Semerwater
Yorkshire's second-largest natural lake, offering serene walks, water sports, and a peaceful escape in the heart of the Dales.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for paddling and swimming
Semerwater
Best Time
Ideal for paddling and swimming
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Yorkshire's second-largest natural lake, offering serene walks, water sports, and a peaceful escape in the heart of the Dales.
"A beautiful place, so peaceful and serene, perfect for a walk or a dip in the lake."
🚗 Pay for Parking
Self-service pay and display parking is mandatory. Pay at the farm 300 yards away and display your ticket.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Boots
The path around the lake is rough and uneven in places; good walking boots are essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Semerwater Lake
Raydale
The second-largest natural lake in North Yorkshire, perfect for peaceful walks, water sports, and wild swimming.
Lakeside Walk
Around Semerwater
A roughly 4.5-mile circular path offering serene views and a chance to discover an abandoned church overlooking the water.
Water Sports Hub
Semerwater
Popular for paddleboarding and wild swimming, with kayak hire available nearby for adventurous visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking and Fees
Amenities and What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Pay for Parking
Self-service pay and display parking is mandatory. Pay at the farm 300 yards away and display your ticket.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Boots
The path around the lake is rough and uneven in places; good walking boots are essential.
🎒 Pack Your Own Refreshments
No shops or cafes on-site. Bring water, snacks, and drinks for your visit.
🏊♀️ Wild Swimming Spot
Semerwater is a popular spot for wild swimming and paddleboarding.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Pay for Parking
Self-service pay and display parking is mandatory. Pay at the farm 300 yards away and display your ticket.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Boots
The path around the lake is rough and uneven in places; good walking boots are essential.
🎒 Pack Your Own Refreshments
No shops or cafes on-site. Bring water, snacks, and drinks for your visit.
🏊♀️ Wild Swimming Spot
Semerwater is a popular spot for wild swimming and paddleboarding.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Beautiful lake views, especially at sunset, perfect for photography. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Semerwater is widely loved for its peaceful, serene atmosphere and natural beauty, making it a fantastic spot for walks and water activities. Visitors appreciate the family-friendly environment and the opportunity for wild swimming and paddleboarding. However, the lack of on-site facilities like toilets and shops, along with the mandatory parking fee, are points to be aware of before visiting.
"Lovely place for a walk around the lake."
Jon Brumby
"A beautiful place. You have to pay and display. You can walk or drive to the farm up the road to do that. It isn't a problem. The lady who saw to us was lovely. You can't stay there and not pay. They do check. There's no toilets or shops so If you do your research before you visit then you won't be disappointed. I love this place. It's so peaceful and serene."
Nikki Clayton
"Fantastic day out for the kids"
Laurence Lines
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Semerwater is located in Raydale, within the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors combine a trip to Semerwater with exploring nearby towns like Hawes or Bainbridge.
Yes, Semerwater is a well-known natural lake in the Yorkshire Dales. Follow signs for Bainbridge and then look for directions to Semerwater.
Public transport options to Semerwater are limited. While buses serve nearby towns like Hawes and Bainbridge, you'll likely need to arrange local transport or a taxi for the final leg to the lake.
Driving through the Yorkshire Dales offers stunning scenery. Routes like the Buttertubs Pass or the drive from Hawes provide beautiful vistas on your way to Semerwater.
Yes, Semerwater is close to the Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes, Aysgarth Falls, and the charming village of Bainbridge.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a 'pay and display' parking fee. Tickets are purchased from the farm located about 300 yards from the main parking area. Payment is self-service via cash.
The parking fee is a small charge, reported as £3.00 by visitors. This is a self-service system, so ensure you have cash.
There are no specific opening or closing hours mentioned for Semerwater itself, but parking enforcement may operate during daylight hours.
While there are campsites nearby, direct camping at Semerwater is not explicitly mentioned. Some reviews mention a 'lovely campsite' in the vicinity.
The fee is for parking. Access to the lake and the surrounding walking paths is generally free, provided you have paid for parking.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Semerwater is ideal for walking, paddleboarding, and wild swimming. Kayak hire is also available nearby.
Yes, there is a circular path around the lake, approximately 4.5 miles long. It can be rough and uneven in places.
No, there are no public toilets or facilities directly at Semerwater. Visitors are advised to plan accordingly.
Yes, Semerwater is considered a fantastic day out for kids, offering opportunities for paddling and enjoying the outdoors.
For a peaceful experience, early mornings are ideal. Sunny days are perfect for water activities. Sunset also offers beautiful views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no cafes or shops directly at Semerwater. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks or visit nearby towns.
Nearby towns like Hawes and Bainbridge offer various cafes and pubs. The Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes is a popular stop for cheese lovers.
Yes, Semerwater is a great spot for a picnic. Remember to take all your rubbish with you to keep the area clean.
Options can vary. While some cafes in nearby towns might offer vegan choices, it's best to check in advance or pack your own vegan-friendly snacks.
Expect traditional pub fare, local Yorkshire produce, and of course, Wensleydale cheese. Many places offer hearty meals perfect after a day of exploring.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself, especially during sunrise or sunset, offers stunning reflections and serene landscapes. The surrounding Dales scenery and the abandoned church are also picturesque.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and landscapes. A drone can offer unique aerial perspectives, but always check local regulations.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provides the most beautiful and soft light for landscape photography.
The path around the lake offers various viewpoints. The abandoned church overlooking the water is a particularly unique spot.
Drone usage is possible, as seen in some social media content, but always be mindful of other visitors and any local restrictions or guidelines for drone operation in national parks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
🧘♀️ Peace Seekers
+2 The gentle lapping of water and the expansive views create a calming environment perfect for relaxation and mindfulness. Enjoy a quiet walk, a picnic by the lake, or simply soak in the natural beauty. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Semerwater by Foot
For those looking for a more challenging hike, Semerwater can be incorporated into longer routes within the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The surrounding fells offer opportunities for more strenuous climbs with rewarding panoramic views. Always ensure you are adequately prepared with maps, compass, and appropriate gear if venturing off the main path. The diverse terrain ensures that whether you're after a gentle stroll or a more demanding trek, Semerwater and its environs can cater to your hiking preferences.
Water Sports and Activities
+1 The lake's natural setting provides a beautiful backdrop for these activities, enhancing the overall experience. Many visitors enjoy the freedom of exploring the lake at their own pace, whether by paddling or taking a refreshing dip. For those who don't own their own equipment, kayak hire is available nearby, offering another way to enjoy the water.
This accessibility means that a wider range of visitors can partake in water-based adventures. The presence of these activities contributes to Semerwater's reputation as a versatile outdoor destination within the Yorkshire Dales, appealing to those who love to be active in nature. The Serenity of Semerwater
+2 The natural beauty of the lake, surrounded by lush greenery and the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales, creates a calming environment. This sense of peace is a significant draw for visitors seeking relaxation and a connection with nature. Many visitors highlight the quietude of Semerwater, noting it as a place to 'sit back and relax'.
This tranquility is amplified by the fact that it's considered one of Yorkshire's 'best-kept secrets' by some, suggesting it retains a more unspoiled charm compared to busier tourist spots. Whether you're enjoying a quiet walk, a picnic by the water, or simply taking in the views, the serene ambiance of Semerwater is a key part of its appeal. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit