Top 5 Lakes around Womersley
Lakes around Womersley are primarily found in its vicinity, offering diverse natural and recreational attractions. The area features significant nature reserves and local lakes, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. These bodies of water contribute to the natural landscape and offer various experiences for visitors.
Best lakes around Womersley
- The most popular lake is Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve, a facilities that was once a coal mine and is now a thriving haven for wildlife. It is an important breeding…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve
Highlight • Rest Area
Located between Leeds, Castleford and York, the area is managed by the RSPB.
rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/fairburn-ings
Tip by
Fairburn Ings Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Askern Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Frogspawn Factory, Fairburn Ings Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Pontefract Park Lake
Highlight • Lake
In the west, some small footpaths are created by fields.
Nice place for a night round :-)
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Womersley.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Lovely walk birds nesting at moment toilets and cafe sturdy paths disability scooter welcome small cafe and wild water swimming
0
0
Fairburn Ings nature reserve is managed by the RSPB. It used to be a coal mine but has been transformed over the last 60 years to a haven for wildlife. It's an important breeding and nesting site for water birds. The star species that you may see are Bittern, Willow Tit, Kingfisher, Tree Sparrow and Spoonbill. The visitor centre has information, toilets and a cafe. It's open 10:00 - 17:00 in the summer and 10:00 - 16:00 in the winter.
0
0
Fairburn Ings nature reserve is managed by the RSPB. It used to be a coal mine but has been transformed over the last 60 years to a haven for wildlife. It's an important breeding and nesting site for water birds. The star species that you may see are Bittern, Willow Tit, Kingfisher, Tree Sparrow and Spoonbill. The visitor centre has information, toilets and a cafe. It's open 10:00 - 17:00 in the summer and 10:00 - 16:00 in the winter.
0
0
Newton Lane runs from the A656 at Allerton Bywater in the west almost to Fairburn in the east. It passes through Fairburn Ings, an RSPB nature reserve. Once a centre of coal mining, it is now a varied habitat for wildlife, including the rare bittern and spoonbill. There is a cafe and toilets at the visitors centre about halfway along Newton Lane on the south side of the road,
0
0
Fairburn Ings is a former coal mining site that is now a nature reserve of grassland, deciduous woodland, wetlands and lagoons. Located between Leeds, Castleford and York, the area is managed by the RSPB. https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/fairburn-ings/
0
0
Lovely place to relax at side of lake, with a reasonable priced cafe, if this is closed the Flower shop cafe across the the road do excellent cake.
0
0
Great little cafe on the lake plus a bakers and a co-op, so it's a good place for a stop.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes near Womersley?
The Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve is a thriving haven for wildlife, especially water birds. Visitors have the chance to spot star species such as Bittern, Willow Tit, Kingfisher, Tree Sparrow, and Spoonbill. The reserve features grassland, deciduous woodland, wetlands, and lagoons, making it a rich habitat.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Womersley?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve offers sturdy paths, a visitor center with a cafe and toilets, and plenty of wildlife to observe. Pontefract Park Lake is part of a larger recreational area that includes a children's playground, perfect for a family outing. Askern Lake also has a cafe and is considered family-friendly.
Are the paths around the lakes accessible for everyone?
At Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve, the paths are sturdy and suitable for disability scooters, ensuring good accessibility for many visitors. Pontefract Park also offers small footpaths for leisurely strolls.
When is the best time to visit the lakes near Womersley?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve is open daily, from 10:00 to 17:00 in the summer and 10:00 to 16:00 in the winter, offering consistent access to its wildlife and facilities. Spring and autumn are particularly good for birdwatching.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the lakes?
Yes, there are options for refreshments. Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve has a visitor center with a cafe. Askern Lake also features a cafe right by the water, and nearby shops like a baker and a Co-op.
What kind of walking trails are available around the lakes?
You'll find various walking opportunities. Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve offers well-maintained paths through its diverse habitats. Pontefract Park Lake has small footpaths within the park. For more extensive hiking, you can explore routes like the easy 'Kirk Smeaton to Brockadale Nature Reserve loop' or moderate trails such as 'River Went at Kirk Smeaton – Brockadale Nature Reserve loop from Kirk Smeaton'. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around Womersley guide.
Are there running trails near the lakes around Womersley?
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity. You can find moderate routes like the 'Brockadale Nature Reserve – Brockadale Nature Reserve loop from Kirk Smeaton' (8.3 km) or the 'Syke House Windmill – Brockadale Nature Reserve loop from Kirk Smeaton' (12.3 km). More running options are available in the Running Trails around Womersley guide.
Do any of the lakes near Womersley have historical significance?
While not a prominent water feature today, Womersley Park historically featured a lake. An 1805 enclosure map shows a lake running parallel to Womersley Beck, and evidence suggests it may have been constructed before 1750. The estate also had fishponds in the 19th century. This historical aspect adds an interesting layer to the local landscape.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Womersley?
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich biodiversity and well-maintained facilities at Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve, making it excellent for birdwatching and enjoying nature. The cafes at both Fairburn Ings and Askern Lake are also highly valued for relaxation. The recreational aspects of Pontefract Park Lake, including its playground, are popular with families.
Can I find easy hiking routes near the lakes?
Absolutely. There are several easy hiking routes nearby, such as the 'Kirk Smeaton to Brockadale Nature Reserve loop' (3.6 km) and the 'Brockadale Nature Reserve loop from Kirk Smeaton' (3.3 km). These provide gentle walks through scenic areas. For more options, refer to the Easy hikes around Womersley guide.
Most popular attractions around Womersley
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Womersley? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
