Best lakes around Stainforth are found in South Yorkshire, near Doncaster. This area features a variety of water bodies, including ornamental lakes and those integrated into nature reserves and country parks. The region offers diverse aquatic environments suitable for outdoor activities and wildlife observation. These lakes provide habitats for numerous bird species and feature trails for exploration.
Last updated: March 30, 2026
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We often find the direction arrows on the way round confusing so we used komoot on my Garmin Venu 2 watch and it was very easy to follow.
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about 30 mins in you cannot turn right as instructed. follow path forward to re join route
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Highfields Lake is an ornamental lake in the Woodlands wildlife park at Highfields. It is filled by the Pick Burn, which then flows on to join the River Don as Bentley Mill Stream. The lake was originally built by the owners of Woodlands, a country house that lent its name to the model village built for the miners of Brodsworth Colliery. https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Highfields_Lake
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The Lakeside area is designed to encourage people to use Doncaster Lakeside for a range of activities and there are a variety of trails there. The lake also has natural edges that supports two main reed beds, which play a part in maintaining healthy water conditions. The reed beds are important habitats for water birds, especially at nesting time.
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More than 200 bird species have been recorded visiting Hatfield and Thorne Moor. Winter visitors include whooper swans, pink-footed geese, hen harrier, and short-eared owls. From March-July a very special summer visitor is the diminutive woodlark and also oystercatcher, lapwing, ringed plover and great crested grebe can be spotted around the lakes. Badger Corner Lake is a special place to watch your favourite birds.
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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.
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The most popular lakes in the Stainforth area, primarily located in South Yorkshire near Doncaster, include Doncaster Lakeside, known for its diverse activities and natural reed beds. Another favorite is Badger Corner Lake, highly regarded for birdwatching, and Highfields Lake, an ornamental lake within the Woodlands wildlife park.
Yes, several lakes around Stainforth are excellent for families. Doncaster Lakeside offers paved paths and various activities. Highfields Lake in the Woodlands wildlife park is also family-friendly, as is Askern Lake, which has a cafe nearby. Additionally, the Lakeside Picnic Area at Langold Lake is a great spot for family outings.
The lakes around Stainforth are rich in wildlife, especially birds. Badger Corner Lake, located within the Hatfield and Thorne Moor area, is a prime birdwatching spot, with over 200 species recorded. You might see whooper swans, pink-footed geese, and hen harriers in winter, and woodlarks, oystercatchers, and great crested grebes in summer. Doncaster Lakeside also features important reed beds that serve as habitats for water birds, particularly during nesting season.
Yes, many lakes in the Stainforth area offer walking trails. Doncaster Lakeside has a variety of trails, including paved paths, suitable for different activities. Highfields Lake also features established trails. For more extensive walking options, you can explore various hiking routes around Stainforth, including easy to moderate trails. Find more details on these routes in the Hiking around Stainforth guide.
For easy walks, Doncaster Lakeside offers paved paths perfect for a leisurely stroll. Askern Lake also provides a pleasant, easy circuit. You can find more easy hiking options in the area by checking the Easy hikes around Stainforth guide, which includes routes like the Thorne loop.
Yes, you can find amenities near some of the lakes. Askern Lake is a great spot, featuring a cafe right on the lake, plus a bakery and a Co-op nearby. This makes it a convenient place for a stop and refreshments during your visit.
Stainforth Force is a beautiful waterfall on the River Ribble in Stainforth, North Yorkshire, known for salmon leaping in autumn and an ancient packhorse bridge. While it's a significant natural water feature, the lakes highlighted in this guide, such as Doncaster Lakeside and Badger Corner Lake, are located in Stainforth, South Yorkshire, near Doncaster. These are distinct locations, and Stainforth Force is not directly near the lakes mentioned in this guide.
While the immediate lake areas might be more suited for walking, there are mountain biking opportunities in the broader Stainforth region. You can explore various MTB trails, including routes like the Conisbrough Viaduct loop. For detailed routes and difficulty levels, refer to the MTB Trails around Stainforth guide.
Highfields Lake is an ornamental lake situated within the Woodlands wildlife park. It was originally constructed by the owners of Woodlands, a historic country house, and is fed by the Pick Burn. Its historical origin and integration into a wildlife park make it a unique and picturesque spot.
Visitors to the lakes around Stainforth particularly appreciate the opportunities for walking, birdwatching, and family-friendly outings. The natural edges and reed beds of lakes like Doncaster Lakeside are valued for supporting water birds, and the peaceful settings, such as those found at Badger Corner Lake, are highly enjoyed.
Malham Tarn is a significant natural lake located approximately 10 miles from Stainforth in North Yorkshire. It is England's highest marl lake and is recognized as an important conservation area due to its unique geology, flora, and fauna. However, it is not directly associated with the lakes in Stainforth, South Yorkshire, which are the focus of this guide.
Still not found your perfect lake around Stainforth? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
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