Top 16 Lakes around South Darley
Best lakes around South Darley are primarily man-made reservoirs and water bodies situated in the surrounding areas of this rural parish in Derbyshire. These water features offer diverse recreational opportunities within picturesque landscapes, often close to the Peak District National Park. The area provides a variety of experiences, from tranquil birdwatching and scenic walks to active water sports and fishing.
Best lakes around South Darley
- The most popular lakes is Carsington Water, a lake that offers lovely views all…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Carsington Water
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Mill Pond
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Ogston Reservoir
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Stubbing Pond Boathouse
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Bentley Brook and Upper Pond
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The Upper Pond was constructed in the 1780s by Watts, Lowe and Co to supply water for their cotton mill. …
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Stubbing Pond's history is connected to the industrial past of the Wingerworth area. The pond was created as a source of water power for various activities, including the operation of a smithy. The dam for Stubbing Great Pond was constructed around 1700. From the pond, one can see Stubbing Court, the ancestral home of the Hunloke family.
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"Spring has arrived – and the sun has melted the ice on the mill pond. Its rays reach to the bottom of the pond – and tickle awake the little water sprite, who has been hibernating with his mermaid parents. And what's the first thing a curious little water sprite does? Spring cleaning with his mother? Repairing the broken roof of the water sprite's house? Wrong! Of course, the little water sprite's first priority is to meet his old friend, Cyprinus the carp... The little water sprite isn't quite as cheeky here as in the 1955 original – but Daniel Napp's little spring story has been enchantingly illustrated. A magical, endearing, and ageless reading experience for children ages 4 and up." The Stiftung Lesen (Reading Foundation) reviews a four-volume sequel to the popular "The Little Water Sprite" by Otfried Preußler (1923 to 2013), which guides children through the seasons in this children's book series.
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Not great to walk around unless you want to walk on the road a lot. There is no direct access to the reservoir because it is a conservation site. The car park is free and there are benches to sit on to watch the birds. Ognaston Bird Club conducts a guided bird walk on the first Saturday of each month and everyone is welcome. With them, you can access the reservoir surrounding areas to watch birds. If you want great views of the reservoir however you can combine a visit with a footpath walk up from the reservoir through fields and these are quite well signposted and accessible except from a slim squeeze with a holly hedge on one side and part of a footpath which is quite nettly - but will probably be okay by Autumn.
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Bentley Brook runs through Lumsdale Valley into the River Derwent. The Upper Pond was constructed in the 1780s by Watts, Lowe and Co to supply water for their cotton mill. It has silted up since the dam wall broke in 1947 and is now a designated nature reserve. The Middle Pond was also from the 1780s and was restored in 2014 (funded by the Heritage Lottery) after being dry and overgrown. The Lower Pond was originally a quarry but was converted into a reservoir in 1850.
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The Mill Pond (aka Lower Pond) was originally a quarry but was converted into a reservoir in 1850 to supply a continuous flow of water to power machinery.
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Well worth a visit. A circular walk taking in Northedge-Alton & Bolehill gives great views to Bolsover, Chesterfield, Hardwick and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes and water bodies can I find around South Darley?
The area around South Darley primarily features man-made reservoirs and ponds, rather than natural lakes. These include significant water sources like Ogston Reservoir and Linacre Reservoirs, as well as historical sites such as Mill Pond and Stubbing Pond Boathouse, offering diverse recreational and historical experiences.
Which lakes are best for birdwatching and wildlife spotting?
Ogston Reservoir is nationally renowned as a premier birdwatching site, especially during winter, with over 200 species recorded. Linacre Reservoirs are also a haven for nature enthusiasts, with sightings of nuthatches, woodpeckers, kingfishers, and mandarin ducks. Whitworth Park Pond is home to an abundance of wildlife all year round.
Are there family-friendly lakes with easy walks around South Darley?
Yes, Linacre Reservoirs offer trails that are generally well-edged and relatively flat, making them suitable for families, pushchairs, and those with limited mobility. Whitworth Park Pond is also located within a family-friendly park. Carsington Water features a beautiful gravel path suitable for cycling and walking, though it can get busy.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near South Darley?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring is ideal for seeing bluebells at Linacre Reservoirs. Autumn offers stunning leaf colors around Linacre. Winter is excellent for birdwatching at Ogston Reservoir. Generally, the area provides natural beauty and outdoor activities throughout the year.
Do any of the lakes have historical significance?
Yes, several do. Ogston Reservoir was created in 1958 by flooding a valley, submerging a village and part of a railway. Mill Pond was originally a quarry converted into a reservoir in 1850 to power machinery. Stubbing Pond Boathouse was historically a dam used to power Wingerworth Saw Mills. Whitworth Park Pond was once a Victorian boating lake, part of a park steeped in Victorian industrial history.
What water sports and activities are available at these lakes?
Ogston Reservoir is a hub for water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding, with the Ogston Sailing Club being a notable landmark. Trout fishing is also popular there. Anglers can find specimen carp and tench at Derwent Valley Fishery Main Lake (Haslams Lake).
Are there cycling routes around the lakes?
Yes, Carsington Water offers a popular gravel path around its perimeter, suitable for cycling. For more extensive cycling, you can explore various routes in the wider area, including road cycling routes, gravel biking trails, and MTB trails that often pass by or near these water bodies.
Where can I find parking at the lakes?
Free parking is available at Ogston Reservoir, which also has picnic facilities. Linacre Reservoirs offer paid parking, along with picnic sites and public toilets. For other locations, it's advisable to check local signage or specific highlight details for parking availability.
Are the lakes around South Darley dog-friendly?
Many of the walking paths around the reservoirs are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and to check specific site regulations. For example, Ogston Reservoir is a conservation site, so direct access to the water's edge can be limited.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in this region?
Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquil settings, scenic views, and diverse outdoor activities. Highlights like Carsington Water are praised for their lovely views and cycling paths, while Ogston Reservoir is valued for its birdwatching opportunities. The historical context of places like Mill Pond also adds to the visitor experience.
Can I access the water's edge at Ogston Reservoir?
Direct access to the water's edge at Ogston Reservoir can be limited due to its conservation status as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). However, there are public footpaths around the reservoir, and a public hide is available in the West Bank Car Park for birdwatching.
Are there any lakes known for bluebell woods?
Yes, Linacre Reservoirs are encircled by fields and bluebell woods. In springtime, these woods are beautifully carpeted with bluebells, making it a particularly appealing time for peaceful walks.
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