Top 19 Lakes around Heapey

For easy and scenic walks, Entwistle Reservoir is a great choice, known for its historic dam and accessible paths. The Roddlesworth Reservoirs offer peaceful rambles through mature woodland, suitable for any time of year. Additionally, the Heapey Reservoirs (No. 1, 2, 3, and 6) provide a tranquil setting for leisurely strolls amidst natural beauty.

Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Brockholes Nature Reserve features trails, ancient woodland, and a floating cafe, making it perfect for a day out. The Heapey Reservoirs offer open spaces for picnics and wildlife spotting, while The Japanese Garden area provides a brilliant walk with lots to see, though it can get busy.

The lakes around Heapey are rich in wildlife. At Brockholes Nature Reserve, you can spot varied wildlife across its wetlands and woodlands. The Heapey Reservoirs are home to local species like roe deer, and the waters themselves support diverse fish populations including carp, bream, roach, perch, pike, and occasional tench.

Yes, the Heapey Reservoirs are a prime destination for angling. Reservoir No. 1 is renowned for carp, with many double-figure catches reported, and also holds bream, roach, perch, and pike. Reservoir No. 2 is well-regarded for bream and large pike. Fishing on some lodges, like No. 1, may require membership with the Wigan & District Angling Association, while day tickets might be available for others. Night fishing on Reservoir No. 1 requires a special permit.

Absolutely. The Heapey Reservoirs are popular with dog walkers, offering peaceful and scenic environments. The Roddlesworth Reservoirs also welcome dogs, provided they are kept on a lead to protect local wildlife.

The area boasts interesting historical elements. Entwistle Reservoir features a historic dam that was once the highest in England, built in 1832. The Lower Rivington Reservoir, part of the Rivington chain, was constructed between 1852 and 1857 to supply water to Liverpool, showcasing significant Victorian engineering.

You'll find amenities near some of the popular spots. Entwistle Reservoir has two pubs and a coffee shop nearby. Brockholes Nature Reserve features a floating cafe and visitor center. Near Lower Rivington Reservoir, there are also plenty of cafes available.

Beyond walking, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy gravel biking with routes like the 'Entwistle Reservoir – View of Belmont Reservoir loop' or 'Roddlesworth Reservoirs – Withnell Canal Towpath Access loop'. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails such as the 'Ice Cream Chute Downhill Trail' near Rivington Pike. For more details on routes, check the Gravel biking around Heapey or MTB Trails around Heapey guides.

Yes, there are several cycling opportunities. You can cycle on the Guild Wheel Cycle Route through Brockholes Nature Reserve. Other routes include the 'Leeds & Liverpool Canal – Leeds and Liverpool Canal Path loop' or the 'View of North West England – White Coppice Waterfall loop'. Find more cycling options in the Cycling around Heapey guide.

Yes, there is ample parking available, making access to the Heapey Reservoirs convenient for both fishing and walking. Entwistle Reservoir also offers plenty of free parking.

The Heapey Reservoirs are notable for their blend of angling opportunities and natural beauty, set within the picturesque countryside near the West Pennine Moors. They are particularly known among anglers for their diverse fish populations, including a very dark, old, and photogenic strain of carp in Reservoir No. 1, and significant bream and pike in Reservoir No. 2.

The lakes offer a peaceful ramble at any time of year, especially the Roddlesworth Reservoirs with their mature woodland. For fishing, anglers note that Heapey Reservoir No. 2 fishes best on dull days with a good westerly wind. Generally, the area is enjoyable year-round for walks and appreciating nature.