Top 14 Lakes around Brassington
Best lakes around Brassington are found in the Derbyshire Dales, a region characterized by its rolling hills and scenic waterways. The area is centered around Brassington, a village that provides access to both large reservoirs and smaller, more secluded bodies of water. These natural features offer diverse opportunities for outdoor activities and provide a tranquil setting for visitors. The landscape combines open water with woodlands and varied terrain, making it a destination for those seeking natural beauty and walking routes.
…Last updated: May 31, 2026
Carsington Water
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Mill Pond
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Whitworth Park Pond
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Osmaston Park Sawmill
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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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"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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The Whitworth building and park are steeped in Victorian industrial history. Lady Louisa Whitworth, wife of the industrialist Sir Joseph Whitworth, had a vision of creating a place where people could meet for leisure, recreational and educational purposes. The Whitworth is unique in that it is the only surviving Whitworth foundation that continues to operate under the terms of its original endowment. Once a Victorian boating lake the ponds are now home to an abundance of wildlife all year round.
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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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White Peak Loop trail goes through the park behind The Whitworth. It's scenic but a bit stop-start when avoiding pedestrians and following the gates and signs. If I'm on my road bike, I just tend to use the quiet lane near the railway crossing and rejoin trail further up towards Rowsley.
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The strong winds are very powerful across the dam wall. Those who cycle with children may want to use the road for the dam wall section on these occasions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes and water features to visit around Brassington?
The most popular lake is Carsington Water, a large reservoir offering an 8-mile circular trail for walking and cycling. Other notable spots include Osmaston Park Sawmill, known for its historical significance and old timber mill water wheel, and Mill Pond, a tranquil area that was once a quarry.
Are there family-friendly activities at the lakes near Brassington?
Yes, several locations are ideal for families. Carsington Water features a visitor centre, a children's play area, and accessible paths. Mill Pond and Whitworth Park Pond are also considered family-friendly spots, offering tranquil settings and opportunities to observe wildlife.
What kind of walking and cycling trails are available around the lakes?
The area offers diverse trails. Carsington Water has a popular 8-mile (14.5 km) circular trail suitable for walking, cycling, and dog walking, featuring bird hides and scenic viewpoints. For more options, you can explore various cycling routes like the 'Carsington Water family loop' or hiking trails such as 'Harboro' Rocks & Brassington loop' in the cycling and hiking guides for Brassington.
Are there any historical sites or unique natural features near the lakes?
Beyond the lakes themselves, you can visit Osmaston Park Sawmill, which showcases an old timber mill water wheel and historical significance. Mill Pond also has a history as a former quarry converted into a reservoir. Further afield, about 23.5 miles away, is the unique Mermaid's Pool, known for its folklore and dramatic moorland scenery.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Brassington?
The lakes around Brassington are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for outdoor activities like cycling and walking. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can provide a tranquil, less crowded experience, though some trails might be muddy. Always check local conditions before your visit.
Are the trails around the lakes dog-friendly?
Yes, many trails around the lakes are dog-friendly. The 8-mile circular trail around Carsington Water is popular for dog walking. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near wildlife and livestock, and to clean up after them.
Where can I find amenities like cafes and toilets near the lakes?
Carsington Water is well-equipped with a visitor centre, cafes, and toilets. For other areas, Brassington village itself offers pubs and cafes. It's advisable to check specific locations for available facilities before heading out.
Are there any less crowded spots for a tranquil experience?
While Carsington Water can get busy, especially on weekends, smaller bodies of water like Maddock Lake (adjacent to Brassington) or Mill Pond offer a more tranquil and less commercialized natural spot for those seeking peace and quiet.
What kind of wildlife can be spotted around the lakes?
The lakes and surrounding woodlands are home to diverse wildlife. Carsington Water has bird hides for observing various bird species. Whitworth Park Pond is also known for its abundance of wildlife year-round. The natural areas provide habitats for birds, insects, and small mammals.
Are there accessible routes for visitors with limited mobility?
Carsington Water offers accessible paths, particularly around its visitor centre and parts of its circular trail, making it a good option for visitors with limited mobility. It's always best to check specific route conditions for accessibility before your visit.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Brassington?
Visitors frequently praise the scenic beauty and the variety of outdoor activities available. The well-maintained trails, opportunities for wildlife spotting, and the peaceful atmosphere are often highlighted. The historical context of sites like Osmaston Park Sawmill and Mill Pond also add to the appeal.
Can I go running on trails near the lakes?
Yes, the area is suitable for running. Carsington Water offers a popular circular run. You can find more detailed running routes, including 'Harboro Rocks loop' and 'Carsington Water circular run', in the running trails guide for Brassington.
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