Semer Water Nature Reserve
📍 HawesNorth Yorkshire
Natural lake in quiet Raydale with wetland birds, footpaths and a legend of a drowned town
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What’s free
Free to visit the nature reserve on public footpaths
About
Semer Water is one of the largest natural lakes in North Yorkshire, and the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust reserve at its head is good for great crested grebes, curlews, lapwings and winter whooper swans. Turner sketched it, and local legend says a town lies beneath the water. Stick to the public footpaths; the track from Marsett is uneven, and dogs must be on a short lead.
Opening times
- Open at all times
Times can change, so check with the venue before a special trip.
Good to know
Costs to know about: Lakeside parking is run by a private landowner and charges apply
Still free?
Checked by our editors on 13 Oct 2026.
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