The Largest Artificial Lakes In England For Scenic Outdoor Fun

A word of advice: Never let anyone tell you that an artificial lake cannot compete with natural lakes, visually or otherwise. There are a number of human-made lakes in England that prove this to be a misconception, and many of the best artificial bodies of water just so happen to be among the most visually impressive. They are just as worthy of a visit for anglers, hikers, and everyone in between as any natural lake. 

Arguably, the bigger the lake, the more outdoor fun you can have. For this article, we used data from WorldAtlas' list of the largest reservoirs in the United Kingdom, which bases its figures on the water's surface area. These lakes offer opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, whether fishing, bike riding, or immersing in the "natural" world. Before beginning your adventure, anglers and boaters should obtain any necessary licenses or local permits before you go. Or you can simply take relaxing nature walks and do some wildlife viewing at some of England's largest artificial bodies of water. 

Rutland Water is England's largest artificial lake by surface area at 4.86 square miles. Hike 4 miles of lush trails with killer views of the lake, go boating, or bike around the shimmering blue water at Rutland Water Park. Fly fishing and nature walks are popular, but for those who want something more high-octane, check in with Rutland Watersports. You can rent canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, rowboats, and more. The lake is not only for people — waterfowl and wildlife are also prominent at the lake's 1,000-acre nature reserve, making this a great destination for birdwatchers. 

Kielder Water is England's second-largest artificial lake, covering 4.25 square miles. Set within Kielder Forest (England's largest), outdoor adventurers can enjoy the idyllic nature escape's trails, lake views, and starry skies. The Kielder Lakeside Way is a 26-mile path around the shores, making it accessible for folks with mobility needs. Enjoy sailing and water-skiing year-round, while trout anglers can expect an active fishing season from spring until fall. Finally, enjoy some of the best stargazing in England after dark. There's no entry fee, and paid parking is available.

Pitsford Water has a surface area of 2.85 square miles. Surrounding the shore are 7 miles of wheelchair-friendly pathways for walking or cycling, offering lake views, hiking opportunities, and wildlife watching for all. Fishing is a much-beloved pastime at Pitsford Water, and you can book a boat when getting your permit. Few things are as serene as boating on calm, clear water. The southern half of the lake is admission-free, but the northern half comprises the Pitsford Water Nature Reserve, which requires a permit and doesn't allow watersports. Throughout Pitsford Water, swimming is not allowed (except on designated open swim days).

Tied with Pitsford, Grafham Water is calm, blue, and quiet, with a surface area of 2.85 square miles. Its shoreline is lined by 9 miles of paved track, making it easily accessible for wheelchair-bound users, runners, cyclists, and walkers of all abilities. On the westernmost side of the lake, there's a nature preserve with ancient, native forests and plentiful wildlife for watching. Birders can be on the lookout for waterfowl, warblers, terns, and wading birds like sandpipers. The remainder of the lake is excellent for fly fishing in clear water under vast skies. 

At 1.88 square miles in area, Chew Valley Lake is the fifth-largest in England. Sparkling and blue, it's lined by large trees and sandy beaches, beckoning fly fishers from around the world to its clear waters. Bristol Water Fisheries offers boat rentals, but only from Woodford Lodge — if you need a wheelchair-friendly boat, call ahead of time to reserve one. Swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding are not permitted, but hiking and cycling are. There are trails of varying difficulty around and near the water. 

The somewhat remote Haweswater Reservoir has a surface area of 1.5 square miles. Green hills and groves of large trees surround the lake, which was once the farming town of Mardale, England's sunken ghost town with mountain views. While swimming, paddleboarding, and boating are not permitted, fly fishing is allowed from the shore. Anglers are a common sight on the northwestern side, where a small parking lot sits. Back on land, a 10-mile walking path awaits. It takes five or six hours to complete, and the lake views from the walk are impressive, highlighting Hawewater's rugged, natural terrain. 

With 1.44 square miles of surface area, Derwent Reservoir makes the shortlist of the largest man-made lakes in England. With soft dirt shores, charming castle-style dam architecture, and plentiful foliage to seek shade in, walking around the water is a much-beloved, photography-friendly activity. The circular path along its shores is just over 10 miles long, and takes about four hours to complete (unless you're on a bike). Watersports are not permitted, but bait trout, fly trout, and coarse fishing are allowed. Be sure to book your parking spot in advance — these views wait for no one.