Top 17 Lakes around Winwick
Best lakes around Winwick are found in the surrounding Warrington area and bordering regions of Greater Manchester. While Winwick itself is a village, the vicinity offers diverse lakes with unique features and recreational opportunities. These water bodies include natural formations and "flashes" created by mining subsidence, now serving as significant natural reserves. The landscape provides varied terrain for outdoor activities and wildlife observation.
Best lakes around Winwick
- The most popular lakes is Scotman's Flash, a lake that is a…
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Scotman's Flash
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Carr Mill Dam
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Walton Hall
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Lymm Village and Pond
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Lymm Dam
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Walton Hall is a country house in Walton, Warrington, Cheshire. It is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade II listed building. The hall and its surrounding garden and grounds are owned and administered by Warrington Borough Council and open to the public. Sir Gilbert Greenall (1806–1894) built Walton Hall in 1836. He was the son of Edward Greenall (1758–1835) who had purchased the Walton Estate in 1812. At this time there was an old hall on the property north east of the present building which has since been demolished. When his father died in 1835, Gilbert inherited the Walton Estate. In the following year he married Mary Claughton. In this year also he commenced building Walton Hall, a project which took two years. He was a partner in his long established family brewing firm of Greenall Whitley & Company with his brothers and made a large fortune. He invested his money in property and became part of the landed gentry. He became a Member of Parliament from 1847 until 1892 representing Warrington. He was also High Sheriff of Cheshire in 1873 and was a Justice of the Peace. He was a personal friend of Lewis Carroll whose father was the vicar in the nearby Church at Daresbury. He visited Carroll when he was at Oxford University and Carroll visited him at Walton Hall. A photo was taken by Carroll of the Hall in 1859 when he was there. Source: Wikipedia
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I've only just moved to this area. It's so beautiful for me and my dog for our local walk.
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If you go down to the sunken garden between Sextons and the flower shop, you'll see the force of the water from the lower dam into Slitten Brook, and it flows into the Bridgewater canal
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A Flash is a unique industrial legacy to Wigan and there are many around the Wigan area. Each are lakes formed as a result of mining subsidence. Scotsmans flash the largest of the “Wigan Flashes” is a designated site of scientific interest. This is due to the abundance of rare plant species, several species of orchid, extensive reed beds and migrating birds such as Reed and Sedge Warbler. Scotsmans flash is a beautiful place for a stop to enjoy the views.
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Scotman's Flash is just 10 minutes from the centre of Wigan featuring a huge lake and lots of exciting experiences for everyone to enjoy. Scotman's Flash is the perfect place for water sports, whether you’re brand new to canoeing, sailing and kayaking or want to get your game on with courses and qualifications to match your skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes to visit around Winwick?
The most popular lakes in the vicinity of Winwick include Scotman's Flash, known for its natural beauty and watersports, Lymm Dam, a picturesque nature reserve, and Lymm Village and Pond, offering a charming village setting. Pennington Flash and Carr Mill Dam are also highly regarded for their recreational opportunities and natural appeal.
Are there family-friendly lakes near Winwick?
Yes, several lakes around Winwick are great for families. Lymm Dam offers well-maintained paths suitable for pushchairs and woodlands for exploration. Pennington Flash features a children's play area, picnic spots, and easy circular routes. Lymm Village and Pond provides a pleasant stroll around the reservoir and a quaint village to explore.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do at the lakes near Winwick?
The lakes offer a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, and birdwatching at places like Lymm Dam and Pennington Flash. For watersports, Scotman's Flash is a hub for paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing. Angling is popular at Lymm Dam and Carr Mill Dam.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes near Winwick?
Absolutely. Many lakes offer excellent hiking opportunities. For easy walks, consider the circular routes at Pennington Flash or the paths around Lymm Dam. You can find more detailed hiking routes, including easy options like the 'Bewsey Park – Pond by Sankey Canal loop' or 'The General Elliot loop', in the Hiking around Winwick guide.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near Winwick?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer offer the best conditions for watersports, birdwatching, and leisurely walks. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, though some paths might be muddy. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
Are there any historical or geological points of interest at these lakes?
Yes, the lakes have interesting histories. Lymm Dam was formed in 1824 during road construction and features exposed sandstone rock dating back 250 million years. Pennington Flash and Scotman's Flash are 'flash' lakes, formed by mining subsidence, creating unique wetland habitats. Lymm Village and Pond is part of a designated conservation area with historic buildings.
Can I find cafes or pubs near the lakes?
Yes, you can. The village of Lymm, near Lymm Dam and Lymm Village and Pond, has a quaint center with independent shops, cozy pubs, and cafes. Pennington Flash also has an on-site cafe and picnic areas.
Are the lakes around Winwick accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs?
Some areas offer good accessibility. Lymm Dam has paths suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs in dry conditions. Pennington Flash also features extensive tracks and footpaths that are generally accessible. It's always advisable to check specific trail conditions before visiting.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at these lakes?
The lakes are rich in wildlife. Lymm Dam is home to ducks, herons, swans, and kingfishers. Pennington Flash is a renowned birdwatcher's paradise with over 230 recorded bird species, including black-faced bunting and marsh harriers, plus various butterflies and dragonflies. Scotman's Flash also supports diverse flora and fauna, including willow tits and bitterns.
Are there mountain biking trails near the lakes?
Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities in the wider area. While not directly at every lake, you can find routes like the 'Bridgewater Canal – Jackson's Boat loop' or 'Wildlife on Sankey Canal – Sankey Canal loop' which offer moderate difficulty. For more details, refer to the MTB Trails around Winwick guide.
Where can I park when visiting the lakes?
Parking is generally available at the popular lake destinations. Lymm Dam has nearby parking, including some free options. Pennington Flash also offers parking facilities for visitors. It's recommended to check specific location details for current parking information.
What makes the 'flash' lakes unique?
The 'flash' lakes, such as Pennington Flash and Scotman's Flash, are unique because they were formed by mining subsidence. This industrial legacy created depressions in the land that subsequently filled with water, forming ecologically valuable wetland habitats. They are now significant nature reserves, supporting diverse wildlife.
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