Top 9 Lakes around Helmsley
Best lakes around Helmsley are found in the surrounding North Yorkshire area, as the market town itself is situated on the River Rye. This region offers a diverse natural landscape, featuring tranquil woodlands, dramatic cliffs, and open moorland. The area is known for its natural beauty and provides various recreational opportunities for visitors.
Best lakes around Helmsley
- The most popular lakes is Gormire Lake, a lake that is tranquil and surrounded by lush woodland. It is popular for wild swimming due to its clean and warm waters.
- Another must-see spot is Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve, a lake within a peaceful woodland nature reserve. It features diverse ecosystems, from bilberry and heather moorland to birch, oak, and holly woodland.
- Visitors also love Lower Fish Pond, a picturesque lake with well-managed tracks and paths. On sunny days, the water exhibits blue colors, creating a scenic view.
- Helmsley is known for tranquil natural lakes, woodland ponds, and scenic water features. The variety of lakes provides options for walking, nature observation, and peaceful reflection.
- The lakes around Helmsley are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 160 upvotes and 49 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Gormire Lake
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve
Highlight • Lake
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
Lower Fish Pond
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Higher Fish Pond, Yearsley Woods
Highlight • Natural
Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; the other one has been drained since and is essentially a marshland now.
Tip by
Nettle Dale ponds
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Helmsley.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Helmsley
North York Moors National Park – A Walk in the Parks
Ebor Way – Discover Yorkshire's scenic splendour
Road Cycling in North York Moors National Park
North York Moors National Park Cycle Routes
North York Moors Cycleway
Walk Britain – 90 car-free adventures in England, Wales and Scotland
Lovely pushchair friendly walks in and around the North York Moors
Purple heather, golden sand and classic hiking – North York Moors
Hiking around Helmsley
Gravel biking around Helmsley
Other adventures around Helmsley
Tips from the Community
Gormire Lake is a natural lowland lake that lies at the foot of Whitestone Cliff, a western escarpment of the Hambleton Hills
0
0
Meaning "filthy swamp", there are many local legends and myths surrounding this lake, such as it is bottomless (it is 6.5m deep) and was created by an earthquake that swallowed a village resulting in the lake today (it is a glacial lake).
0
0
The public footpath down to the nature reserve from the Cleveland Way (at the location on OS maps marked as "Great Relief Pot") is reasonably steep, but can be very narrow in places with short wooden planks driven into the ground along the downward side of the path, presumably to prevent the path from eroding and collapsing. In other places there are plenty of stones and tree roots to help stabilise your ascent/descent. As you approach Gormire Lake look out for a very curious and quite large boulder that is almost an 8-10 foot high perfect cube. The nature reserve consists of ancient woodland and is very peaceful. Easy to access the water's edge at Gormire Lake.
1
0
Cleveland Way runs the length of the southern side of this chain of lakes, but there is a short bridleway to the north of the westernmost edge of the lakes, which takes you up a climb to Dick Wood, just east of Old Byland. Lots of waterfowl and ducks.
0
0
This is one fabulous place to be: a very picturesque and beautiful little lake, with little piers on its banks in a few places. The tracks and paths around it are well-managed (thus easy to run on). On a sunny day, the waters get amazingly blue colours and the scene is truly Impressionistic!
1
0
This is a lovely little lake in Yearsley Woods to jog your way up to. Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; the other one has been drained since and is essentially a marshland now.
1
0
This is one fabulous place to be: a very picturesque and beautiful little lake, with little piers on its banks in a few places. The tracks and paths around it are well-managed, not to mention the swans. On a sunny day, the waters get amazingly blue colours and the scene is truly Impressionistic!
1
0
This is a lovely little lake in Yearsley Woods to walk to. Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; the other one has been drained since and is essentially a marshland now.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most tranquil lakes to visit near Helmsley?
For a serene experience, Gormire Lake is highly recommended, surrounded by lush woodland and known for its peaceful atmosphere. The Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve also offers a tranquil setting with diverse ecosystems.
Are there any lakes near Helmsley suitable for wild swimming?
Yes, Gormire Lake is a popular spot for wild swimming. Its waters are noted for being clean, surprisingly warm, and without currents, making it an inviting place for a dip.
Which lakes offer good walking paths for a leisurely stroll?
Lower Fish Pond in Yearsley Woods features well-managed tracks and paths around its banks, perfect for a pleasant walk. Higher Fish Pond, also in Yearsley Woods, provides another lovely option for a peaceful woodland walk.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Helmsley?
Yes, both Lower Fish Pond and Higher Fish Pond in Yearsley Woods are considered family-friendly, offering pleasant walking paths suitable for all ages.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around these lakes?
The lakes around Helmsley are set within diverse natural landscapes. At Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve, you'll find dramatic cliffs, bilberry and heather moorland, and ancient woodland with birch, oak, and holly trees. The Fish Ponds in Yearsley Woods are surrounded by picturesque woodland.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Helmsley?
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the wider Helmsley area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy, moderate, and difficult options, as well as gravel biking and road cycling routes. For more details, explore the guides for Hiking around Helmsley, Gravel biking around Helmsley, and Road Cycling Routes around Helmsley.
Are there specific hiking trails near Gormire Lake?
Yes, the Cleveland Way offers stunning views overlooking Gormire Lake. There are also public footpaths leading down to the Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve from the Cleveland Way, though some sections can be steep and narrow.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near Helmsley?
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but sunny days are particularly rewarding, especially at Lower Fish Pond where the water can exhibit 'amazingly blue colours.' Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer temperatures for activities like wild swimming, while autumn provides vibrant foliage.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near Helmsley?
Visitors frequently praise the serene atmosphere, natural beauty, and the opportunities for peaceful walks. The clean, warm waters of Gormire Lake make it a favorite for wild swimming, while the picturesque settings of the Fish Ponds are appreciated for photography and leisurely strolls.
Are there any hidden gem lakes or less-known spots worth exploring?
While not entirely hidden, Nettle Dale ponds offer a beautiful stretch of water, though it's on private land. The area is known for great photo opportunities and is accessible via the Cleveland Way on its southern side, with a bridleway to the north leading to Dick Wood.
Can I find circular walks around the lakes?
Many of the paths around lakes like Lower Fish Pond and Higher Fish Pond are well-managed and lend themselves to circular routes within Yearsley Woods. For more extensive circular hikes in the broader area, you can consult the Hiking around Helmsley guide.
Is there a lake near Helmsley that is good for nature observation?
Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts. It's a Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to a diverse range of plants and wildlife, including various lichens, mosses, ferns, wildflowers, and waterfowl.
Most popular routes around Helmsley
Most popular attractions around Helmsley
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Helmsley? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
