Best lakes around Guilden Sutton are primarily found within the wider Cheshire countryside, offering diverse natural water features. Guilden Sutton, a village located approximately 3 miles east of Chester, serves as a convenient base for exploring these aquatic environments. The area features a mix of natural wetlands, reclaimed forest lakes, and dedicated fishing complexes. These locations provide opportunities for walking, wildlife observation, and various water-based activities.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
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Lovely ride through Delamere Forest. You can't go wrong on a mtb or emtb. I entered the forest at New Pale and went round lots of trails to the holiday lodges and came out on Waterloo Lane.
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It does get busy around the visitors' centre and the Gruffalo trail. However, if you ride up Pale Hill and follow the perimeter of the forest, there are plenty of quiet trails to explore. Keep your eyes peeled for single tracks going through the forest, there lots of off-the-beaten-path routes to follow if you look for them.
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Nice spot for a quiet rest as I cycle the country lanes into and out of Chester.
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amazing walk just cant take the path next to the hatch mere nature reserve because it's very deep mud at the moment
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Could become overgrown in summer or muddy if wet. Interest spot to see
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Lovely place for a quick stop...there's always plenty of birdlife on or around the pond. The ducks generally boss the place,so don't mess with them :-)
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Blakemere Moss at Delamere Forest is a reclaimed wetland area. The Moss was originally formed from two kettle holes (water filled hollows formed by a detached mass of glacial ice melted in situ towards the end of the last ice age). Delamere Forest is made up of more than 100 peatland basins and includes several sites of rare 'quaking' bogland, a phenomenon in which sphagnum mosses form a carpet above peaty water that appears to tremble when trodden on. The area was drained from the 1800's, supposedly by prisoners from the Napoleonic Wars and planted with trees, (mainly oak and Scot's Pine) between 1793-1815 to provide timber for shipbuilding. The Forestry Commission planted the moss with pine and western hemlock during the 1940s, which proved uneconomic. In the late 1990's the Commission allowed the area to re-flood again naturally.
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Around Guilden Sutton, you'll discover a variety of lake types, from natural wetlands and forest lakes within Delamere Forest to dedicated fishing complexes. Notable examples include the numerous small lakes at Whitefield, Delamere Forest, the biodiverse Blakemere Moss, and the tranquil Black Lake Nature Reserve, all within Delamere Forest. Additionally, Chester Lakes offers a complex of seven distinct fishing lakes.
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Whitefield, Delamere Forest, offers multi-use paths and is undergoing redevelopment to improve accessibility. The Chester Millennium Greenway, while not a specific lake, features general water features and is known for being family-friendly for walking and cycling. Christleton Duck Pond is also a lovely, quick stop for families to observe birdlife.
For birdwatching and wildlife, Blakemere Moss in Delamere Forest is an excellent choice. It's a Site of Special Scientific Interest rich in biodiversity, home to species like greylags, Canada geese, and mallards. Black Lake Nature Reserve is also known for its dragonflies, damselflies, and unusual mosses.
Yes, Chester Lakes is a dedicated fishery and leisure complex with seven distinct lakes, including Eccleston, Aldford, Pulford, and Dodleston Lake. These lakes are well-stocked with various fish species, primarily carp and silver fish, catering to both casual and serious anglers.
Chester Lakes provides comprehensive on-site facilities for visitors. These include a cafe, toilets, wash facilities, a tackle shop, and a large caravan/camping park with electric and water points. Dodleston Lake, in particular, offers electric hook-ups and allows parking and bivvy setup right by the water's edge.
Yes, there are numerous walking opportunities. Delamere Forest, home to Whitefield, Blakemere Moss, and Black Lake Nature Reserve, features many trails showcasing diverse wildlife. The Chester Millennium Greenway is also a scenic trail with general water features, suitable for walking. You can find various hiking routes in the area, such as those detailed in the Hiking around Guilden Sutton guide.
Delamere Forest, where lakes like Whitefield and Blakemere Moss are located, offers multi-use paths suitable for cycling. The Chester Millennium Greenway is also popular for cycling. For more specific routes, explore the Gravel biking around Guilden Sutton guide.
Blakemere Moss is a natural monument and reclaimed wetland area within Delamere Forest. It's a Site of Special Scientific Interest, formed from two kettle holes, and is notable for its 'quaking' bogland where sphagnum mosses form a trembling carpet over peaty water. Tree stumps from its past as a drained and planted area still poke through the water's surface, adding to its unique character.
Many outdoor areas around Guilden Sutton, including the trails within Delamere Forest and the Chester Millennium Greenway, are generally dog-friendly, making them suitable for walks with your canine companion. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife.
Beyond fishing and enjoying the serene rural setting, Chester Lakes can arrange additional activities for visitors. These include horse riding, paintballing, and quad biking, offering a range of options for a more active outing.
Yes, several running routes in the area incorporate scenic water features. For example, the Shropshire Union Canal Path – Christleton Duck Pond loop from Littleton is a popular option. You can find more running trails in the Running Trails around Guilden Sutton guide.
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and summer are ideal for wildlife observation, particularly for birdwatching at Blakemere Moss and spotting dragonflies at Black Lake Nature Reserve. Autumn brings beautiful foliage to Delamere Forest, while winter offers tranquil, crisp walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.


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