Top 20 Lakes around Barlow
Best lakes around Barlow are situated near the edge of the Peak District in Derbyshire, UK. This area features a landscape of woodlands, open moorlands, and valleys. The region is characterized by its various reservoirs and natural ponds, providing settings for outdoor activities. It offers a mix of natural beauty and developed parklands, making it accessible for different types of visitors.
Best lakes around Barlow
- The most popular lakes is Southeast corner of Linacre Middle Reservoir, a trail and…
Last updated: July 28, 2026
Southeast corner of Linacre Middle Reservoir
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Emperor Lake at Chatsworth
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Brick Sphere Sculpture, Holmebrook Valley Park
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Walton Dam
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Stubbing Pond Boathouse
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Tips from the Community
Impressive lake on the Chatsworth estate, was very slippy and muddy so take your time
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Stubbing Pond's history is connected to the industrial past of the Wingerworth area. The pond was created as a source of water power for various activities, including the operation of a smithy. The dam for Stubbing Great Pond was constructed around 1700. From the pond, one can see Stubbing Court, the ancestral home of the Hunloke family.
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The 6th Duke tasked Paxton with engineering a new record-breaking gravity-fed fountain in anticipation of a visit by Tsar Nicholas 1 in 1844. The 8-acre Emperor lake was fed by streams that collected rain falling on the high ground. The pipe from the Emperor lake drops 122 metres down to the fountain. In places, trenches up to 4.5 metres deep were cut through rock to maintain the gradient, and all before mechanical diggers were invented. The resulting water pressure was enough to enable the fountain to reach heights of 90 metres and for 160 years, the Emperor Fountain was the tallest gravity-fed fountain in the world.
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Emperor Lake at Chatsworth, built by Joseph Paxton, is an 8-acre lake that feeds the Emperor Fountain, once the tallest gravity-fed fountain in the world, and powers a turbine providing electricity to Chatsworth House.
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Good foot paths around Linacre , very wet and muddy once you leave them . Good waterproof boots and gaiters recommend .
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Walton Dam was built in the 18th century to provide a water supply for Walton Manor Corn Mill. The site was bought by Robinson’s in 1899, as a source of water for their cotton wool production. Later it provided an area for sporting and leisure activities for staff. Chesterfield Swimming Club also held events there.
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There are three beautiful reservoirs at Linacre, aptly named Lower, Middle, and Upper, going from east to west. The reservoirs are surrounded by fields and woodland with a network of trails and footpaths. The woods are beautiful and include oak, beech, alder, larch, and pine, and in the springtime they are carpeted with bluebells. It is a scenic area, and there is a public car park on the northern edge of the woods of the Lower Reservoir.
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Well worth a visit. A circular walk taking in Northedge-Alton & Bolehill gives great views to Bolsover, Chesterfield, Hardwick and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Barlow?
The area around Barlow features a variety of water bodies, including several reservoirs, natural ponds like Longshaw Pond, and dedicated fishing lakes such as those at Barlow Country Club. These offer diverse environments for recreation and wildlife observation.
Are there easy walking trails around the lakes near Barlow?
Yes, many lakes around Barlow offer easy walking trails. For instance, the area around the Linacre Middle Reservoir is known for its mostly flat terrain, making it suitable for various activity levels. Walton Dam also provides a peaceful, easy walk. You can find more easy routes in the hiking guide for Barlow.
Which lakes are suitable for families with children?
Several lakes around Barlow are family-friendly. Southeast corner of Linacre Middle Reservoir is great for kids, featuring woods with trunk carvings. Holmebrook Valley Park, with its lake, is also a popular spot for families, offering cycling and walking paths. Walton Dam is ideal for family peddling and feeding ducks.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes near Barlow?
Yes, many areas around the lakes are dog-friendly. The Linacre Reservoirs, for example, are a popular spot for walks with dogs, offering extensive woodland and trails. Always ensure your dog is under control and check for any specific local restrictions.
What kind of wildlife can I observe around the lakes?
The lakes and surrounding woodlands are rich in wildlife. At Longshaw Pond, birdwatchers can spot ducks and herons. The Linacre Reservoirs are home to various bird species, and the woods are beautiful with oak, beech, alder, larch, and pine trees, and bluebells in springtime. You might even spot an occasional snake near the water at Linacre Upper Reservoir Boardwalk.
Are there cycling routes near the lakes?
Yes, there are several cycling opportunities. Holmebrook Valley Park has cycle paths around its lake, and its gravel paths link with other routes around Chesterfield. While the Linacre Reservoirs have well-surfaced tracks, cycling is generally permitted around the middle and lower reservoirs. For more options, check the cycling guide for Barlow.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Barlow?
The lakes around Barlow offer beauty throughout the year. Spring is particularly lovely with bluebells carpeting the woods around the Linacre Reservoirs. Summer is ideal for picnics and enjoying the serene environment. Autumn brings changing colors, and winter offers crisp walks, though tracks can get muddy in wet weather.
Are there any fishing opportunities at the lakes?
Yes, Barlow is well-known for its fishing lakes. The Barlow Country Club, located on the edge of the Peak District, is an extensive fishing complex with seven lakes, including coarse lakes, a specimen carp lake, and fly fishing lakes. They even offer fishing lessons for beginners.
Where can I find parking for the lakes near Barlow?
Public car parks are available at several locations. For the Linacre Reservoirs, there is a public car park on the northern edge of the woods of the Lower Reservoir. Holmebrook Valley Park also offers parking facilities. Longshaw Pond is located near the main car park of the Longshaw Estate.
Are there accessible options for visitors with mobility needs?
The Barlow Country Club, which features several fishing lakes, provides facilities for disabled anglers, including concrete pegs and easy access. For walks, areas with well-surfaced tracks like parts of the Linacre Reservoirs offer easier navigation, though some areas can get muddy in wet weather.
What kind of historical context do the lakes have?
Some lakes have interesting historical backgrounds. Longshaw Pond, for instance, was created around 1827 and once featured a boathouse and pier. The nearby lodge was built around the same time as a shooting retreat for the Duke of Rutland.
Are there mountain biking trails near the lakes?
Yes, the area around Barlow offers mountain biking opportunities. While Holmebrook Valley Park is good for getting started with wide gravel fire roads, the Linacre Reservoirs can link up to the Linacre MTB routes. For more challenging trails, consult the MTB Trails guide for Barlow.
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