Top 6 Lakes around Alkmonton
Lakes around Alkmonton, a small village in the Derbyshire Dales, offer various natural and historical points of interest. While Alkmonton itself is known for its historical significance, including medieval settlement earthworks, the surrounding area provides access to several lakes and natural spaces. These locations are suitable for exploring the local landscape and enjoying outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Alkmonton
- The most popular lakes is Osmaston Park Sawmill, a historical site featuring a sawmill by a lake. This location offers…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Osmaston Park Sawmill
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Shirley Park Woodland and Pond
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Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve
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Flying Birds Sculpture at JCB Lake
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Heritage Wood
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Tips from the Community
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 wood that has been created for remembering various people who have passed away (their friends and relatives can buy and dedicate a tree in their memory). The wood is open to all and is a nice place to stop for a picnic. There are many, many picnic tables spread throughout the site. https://www.heritage-wood.co.uk/ Very scenic lake surrounded by picnic tables and populated by HUGE carp (absolutely no fishing!)
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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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Osmaston Estate is a beautiful park with plenty of ancient woodlands to explore. It is well worth planning a route which ventures through this park. The sawmill is a beautiful building located by the lake and immediately adjacent to the footpath. It is surrounded by steep bank covered with a verdant forest of very tall trees. Parking is easy on the street in both nearby Shirley & Osmaston villages.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes near Alkmonton?
The lakes around Alkmonton offer a variety of natural settings. You can find ancient woodlands, such as those surrounding Osmaston Park Sawmill, and parklands like Shirley Park Woodland and Pond. There are also nature reserves, such as Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve, known for its wildlife and calming atmosphere.
Are there any historical sites associated with the lakes near Alkmonton?
Yes, the area combines natural beauty with historical interest. Osmaston Park Sawmill is a notable historical site by a lake, featuring an old timber mill water wheel. The village of Alkmonton itself is recognized for its historical significance, including medieval settlement earthworks, though these are not directly by the lakes.
What do visitors typically enjoy most about the lakes in this area?
Visitors appreciate the tranquil and scenic environments. Places like Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve are noted for their calming atmosphere and wildlife. The ancient woodlands and parklands, such as those at Osmaston Estate and Shirley Park, are popular for walks and enjoying the natural landscape.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities near Alkmonton?
Yes, several locations are suitable for families. Osmaston Park Sawmill and Shirley Park Woodland and Pond are both categorized as family-friendly. Additionally, Heritage Wood, which features a scenic lake, is open to all and has many picnic tables, making it ideal for a family outing.
Are there accessible trails around the lakes near Alkmonton?
Yes, Flying Birds Sculpture at JCB Lake offers flat and wheelchair-accessible paths around its ornamental lake, making it suitable for all visitors.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes around Alkmonton?
While many outdoor areas in the UK are dog-friendly, it's important to check specific rules. For example, at Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve, most of the paths do not allow dogs, so it's best to confirm policies for each specific location you plan to visit.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, can I do near the lakes around Alkmonton?
The area around Alkmonton offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy and moderate loops, and there are also options for mountain biking and running. For detailed routes, you can explore the hiking guide, MTB trails guide, and running trails guide for the Alkmonton area.
Are there specific hiking trails recommended near these lakes?
Yes, there are several recommended hiking trails. For an easy walk, consider the 6.8 km loop from Edlaston and Wyaston CP that connects Osmaston Park Sawmill and Shirley Park Woodland and Pond. For more options, refer to the hiking guide around Alkmonton.
Where can I find parking when visiting the lakes?
Parking is generally available near the popular lake spots. For Osmaston Park Sawmill, street parking is easy in nearby Shirley & Osmaston villages. Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve also has car parking at its entrance alongside the road.
Are there any pubs or places to eat near the lakes?
While specific pubs are not directly adjacent to every lake, the surrounding villages like Shirley and Osmaston, and the wider Alkmonton area, offer local establishments. For example, hiking routes in the area often include loops that pass by pubs like The Saracen's Head or The Shoulder of Mutton Pub, which you can find in the hiking guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Alkmonton?
The lakes around Alkmonton can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather for walks and picnics, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the landscapes can be serene, though some paths might be muddy. Always check local conditions before your visit.
Are there options for longer walks or circular routes around the lakes?
Yes, many of the lake areas are integrated into longer walking routes. For instance, Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve offers a loop walk of about 1.5 to 2 miles. The woodlands around Shirley Park Woodland and Pond also make for a great loop, either from Shirley or as part of a longer walk from Ashbourne. You can find various circular routes in the hiking guide.
Most popular attractions around Alkmonton
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