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United Kingdom
England
West Midlands Region
Staffordshire
Staffordshire Moorlands

Cotton

Top 8 Lakes around Cotton

Best lakes around Cotton are found in a region characterized by its varied landscape, encompassing historical industrial sites, natural waterways, and managed parklands. This area offers a combination of man-made features and natural beauty, providing diverse points of interest for visitors. The local environment includes rivers, forests, and ornamental lakes, reflecting both its industrial heritage and natural appeal.

Best lakes around Cotton

  • The most popular lakes is Leek Tunnel Pool, a bridge that forms part of a canal path.…

Last updated: June 30, 2026

Dimmingsdale Mill Pond

Highlight • Structure

The smelting mill is now much altered and is a private residence, but the former mill pond is a very popular place with walkers in National Trust's Dimmingsdale.

Lead smelting …

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Leek Tunnel Pool

Highlight • Bridge

Probably best to get off the bike !!
Little tunnel through a sharp little hill.

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A very helpful arrangement of stones to cross over a tributary of the Churnet River.

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The JCB factory west of Rocester has worked hard to incorporate itself into the landscape. The site includes parkland and an ornamental lake which is open to the public and …

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I have yet to find a name for this pond online.

I wondered if it belonged to the nearby Cricket Club as access from there seems to be possible?

Access from the cycle track is prevented with barbed wire.

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Popular around Cotton

Cycling around Cotton

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Tips from the Community

cheshire cheese
January 31, 2026, Leek Tunnel Pool

a short sharp climb up over the top and a pleasant run down the other side towards leek

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flat and suitable for all

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51m
September 13, 2024, Leek Tunnel Pool

Part of the Leek Branch of the Caldon Canal the pool allows boats to turn around before the tunnel. The Churnet Way long distance walking trail and NCN 559 follow the canal towpath past the pool.

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Definitely recommend walking this short section in both directions, up and down

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kris
August 4, 2024, Leek Tunnel Pool

Steep ascent going up to circa 20 deg but highly recommended to keep your fitness up 😁

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Pretty waterfall to stumble upon as you make your way through the woods.

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The JCB factory west of Rocester has worked hard to incorporate itself into the landscape. The site includes parkland and an ornamental lake which is open to the public and maintained by JCB staff. There are several statues placed in and around the lake including this flying birds sculpture.

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Gene
July 10, 2022, Leek Tunnel Pool

The main canal path is really well surfaced however this section over the tunnel has a number of steep steps and pointless gates and obstacles, while there is a path to avoid the steps all of the gates are locked so you’ll still have to struggle with the bike

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of lakes can I expect to find around Cotton?

The Cotton area features a diverse range of water bodies, including historical mill ponds, canal pools, and ornamental lakes. This reflects the region's blend of industrial heritage and natural beauty, offering unique spots to explore.

Are there good places for walking around the lakes in Cotton?

Yes, the area offers several pleasant walking opportunities. For instance, Dimmingsdale Mill Pond is a very popular spot for walkers within the National Trust's Dimmingsdale area. You can also find routes that incorporate natural features like the Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary.

What natural features can I explore near the lakes?

Beyond the lakes themselves, you can discover natural highlights such as the Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary, which offers a small waterfall and a helpful arrangement of stones for crossing. The region also features forests and rivers that contribute to its natural appeal.

Are there historical sites to visit near the lakes in Cotton?

Absolutely. The region has a rich industrial heritage. Dimmingsdale Mill Pond is a historical site and former mill pond, once a lead smelting mill. Another interesting spot is Leek Tunnel Pool, a bridge that forms part of a canal path, reflecting the area's canal history.

Are the lakes around Cotton suitable for families?

Many spots around Cotton are family-friendly. Highlights like Dimmingsdale Mill Pond, Leek Tunnel Pool, and the Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary are categorized as family-friendly. The ornamental lake at JCB also offers a pleasant, flat environment.

Are there accessible paths around the lakes in Cotton?

Yes, some areas offer accessible paths. For example, the ornamental lake at JCB, featuring the Flying Birds Sculpture at JCB Lake, is noted as flat and suitable for all, including wheelchair users.

What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?

The area around Cotton offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, such as 'The Chained Oak – Ramblers Retreat loop from Oakamoor' or 'Oakamoor Weir and Sluice Gates – Cotton Brook loop from Oakamoor'. For cycling enthusiasts, there are road cycling routes and touring bicycle paths, including 'The Manifold Way – The Manifold Way cycle trail loop from Cotton'. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for Hiking around Cotton, Road Cycling Routes around Cotton, and Cycling around Cotton.

Are there hiking trails near these lakes?

Yes, there are several hiking trails available. Popular options include 'The Chained Oak – Ramblers Retreat loop from Oakamoor' (moderate, 10.1 km) and 'Oakamoor Weir and Sluice Gates – Cotton Brook loop from Oakamoor' (easy, 4.1 km). For more hiking ideas, visit the Hiking around Cotton guide.

What do visitors enjoy the most about the lakes around Cotton?

Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The area's mill ponds, canal pools, and ornamental lakes, along with features like the Waterfall and Stepping Stones on Churnet River Tributary, are highly regarded. The komoot community has contributed 11 photos and 90 upvotes, highlighting the appeal of these diverse water bodies.

Is there parking available near the lakes?

While specific parking details for every lake are not provided, popular spots like Dimmingsdale Mill Pond, being part of the National Trust, typically have designated parking areas for visitors. For other locations, it's advisable to check local signage or specific route information.

Can I bring my dog to the lakes around Cotton?

Many outdoor areas in the UK, including those managed by organizations like the National Trust (which oversees Dimmingsdale), are generally dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a lead. It's always best to check specific local regulations for each lake or trail you plan to visit to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

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

QuarnfordHeathyleeHeatonHollinscloughLeekfrithRushtonHortonCheddletonBiddulphLeekLongsdonBrown EdgeEndon And StanleyConsallBagnallWerringtonIpstonesOnecoteCaverswallDilhorneBlore With SwinscoeCheadleForsbrookKingsleyDraycott In The MoorsCheckleyBradnopGrindonTittesworthWaterhousesFawfieldheadWarslow And ElkstonesButtertonAltonOakamoorFarleyIlam

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