Lakes around Hincaster are situated in Westmorland and Furness, England, near the Lake District. The region features diverse natural beauty, including prominent lakes and smaller mountain tarns. While Hincaster itself does not host large lakes, the surrounding area offers various water bodies for exploration. Many bodies of water in the Lake District are referred to as "meres" or "waters," with Bassenthwaite Lake being an exception.
Last updated: August 9, 2026
Highlight • Cafe
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The Holme Mills were originally a corn mills but change to flax in the 19th century and later to a coconut matting mill. The mill carried on being used for matting up until the 1970's. Apparently in its heyday as a matting mill it had up to 300 workers. The surrounding houses were built by the Quakers owners in the early/mid 19th century in order to house the workers at the mill.
0
0
A visit to the reserve is highly recommended. However, there is now an entry fee: £5 for cyclists.
1
0
It is well worth visiting the castle and gardens. I was particularly impressed by the rock garden.
0
0
I think Kenny's above tip refers to the Hawes Water in the Lake District.
2
0
Hawes Water, sometimes called Hawes Tarn on the Gait Barrows National Nature Reserve is one of only two natural fresh-water lakes in Lancashire, along with Marton Mere. Unlike its big namesake in the Lake District it is a small lake but quite deep at 30 metres. Great centre for both birdlife and insects.
0
0
Sizergh as a number of different gardens including a mirror lake, colourful herbaceous border, working kitchen garden, apple orchard and limestone rock garden.
1
0
Hawes water, positioned as the easternmost lake within the Lake District, serves a crucial role as a reservoir. In 1940, the eastern side of the lake was dammed, resulting in the flooding of Mardale valley and the submersion of the village of Mardale. During periods of drought, the submerged village resurfaces, a highly anticipated event cherished by both locals and visitors.
1
1
Visitors frequently enjoy the expansive views from Estuary and Clifftop Views of Morecambe Bay, the historical charm of Sizergh Castle and Gardens with its mirror lake, and the unique story of Hawes Water, known for its submerged village. The Leighton Moss Nature Reserve is also a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
Yes, several spots are great for families. Sizergh Castle and Gardens offers extensive grounds and a mirror lake, perfect for exploration. Hawes Water is also considered family-friendly, and the Leighton Moss Nature Reserve provides facilities and wildlife viewing opportunities suitable for all ages.
The region offers rich history. Sizergh Castle and Gardens is a medieval fortified manor house with a fascinating history and beautiful grounds. Additionally, the View of Holme Mills provides a glimpse into the area's industrial past, with a former corn, flax, and coconut matting mill.
While Hincaster itself doesn't have prominent lakes, the wider Lake District area offers opportunities for wild swimming. Wast Water, though a bit further afield, is known for its clear waters and is a popular spot for a dip on warm days. Eel Tarn also offers a refreshing, cautious dip in a wild setting.
The area boasts diverse natural beauty. Wast Water is England's deepest lake, framed by dramatic mountains. Hawes Water is a reservoir where the submerged village of Mardale can resurface during droughts. The Leighton Moss Nature Reserve features unique saltmarsh habitats supporting rare wildlife like bitterns and red deer.
Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. You can find various routes, including easy walks like 'The Avenue at Levens Park' or more challenging hikes such as 'The Mushroom on Scout Scar'. For detailed routes and options, explore the Hiking around Hincaster guide.
Absolutely. The region offers a variety of cycling routes, from quiet back lanes to scenic loops. Options include 'Quiet Back Lanes to Staveley' for road cycling or 'Crosscrake Climb – Lancaster Canal Trail' for touring. More routes can be found in the Road Cycling Routes around Hincaster and Cycling around Hincaster guides.
Visitors particularly appreciate the quiet and beautiful sections of the Cumbria Coastal Way, offering expansive views across the sands. The landscape is described as incredible, especially when the tide is out. It's noted as an underrated area for walking with stunning views.
Hawes Water, located as the easternmost lake in the Lake District, serves as a crucial reservoir. It's famous for the submerged village of Mardale, which was flooded in 1940. During periods of drought, the village resurfaces, becoming a highly anticipated event for both locals and visitors.
Yes, the Leighton Moss Nature Reserve is a prime location for wildlife viewing. This RSPB reserve features saltmarsh habitats created for rare and beautiful wildlife, including bitterns, red deer, and Greylag geese. It has a visitor centre, shop, tea room, and observation hides.
In the Lake District, many bodies of water are traditionally referred to as 'meres' or 'waters' rather than 'lakes.' Bassenthwaite Lake is a rare exception. 'Tarns' are generally smaller mountain lakes, often found in corries or hollows, like Eel Tarn and Burnmoor Tarn, offering a wilder, untamed feel.
Yes, while the reserve was previously free, there is now an entry fee of £5 for cyclists and other visitors. The reserve is open from 9 am until dusk daily.
For a sense of unspoiled nature and tranquility away from the busiest spots, consider visiting Burnmoor Tarn. It's one of the largest completely natural tarns in the Lake District and offers a peaceful experience for those seeking less-trafficked areas.


Still not found your perfect lake around Hincaster? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.