Top 4 Lakes around Hilton
Best lakes to visit near Hilton, a village in Derbyshire, England, offer a mix of natural reserves and parkland settings. The area features diverse landscapes, from tranquil nature reserves to expansive parks with water features. These locations provide opportunities for outdoor activities centered around lakes and natural habitats.
Best lakes around Hilton
- The most popular lakes is Markeaton Park, a park with a lake that is the most visited park in the Derby area. It features streams and a…
Last updated: August 8, 2026
Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve
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Carvers Rocks Nature Reserve
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Markeaton Park
Highlight • Cafe
The Mundy family owned the area from 1516 …
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Branston Water Park – The Gravs
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Heritage Wood
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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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Carvers Rocks is situated at the southern tip of Foremark Reservoir and is a designated 280-acre (113-hectare) nature reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) managed by the National Trust and Seven Trent. The area includes woodland, lowland heath, beautiful open countryside, and the open water of Foremark Reservoir. It is a haven for all types of wildlife , especially birds. There are a variety of recreation activities here, including woodland walks along with car parking and toilets.
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Markeaton Park is the most visited park in the Deby area attracting over one million visitors per year. It's about 207 acres. The Mundy family owned the area from 1516 until they gave the park to Derby council in the early 20th century.
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A beautiful park with lots of open spaces, information about flora and fauna, streams and a lake, as well as a small coffee shop.
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Nice spot, shame about the noise from the A50.
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For Covid-19 period, a one way (clockwise) circuit of the lake has been introduced. Please follow the signs
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for a relaxing walk near Hilton?
For a tranquil experience, consider Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve, which offers a calming 1.5 to 2-mile loop around its lake. Branston Water Park – The Gravs also features a pleasant circuit around its lake.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Hilton?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Markeaton Park is a highly visited park with a lake, streams, and open spaces. Branston Water Park – The Gravs and Heritage Wood, with its scenic lake and picnic tables, are also excellent family-friendly options.
Where can I find parking at the lakes near Hilton?
Car parking is available at the entrance to Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve, located alongside the road.
Are dogs allowed on walks around the lakes?
At Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve, it's important to note that most of the paths do not allow dogs. Please check local signage for specific rules at other locations.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the nature reserves?
Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve is known for being full of wildlife, offering a calming place despite nearby road noise. Heritage Wood's lake is populated by very large carp, though fishing is not permitted.
Are there cafes or places to get refreshments near the lakes?
Yes, Markeaton Park has a small coffee shop. Additionally, Longford Fisheries Café is a welcoming spot by the lakes, offering a simple menu of breakfasts and hot drinks with attractive prices and friendly staff.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The area around Hilton offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, hiking, and cycling. For detailed routes and guides, explore the Gravel biking around Hilton, Hiking around Hilton, and Cycling around Hilton guides.
Are there any good viewpoints of the lakes?
Branston Water Park – The Gravs is noted as a viewpoint. Heritage Wood also offers a very scenic lake surrounded by picnic tables.
What makes Markeaton Park a popular destination?
Markeaton Park is the most visited park in the Derby area, attracting over a million visitors annually. It spans 207 acres, featuring open spaces, streams, a lake, and a coffee shop, making it a beautiful and versatile destination.
Can I fish in the lakes around Hilton?
While some areas like Heritage Wood have lakes populated by large carp, fishing is explicitly not allowed there. For specific fishing opportunities, it's best to check local regulations for each lake.
What is the history behind Markeaton Park?
Markeaton Park was owned by the Mundy family from 1516 until they gifted the park to Derby council in the early 20th century, making it a site with significant local history.
Are there any hidden gems among the lakes near Hilton?
Hilton Gravel Pits Nature Reserve is often described as a calming place with hardly any visitors, full of wildlife, making it a peaceful hidden gem for those seeking tranquility.
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