservoir. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and vibrant foliage, while winter can provide crisp, serene landscapes.

For those seeking solitude, Dale Dike Reservoir is often less crowded than other trails, offering a peaceful 2-mile circular walk with amazing views. Its tranquil environment is ideal for quiet contemplation and wildlife observation.

Visitors appreciate the diverse landscapes, from woodlands to expansive moorlands, and the wide range of activities available. Many enjoy the well-maintained paths for walking and cycling, the opportunities for birdwatching and fishing, and the peaceful escape these natural settings provide. The historical significance of some reservoirs, like Derwent and Howden, also adds to their appeal.