RoutesPlannerFeaturesUpdates
App
Login or Signup
Get the App
Login or Signup
Routes
Places to see
Lakes
United Kingdom
England
West Midlands Region
Staffordshire
Lichfield

Hamstall Ridware

Top 9 Lakes around Hamstall Ridware

Best lakes around Hamstall Ridware are found within the Staffordshire countryside, offering a variety of aquatic environments. The region is characterized by its natural features, including several pools and sections of the River Blithe. Hamstall Ridware is home to a notable fishery, providing opportunities for angling and waterside recreation. These bodies of water contribute to the area's appeal for outdoor activities.

Best lakes around Hamstall Ridware

  • The most popular lakes is Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase, an MTB park that…

Last updated: October 30, 2026

Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase

Highlight • MTB Park

Really nice trails. Possibly only suitable for the bravest of beginners due to the variety of obstacles. Great chance to fine tune your mountain bike skills both on uphill and down hill courses

Tip by

See rides hereSend to Phone
Save

Fairoak Pools

Highlight • Lake

Just beautiful to watch the sunshine on the water. To sit in peace in the sunshine and take it all in.

Tip by

Save

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

Minster Pool

Highlight • Viewpoint

Minster Pool is a pretty reservoir situated to the south of Lichfield Catherdral. From the banks, you get a lovely view over the water and cathedral. The pool is fed by Leomansley and Trunkfield brooks.

Tip by

Save

Blithfield Reservoir Causeway

Highlight • Bridge

Blithfield reservoir was built in 1953 to supply drinking water to the surrounding area.
The reservoir and surrounding woodland have been designated as a a SSSI due to the important …

Tip by

Save

Stony Brook Pools

Highlight • Natural

Enjoy a moment on the footbridge to hear the rushing water beneath.

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Hamstall Ridware.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Hamstall Ridware

MTB Trails around Hamstall Ridware

Hiking around Hamstall Ridware

Road Cycling Routes around Hamstall Ridware

Cycling around Hamstall Ridware

Running Trails around Hamstall Ridware

Gravel biking around Hamstall Ridware

Tips from the Community

Richard
July 1, 2025, Fairoak Pools

may need to take detours due to festival dismantal or no access to other routes minor issue but amazing walk

0

0

Lovely place to stop mid ride to take in the scenery.

0

0

having just been in the area for 3 days and ridden all of these: Perry's blue, a new route post Commonwealth games, from the Birches visitor centre, is suitable for even the newest of MTB'ers - there is nothing technically hard. But there are some really fun berms even for experienced to enjoy and it has some good Red optional diversions as well. Follow the Dog is the next one up - a "light and fruity middling" Red - whilst some sections are steep, some are technical, some are loose/narrow/twisty - none are all 3 are at the same time. Suitable as a first time Red. And finally, Monkey is a proper hard red - some brutal sequential switchback climbs (Lung Buster), adverse camber rocky drops verging to "very dark oaky" red (Tom/Dick/Harry on Original Monkey). And the parts that are actually marked black are verging on Danny MacAskill.... Definitely not one for a first red.

6

0

Blithfield reservoir was built in 1953 to supply drinking water to the surrounding area. The reservoir and surrounding woodland have been designated as a a SSSI due to the important bird life in the area. The causeway that crosses the reservoir gives good views across the water so do stop and have a look around.

2

0

A gorgeous spot to rest on the blue route by the pool with a bench. If you sit here for long enough you might catch a sighting of the kingfisher on the hunt or fish coming to the surface to look for bugs.

0

0

A lovely view over the reservoir, but not the nicest road to ride, especially when there's a lot of traffic. 🌊

1

0

Road running thru lake

0

0

New additions to trails have opened in the last month or so! (May 2021) The blue has added some nice sections that give opportunity for progression with some easy berms and pump sections. The red some new jumps, berms and rock gardens at the start near the trail centre and birches valley car park

3

1

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular lakes to visit around Hamstall Ridware?

Visitors often enjoy the tranquil setting of Fairoak Pools, which offers a peaceful spot to observe the water. Another popular choice is the Blithfield Reservoir Causeway, providing excellent vantage points across the reservoir. For a blend of nature and history, Minster Pool near Lichfield Cathedral is also highly regarded.

Are there family-friendly lakes or spots around Hamstall Ridware?

Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Fairoak Pools is noted as family-friendly, offering a calm environment. The Blithfield Reservoir Causeway also welcomes families, providing scenic views. Additionally, Stony Brook Pools is a lovely place to stop and enjoy the scenery with children.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?

The lakes around Hamstall Ridware are set within the beautiful Staffordshire countryside. You can expect to see diverse aquatic environments, including various pools, sections of the River Blithe, and reservoirs. Many areas feature waterside trees, bushes, and bankside vegetation, creating tranquil settings. Highlights like Stony Brook Pools offer opportunities to hear rushing water and potentially spot wildlife like kingfishers.

Are there any historical sites or landmarks near the lakes?

Yes, Minster Pool in Lichfield is a significant historical site. It's a reservoir located directly south of Lichfield Cathedral and has a rich history, having been important for the cathedral's defense and used as a mill pond and fishery. The area around Minster Pool also features memorial gardens and a historic bridge.

What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?

Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Tree-Lined Pathway – Sunset View at Barton Marina loop from Yoxall', or explore running trails like 'The Meynell Ingram Arms loop from River Swarbourn'. For mountain biking enthusiasts, Monkey Trail, Cannock Chase, offers challenging trails. You can find more details on these activities in the Road Cycling Routes, Running Trails, and Cycling around Hamstall Ridware guides.

Are there specific trails for walking or hiking around the lakes?

While specific walking trails directly around every lake aren't detailed, many of the lake areas provide opportunities for leisurely strolls. For instance, the area around Fairoak Pools is suitable for walking. For more structured hiking or running, you can explore various routes in the wider Hamstall Ridware area, such as those listed in the Running Trails around Hamstall Ridware guide.

Is there fishing available at the lakes in Hamstall Ridware?

Yes, Hamstall Ridware is known for its recreational lakes and fishing pools. The notable Hamstall Fishery, situated on the edge of Hamstall Ridware, offers five distinct pools and a section of the River Blithe. It caters to anglers with diverse fishing opportunities, including specimen carp lakes and waters for brown trout, chub, dace, pike, and grayling.

What amenities are available for visitors at Hamstall Fishery?

Hamstall Fishery provides amenities such as the Fishermans' Lodge, where visitors can purchase snacks and drinks. For those looking to stay overnight, there are insulated 'Tardis Anglers Pods' on the Specimen Lake and a comfortable Lakeside Lodge with four bedrooms, capable of sleeping up to six people, complete with an open-plan kitchen, lounge, and dining area.

What is the best time to visit the lakes around Hamstall Ridware?

The Hamstall Fishery, a key attraction in the area, is open year-round, making the lakes accessible in all seasons. The natural setting with waterside trees and vegetation offers beauty throughout the year. For specific highlights like Fairoak Pools, visitors have noted that a sunny day enhances the experience, and early winter can offer beautiful sunset views.

Are there accessible options for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, Hamstall Fishery is noted for its accessibility, with many fishing pegs suitable for disabled anglers. For other lake areas, it's advisable to check specific location details, but efforts are made to ensure wider enjoyment of the natural surroundings.

Can I bring my dog to the lakes and trails?

While specific dog-friendly policies for every lake are not detailed, many outdoor areas in the UK countryside are generally welcoming to dogs on leads. It's always recommended to check local signage or specific venue rules, especially around nature reserves or private fisheries, to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in this region?

Visitors appreciate the peaceful and tranquil settings, often highlighting the opportunity to sit and enjoy the sunshine on the water, as noted for Fairoak Pools. The scenic views, such as those from the Blithfield Reservoir Causeway, are also a major draw. The blend of natural beauty and opportunities for relaxation or active pursuits makes the area appealing.

Most popular routes around Hamstall Ridware

MTB Trails around Hamstall Ridware

Most popular attractions around Hamstall Ridware

Bike Parks

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now
Store rating

Explore more

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

ShenstoneWeefordDrayton BassettWallHammerwichHintsLongdonArmitage With HandsacreLichfieldKing'S BromleySwinfen And PackingtonFarewell And ChorleyBurntwoodFazeleyMavesyn RidwareCurborough And ElmhurstWigginton And HopwasColtonFradley And StreethayClifton CampvilleWhittingtonEdingaleThorpe ConstantineElfordAlrewasFisherwickHarlaston

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Hoar Cross

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free
Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesRedeem a voucherHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy