Top 7 Lakes around Cubley
Lakes around Cubley, a parish in Derbyshire, offer diverse water bodies within the surrounding Derbyshire Dales area. Situated about 6 miles south of Ashbourne, the region provides access to various natural and man-made lakes. These locations feature opportunities for walking, exploring woodlands, and observing wildlife. The landscape combines picturesque parkland with historical sites.
Best lakes around Cubley
- The most popular lakes is Osmaston Park Sawmill, a historical site featuring a sawmill building by a lake, surrounded by ancient woodlands.…
Last updated: July 25, 2026
Dimmingsdale Mill Pond
Highlight • Structure
Lead smelting …
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Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural
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Osmaston Park Sawmill
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Shirley Park Woodland and Pond
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
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Flying Birds Sculpture at JCB Lake
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Tips from the Community
A 29 hectare Site of Special Scientific Interest. The reserve features a combination of lakes and ponds, woodland and sheltered sunny areas make the former gravel pits at Hilton a haven for wildlife. Look for kingfishers flashing blue over the water, herons, great crested grebes, and tufted ducks. It is famous for dragonflies and damselflies, with 15 species recorded here.
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The JCB factory west of Rocester has worked hard to incorporate itself into the landscape. The site includes parkland and an ornamental lake which is open to the public and maintained by JCB staff. There are several statues placed in and around the lake including this flying birds sculpture.
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The nearby village of Shirley was once the seat of Earl Ferrers and the Shirley family. The parkland and woods of the estate is still called Shirley Park although the grand house is no longer evident. Walking through the woodland and along the lake side is aa nice change to the farmland of the area. The woods make a great loop either from Shirley or for a longer walk from Ashbourne.
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Nice spot, shame about the noise from the A50.
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reasonabe incline gravel climbs on each side but a lovely place to view the lake and the old timber mill water wheel
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A pleasant nature reserve worth checking out if in the area. Despite the noises from the nearby A50, it is still a calming place with hardly any visitors, and full of wildlife. A loop around the nature reserve is about 1.5 - 2 miles and there are suggested routes on a board at the entrance. Car parking can be found at the entrance alongside the road. Note: most of the paths do not allow dogs.
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The smelting mill is now much altered and is a private residence, but the former mill pond is a very popular place with walkers in National Trust's Dimmingsdale. Lead smelting mill described as new in 1741 and converted to corn grinding in 1784. Single high breast water wheel and three pairs of stones. The Alton Mill, situated at the mouth of Dimmingsdale, is still known at the Smelting Mill even though it had longers use as a corn mill. In 1741 Geroge Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, leased out a 'newly erected building for the smelthing of lead commonly called a smelting mill, refinery and slag hearth...' at Alton Common. In 1760 lead was still being smelted and the site had a smiths shop, two houses, a barn, nine acres and a pool. The will of Edward Coyney, 1772, mentions his share in the mill along with his share in the mines at Ecton, which is the most likely source for the lead being produced at Dimmingsdale. Source: Churnet Valley Guide
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes and water bodies can I explore near Cubley?
Near Cubley, you can explore a variety of water bodies, including historical mill ponds, picturesque parkland lakes, and nature reserves. The region offers a mix of natural beauty and man-made features, providing diverse settings for walks and outdoor activities.
Are there any historical sites associated with the lakes near Cubley?
Yes, several lakes near Cubley have historical significance. For instance, Osmaston Park Sawmill features an old sawmill building by a lake, set within ancient woodlands. Another is Dimmingsdale Mill Pond, a former lead smelting and corn grinding mill pond within the National Trust's Dimmingsdale, offering both scenic walks and historical interest.
Which lakes near Cubley are suitable for families?
Several locations are family-friendly. Shirley Park Woodland and Pond offers a peaceful setting for walks through woodland and along the lakeside. Osmaston Park Sawmill is also noted as family-friendly, with ancient woodlands to explore. For a more active day, Carsington Water (a bit further afield) has a circular cycling and walking trail suitable for all ages and abilities, along with a visitor center and watersports.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting around the lakes?
Yes, areas like Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve are known for their wildlife, despite being near a main road. Mapperley Reservoir, a bit further out, is also excellent for wildlife and bird watching, surrounded by woodlands and farmland.
Where can I find easy or circular walks around lakes near Cubley?
For easy walks, Shirley Park Woodland and Pond offers a pleasant loop. Carsington Water, while a short drive, provides a popular circular cycling and walking trail around its perimeter. Errwood Reservoir in the Peak District also features a beautiful 5-mile circular walk.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths near the lakes?
Yes, the Flying Birds Sculpture at JCB Lake offers flat, accessible paths suitable for all visitors. The site includes parkland and an ornamental lake maintained by JCB staff.
What outdoor activities, besides walking, can I do near these lakes?
Beyond walking, you can enjoy various activities. Carsington Water is a hub for water sports like sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For angling enthusiasts, Birch House Lakes Fishery offers ten well-stocked fishing lakes. You can also find numerous cycling and running routes in the wider Cubley area. Explore more options on the Cycling around Cubley or Running Trails around Cubley guides.
Are there specific trails for gravel biking near the lakes?
Yes, the area around Cubley offers gravel biking opportunities. Routes like the 'Tissington Trail – Bradbourne Brook Ford loop' or the 'View of Carsington Water – Carsington Water loop' provide scenic rides. You can find more details and routes in the Gravel biking around Cubley guide.
Where can I find parking when visiting lakes near Cubley?
Parking is generally available at or near many of these locations. For Osmaston Park Sawmill, easy street parking can be found in the nearby villages of Shirley and Osmaston. Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve has car parking at its entrance alongside the road. Carsington Water also provides dedicated parking facilities.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Cubley?
Visitors appreciate the peaceful settings, the blend of natural beauty with historical elements, and the variety of walking opportunities. Many enjoy the change of scenery from farmland to woodlands and lakeside paths, as well as the chance to spot local wildlife. The community has shared over 90 upvotes and 11 photos, highlighting the appeal of these diverse water bodies.
Are there any cafes or facilities near the lake walks?
Carsington Water offers a visitor center and cafe facilities. Birch House Lakes Fishery, while primarily for angling, has a small lodge for food and drinks, along with flushing toilets. For other locations, it's advisable to check nearby villages like Shirley or Osmaston for local amenities before your visit.
Can I bring my dog to the lake trails?
Dog policies vary by location. While many outdoor areas are dog-friendly, some nature reserves have restrictions. For example, most paths at Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve do not allow dogs. Always check local signage or specific venue rules before bringing your dog.
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