Top 20 Lakes around Stapleford
Best lakes around Stapleford, located in Nottinghamshire, offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The area features a mix of serene nature reserves, active water parks, and picturesque country park lakes. Visitors can explore bodies of water surrounded by woodlands, farmland, and historical sites. This region provides varied experiences, from wildlife observation to water sports and tranquil walks.
Best lakes around Stapleford
- The most popular lakes is Mapperley Reservoir, a lake that is a peaceful body of water surrounded…
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Attenborough Nature Reserve
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Mapperley Reservoir
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Highfields Lake, University Park
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Nutbrook Trail
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St Chad's Water Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
A lovely place for a gentle cycle or stroll. It's a popular spot!
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Djanogly Gallery in the Lakeside Arts Centre
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St Chad’s water was created in the 1970’s during the excavation of the underlying gravel deposits by Haveringham Gravels. As quarrying proceeded, water flooded the lake through the subterranean water table and once the site was abandoned, the lake and its environs were sold to Draycott and Church Wilne Parish Council for £1.00. St Chads Water and its surrounding environments are an important local resource for informal countryside recreation such as fishing, walking and bird watching. The site is approx. 23 acres and consists of the Lake with a circular walking path around it, woodland edges, a wildflower meadow area and in 2023 we have opened up a new area for use as an outdoor classroom.
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Highfields Park was part of an estate built and landscaped in the late 18th and early 19th century. In 1920 Sir J Boot bought the estate and used it as the site of the East Midlands University (now Nottingham University). Highfileds House became part of the university and is currently used as a staff annexe. The landscape was re-modelled to suit the setting, with the joining of the fishing pond and small boating lake to become the larger lake we see today. The public can walk around Highfields Park. The circuit of the lake is a nice, gentle walk within the city.
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This area has a long coal mining history with deep mines open from 1722 until the 1960's. On the closure of the mines the area was remediated, contoured and planted with trees. The lake was also created. Initially the park was run a s a theme park but this venture didn't work so it's back to nature.
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Now reopened (December 2022) This easy cycling and walking trail runs from Long Eaton to Heanor along the Erewash Canal and a dismantled railway line. It runs for about 10 miles and is part of National Cycle Route 67. It's a great one for families or anyone looking for a safe, flat ride or walk
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Frequently Asked Questions
What lakes near Stapleford are best for nature observation and birdwatching?
For excellent nature observation and birdwatching, visit Attenborough Nature Reserve, which features numerous ponds and is a popular spot for diverse birdlife. You can follow tranquil river paths and access bird hides. Another great option is Mapperley Reservoir, known for wildlife spotting, including coot, moorhen, and kingfisher, especially within its bluebell woodlands.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Stapleford?
Yes, several lakes near Stapleford are great for families. Mapperley Reservoir is surrounded by woodlands and farmland, offering a peaceful setting for family walks and wildlife spotting. Attenborough Nature Reserve is also family-friendly with easy paths and bird hides. Additionally, Colwick Country Park, with its West Lake and Main Lake, offers a playground and cafes, making it suitable for family visits and various outdoor activities.
What lakes offer water sports or active recreational opportunities?
Spring Lakes is an excellent choice for active recreation, featuring an Aqua Park with slides, a cable lake for wakeboarding, and a custom-built beach. It's ideal for those seeking adrenaline-pumping water sports or a fun day out for all ages.
Where can I find easy walking routes around lakes near Stapleford?
You can find easy walking routes around several lakes. Highfields Lake, University Park offers a gentle walking circuit within the city. Attenborough Nature Reserve has easy, tranquil river paths. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Stapleford guide, which includes routes like the Nottingham Canal Nature Reserve loop.
Are there lakes near Stapleford suitable for fishing?
Yes, Springvale Fishing Lakes are an ideal destination for anglers. They comprise six well-stocked lakes set in tranquil surroundings, offering a wide variety of fish species including Common and Mirror Carp, Ide, Tench, Chub, Skimmer Bream, and Barbel. Colwick Country Park also permits coarse fishing.
What lakes combine natural beauty with historical interest?
Rufford Abbey and Gardens features a beautiful serpentine lake within a 130-acre country park, alongside woodland trails, a historical chapel, and an ornamental bridge. It offers picturesque walks and a chance to explore the grounds of a former Cistercian abbey, blending natural beauty with rich history.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Stapleford?
Visitors particularly appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and wildlife spotting opportunities. For instance, Mapperley Reservoir is loved for its tranquil waters and birdwatching. The easy, tranquil river paths at Attenborough Nature Reserve are also highly rated, though visitors recommend having a bell on bikes due to weekend busyness.
Are there cycling routes near the lakes around Stapleford?
Yes, there are several cycling routes available. The Nutbrook Trail is an easy cycling and walking trail that runs for about 10 miles and is part of National Cycle Route 67. You can also find more options in the Road Cycling Routes around Stapleford and MTB Trails around Stapleford guides.
Where can I find a lake with an outdoor classroom or educational facilities?
St Chad's Water Nature Reserve offers an outdoor classroom area, making it a valuable local resource for informal countryside recreation and learning. Colwick Country Park also provides educational facilities alongside its lakes.
What are Netherfield Lagoons known for?
Netherfield Lagoons, a Local Nature Reserve, is known as a prime location for birdwatching and enjoying natural tranquility. It comprises two gravel ponds, attracting waders and gulls to its muddy edges, and wildfowl and warblers to its deeper waters, making it ideal for observing wetland birds.
Are there lakes near Stapleford with cafes or facilities?
Yes, Highfields Lake, University Park features a lakeside cafe and arts centre, perfect for relaxing with a view. Spring Lakes also has a cafe and dining pods. Colwick Country Park and Langold Country Park Lake both offer cafes, providing convenient spots for refreshments during your visit.
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