Best lakes around Stoke Dry are primarily associated with Eyebrook Reservoir, a significant body of water located near the village. This area, situated on the border between Leicestershire and Rutland, features rolling countryside and broad-leaved woodland. Eyebrook Reservoir is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, recognized for its importance to wildfowl and historical connections, including its use by the RAF's No. 617 Squadron. The region offers opportunities for walks and appreciating natural landscapes.
Last updated: October 2, 2026
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not the worlds biggest climb up the hill there but my legs felt it - take it steady
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Nestled in the Welland Valley, Barrowden is an idyllic Rutland village. There is fantastic walking to the north around Rutland Water, while Wakerley Great Wood and Fineshade Wood both boast a network of trails to the southeast. Two long-distance trails pass through the village: the Jurassic Way and the Rutland Round. Walkers can find fuel and refreshment at the Exeter Arms.
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A lovely 102-acre (41 ha) country park, East Carlton is located near the town of Corby. It was once a deer park centred around a historic hall. The present iteration was built in 1870 in an Italianate style with French pavilion roofs. Today, the park contains beautiful woodland, small lakes, a dinosaur safari, a campsite, heritage centre and a cafe.
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Lovely place for a picnic, but be aware that most of the routes out involve some serious climbing for this part of the world. Like Norfolk, not all Rutland is as flat as many think.
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Great views from most of the way round. Don’t try and ride up to the reservoir from the south side (between Caldecott and Great Easton) or you’ll get very told off for trespassing at the reservoir wall!
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Quieter than nearby Rutland water. Couple of steep climbs to get back out of the reservoir.
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The primary water body is Eyebrook Reservoir, known for its natural beauty and historical significance. Other notable spots include the Rutland Water Cycle Route, which offers lake views, and the smaller lakes within East Carlton Country Park.
Eyebrook Reservoir is excellent for birdwatching, recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its wildfowl. You can also enjoy scenic shoreline walks, fly fishing for Rainbow Trout, and explore trails through rolling countryside and woodland. It's a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts.
Yes, East Carlton Country Park is a family-friendly option. This 102-acre park features beautiful woodland, small lakes, a cafe, and a heritage centre, offering a variety of activities for all ages.
Eyebrook Reservoir has a notable historical connection as a practice site for the RAF's No. 617 Squadron, famously known as 'The Dambusters,' prior to their iconic raid during World War II. This history is commemorated by a plaque along its shoreline.
Eyebrook Reservoir offers scenic shoreline walks and trails through surrounding woodlands. For easy hikes, you can explore routes like the 'Eyebrook Reservoir – View of Eyebrook Reservoir loop from Stoke Dry' or trails within East Carlton Country Park. More options are available in the Easy hikes around Stoke Dry guide.
Absolutely. The Rutland Water Cycle Route is a very popular option, offering a gravel track suitable for various bike types. For road cycling, you can find routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Stoke Dry guide, which include scenic loops near the reservoirs.
Eyebrook Reservoir is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, particularly important for wildfowl. Birdwatchers can spot diverse species including Ospreys, Wood Sandpipers, various gulls, dabbling ducks, and Smew in winter. The area around the inflow is especially active with birdlife.
Yes, Eyebrook Reservoir itself offers picturesque views, with some visitors likening westward views to Switzerland. Additionally, the View of Railway and Rutland Water from Manton Footpath provides nice views over Rutland Water.
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking and cycling, while autumn brings vibrant foliage. Winter can be excellent for birdwatching, especially at Eyebrook Reservoir, where you might spot Smew and other wildfowl.
Yes, there are several running trails. For example, you can find routes that incorporate views of Eyebrook Reservoir, such as the 'Uppingham Market Town – View of Eyebrook Reservoir loop from Uppingham'. More options are detailed in the Running Trails around Stoke Dry guide.
Yes, East Carlton Country Park has a cafe. For pubs, the village of Barrowden, which features Barrowden Village Green and Pond, has the Exeter Arms, offering refreshment after a walk.
While both offer scenic walks, Rutland Water is generally more popular and can get busy, especially on weekends, with a well-known cycle route. Eyebrook Reservoir is often described as quieter, offering tranquil walks and fly fishing, with some short climbs on its surrounding lanes.


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