Top 20 Lakes around Ockbrook And Borrowash
Best lakes around Ockbrook and Borrowash offer diverse natural landscapes for outdoor activities. While Ockbrook and Borrowash do not host large lakes directly, the surrounding area provides several accessible water bodies. These locations are known for recreation, wildlife observation, and peaceful enjoyment. The region features a mix of freshwater lakes, nature reserves, and trails with water features.
Best lakes around Ockbrook And Borrowash
- The most popular lakes is Mapperley Reservoir, a lake that spans 17-18 acres and includes a…
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Attenborough Nature Reserve
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Mapperley Reservoir
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Melbourne Pool
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Allestree Park
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Nutbrook Trail
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The area known as Allestree Park was enclosed in about 1818. The house begun by Bache Thornhill was completed by John Giradot (High Sheriff of Derbyshire) with three storeys and five bays, the central three bowed with an ionic columned porch. A large part of the estate was sold for housing development in 1928. The neglected house now stands in a 300-acre (1.2 km2) wooded parkland with lake, grasslands and former golf course, owned by Derby City Council. Allestree Park is designated as a Local Nature Reserve.
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The 18-hole Golf Course opened in 1955, was closed in December 2020 and has now disappeared. There are several colour-coded & waymarked walking, running & nature trails to enjoy. Allestree Park is perfect for families to enjoy some fresh air and a stroll.
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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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Although its extent in the medieval period is not known, Melbourne Pool was certainly large by the early 17th century, as shown on a map of that time. Tradition says that stone for Melbourne Castle was quarried here before the area was flooded. A map of 1787 shows the Pool extending further to the west than it does now. It provided water to Melbourne Mill. The level of the water was raised by two feet at the beginning of the 18th century, in order to work the fountains in the Hall gardens, although this flooded part of the vicarage garden. By the early 19th century the pool was silted up completely at the west end. In the 1840s it was partly filled and the rest was cleaned out, making two ornamental islands and landscaping the surrounding area. In its current form it covers some 20 acres. It is not known when it was first created, but references to a mill pool are found in the early 14th century.
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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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The Mapperley Reservoir is a very large fresh water lake that spans 17-18 acres and includes a nature reserve that spans 2 acres. The venue, surrounded by trees and situated in a very nice setting, is a nice place to fish throughout the year.
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Still a lovely park but the golf course has closed and the Pro shop is no more so little opportunity for refreshments. In summer there is sometimes an ice cream van near the Hall. Park is due for "rewilding" which means there will be less open space for cycling and, for some obscure reason, a lot more fencing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find near Ockbrook and Borrowash?
The area around Ockbrook and Borrowash features a variety of freshwater lakes and nature reserves. These range from large reservoirs like Mapperley Reservoir, known for its tranquil setting and wildlife, to nature reserves with extensive walking paths and bird-watching opportunities such as Attenborough Nature Reserve. Many also incorporate woodlands and historical elements.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the area?
Yes, several lakes are well-suited for families. Mapperley Reservoir is surrounded by bluebell woodlands and farmland, offering easy walks and wildlife spotting. Attenborough Nature Reserve provides flat paths suitable for cycling and walking, with bird hides for observation. Allestree Park also features open grass areas, a lake, and woodlands, perfect for family strolls.
Where can I go for a peaceful walk around a lake?
For a peaceful walk, Mapperley Reservoir offers a serene environment with bluebell woodlands and rolling farmland. St Chad's Water Nature Reserve, though not a highlight in our guide, is a 23-acre site with a circular walking path around its lake, woodland edges, and a wildflower meadow, providing a quiet escape.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting or bird watching?
Absolutely. Mapperley Reservoir is excellent for bird watching, with common sightings including coot, moorhen, mallard, and kingfisher. In summer, you can hear chiffchaffs, willow warblers, and blackcaps. Attenborough Nature Reserve is a popular bird-watching spot with numerous ponds and bird hides. Melbourne Pool also hosts a variety of bird species.
Can I go fishing at any of the lakes?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at some of the local lakes. Mapperley Reservoir is a well-known spot for fishing throughout the year due to its peaceful setting. St Chad's Water Nature Reserve also offers fishing opportunities.
What historical sites are associated with the lakes?
Melbourne Pool has significant historical depth, with its extent documented since the 17th century and traditions linking it to stone quarrying for Melbourne Castle. The Nutbrook Trail, which features numerous ponds, runs through an area with a long coal mining history, with deep mines operating from 1722 until the 1960s.
Are there cycling routes near the lakes?
Yes, the area offers several cycling routes. The Nutbrook Trail is a 10-mile easy cycling and walking trail that runs along the Erewash Canal and a dismantled railway line, part of National Cycle Route 67. Attenborough Nature Reserve also has easy and tranquil paths suitable for cycling. You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling around Ockbrook And Borrowash guide.
What hiking trails are available around the lakes?
Many lakes offer excellent hiking opportunities. Mapperley Reservoir and Allestree Park both have trails suitable for walking. St Chad's Water Nature Reserve features a circular path around its lake. For more options, explore the Hiking around Ockbrook And Borrowash guide, which includes routes like the 'Locko Park Lake – View of Locko Hall loop'.
Are the lake paths accessible for everyone, including those with dogs or pushchairs?
Many of the paths around the lakes are suitable for a variety of users. The Nutbrook Trail is known for being a safe, flat ride or walk, making it good for families. Attenborough Nature Reserve also has easy and tranquil paths. While specific accessibility for all paths varies, many popular routes are generally well-maintained. Always check local signage for dog restrictions.
Are there any lakes with visitor facilities or nearby amenities?
Mapperley Reservoir has a visitor centre located in the nearby Shipley Country Park. For Melbourne Pool, local shops and cafes are within a minute's walk. Attenborough Nature Reserve has an office where you can obtain passes for bird hides and often has refreshments available.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Ockbrook and Borrowash?
The lakes offer beauty throughout the year. Spring is ideal for seeing bluebell woodlands around Mapperley Reservoir and hearing migratory birds. Summer brings warmer weather for walking and cycling, with wildflowers blooming at places like St Chad's Water. Autumn offers vibrant foliage, and even winter walks can be peaceful, especially for bird watching.
What makes Mapperley Reservoir a popular choice?
Mapperley Reservoir is popular for its large freshwater expanse (17-18 acres) and a 2-acre nature reserve. It's surrounded by scenic bluebell woodlands and rolling farmland, making it a peaceful spot for fishing, wildlife spotting, and enjoying nature. A visitor centre is also available in nearby Shipley Country Park.
What can I expect at Attenborough Nature Reserve?
Attenborough Nature Reserve offers a river path with numerous ponds, making it a prime location for bird-watching and cycling. There are bird hides available for observation, and the paths are generally easy and tranquil. It's a great spot for nature lovers and those looking for a gentle outdoor activity.
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