Newmillerdam Country Park
A serene country park in Wakefield featuring a picturesque lake, woodland trails, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for walks, picnics, and family fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Secure parking and fewer crowds
Newmillerdam Country Park
Best Time
Secure parking and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene country park in Wakefield featuring a picturesque lake, woodland trails, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for walks, picnics, and family fun.
"Newmillerdam is a true gem, offering a peaceful escape with stunning natural beauty and plenty to explore."
🚗 Beat the Parking Rush
Arrive before 10 am or after 1 pm on weekends to guarantee a parking spot. It's free on bank holidays!
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
This park is very dog-friendly, with plenty of space for them to roam. Remember to bring your own poo bags!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Shimmering Lake
Central Lake
A picturesque centerpiece surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics.
Woodland Wanderings
Surrounding Woodlands
Explore winding trails through mature trees, offering shade and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Gnome Trail Fun
Designated Trail Area
A delightful adventure for younger visitors, with hidden gnomes to discover along the path.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Parking
Embrace the Trails and Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat the Parking Rush
Arrive before 10 am or after 1 pm on weekends to guarantee a parking spot. It's free on bank holidays!
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
This park is very dog-friendly, with plenty of space for them to roam. Remember to bring your own poo bags!
🌳 Explore Beyond the Main Path
While the main path is great, venture into the woodlands for more secluded spots and wildlife sightings.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Plenty of spots for a picnic, from shaded areas under trees to open spaces with lake views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Parking Rush
Arrive before 10 am or after 1 pm on weekends to guarantee a parking spot. It's free on bank holidays!
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
This park is very dog-friendly, with plenty of space for them to roam. Remember to bring your own poo bags!
🌳 Explore Beyond the Main Path
While the main path is great, venture into the woodlands for more secluded spots and wildlife sightings.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Plenty of spots for a picnic, from shaded areas under trees to open spaces with lake views.
☕ Refuel at The Boathouse
The Boathouse cafe by the lakeside is a popular spot for coffee and a break, often catching the sunshine.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Newmillerdam Country Park is widely praised as a beautiful and peaceful natural escape, perfect for walks and wildlife spotting. Visitors appreciate the accessible paths, scenic lake views, and the enjoyable gnome trail for children. While parking can be busy, the overall experience is highly positive, offering a tranquil retreat.
"Lovely place to walk. Good paths for walking, wheelchair assessable. We loved the Broadwalk- we heard so many birds singing.
Car park was busy- probably better to arrive early or after 1pm. Plenty of places to eat and drink and ice cream van there too."
Linda Coleman
"We have been walking around the lake a number of times and during different seasons! It’s a great path and very dog friendly! The parking can get busy, so get there by 10am if you want a space. It’s free on bank holidays, but very reasonable at other times. We always stop at The Boathouse for a coffee and toilet break! It’s by the lakeside and it gets the sunshine!!
There’s no bins apart from the car park, so you need to carry your poo bags around!"
Elisa Winstanley
"Newmillerdam is a true gem, and I recently had the pleasure of revisiting this beautiful spot with a friend. It's a place that instantly puts you at ease, a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The first thing that strikes you is the sheer natural beauty. The lake itself is the centerpiece, shimmering and inviting, surrounded by lush greenery. The trees are a vibrant mix of colours, especially stunning during the autumn months, creating a picturesque backdrop for any activity.
We decided to make the most of the sunny day and packed a picnic. Newmillerdam is, without a doubt, one of the best places for a picnic. There are plenty of spots to choose from, whether you prefer a shaded area under a tree or a more open space with a view of the water. We found a perfect little nook, spread out our blanket, and settled in for a relaxing afternoon. The atmosphere is so peaceful, with the gentle sounds of nature all around. You can hear the birds singing, the rustling of leaves in the breeze, and the occasional splash from the lake.
Beyond the picnic, there's plenty to do. There are walking trails that wind through the woods, perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can spot various wildlife, from ducks and geese to squirrels and, if you're lucky, maybe even a deer. The area is well-maintained, clean, and clearly a place that's loved and respected by visitors. The accessibility is also a plus; there's ample parking and easy access to the main areas, making it suitable for families and people of all ages. Overall, Newmillerdam offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a peaceful atmosphere. It's a place to unwind, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories. It's definitely a place I'll be returning to again and again."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Newmillerdam Country Park is located in Wakefield, West Yorkshire. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transport options might involve local bus routes to nearby areas, followed by a walk.
Yes, there is a car park. It can get busy, especially on weekends and school holidays. Arriving early (before 10 am) or after 1 pm is recommended. Parking is free on bank holidays and reasonably priced otherwise.
Cycling is a great way to explore the park and surrounding areas. There are paths suitable for cycling, and it's a popular route for local cyclists.
The main path around the lake is generally flat and pushchair/wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for visitors with mobility needs.
Newmillerdam is situated near Wakefield. It's also within reasonable driving distance of cities like Leeds and Barnsley, making it a convenient day trip destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Newmillerdam Country Park itself is free. There is a charge for parking, which is very reasonable.
As a country park, Newmillerdam is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times for the park itself, though facilities like cafes may have their own hours.
No, tickets are not required for entry to Newmillerdam Country Park. You only need to pay for parking if you are driving.
While not always advertised widely online, local events or community gatherings can occur. Checking local Wakefield event listings or social media pages might provide more information.
Yes, the park is spacious enough for groups. However, for very large gatherings, it's advisable to check if any specific permissions are needed, especially if planning an organized event.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking around the lake, exploring woodland trails, picnicking, bird watching, and spotting wildlife. There's also a gnome trail for children.
Absolutely! Families love the gnome trail, the open spaces for play, and the opportunity to see wildlife. The main path is also pushchair-friendly.
Visitors often spot ducks, geese, squirrels, and various bird species. Some have even reported seeing snakes and grey herons.
Yes, there are toilets available, though they are primarily located near the car park area.
Yes, Newmillerdam is very dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome on the paths and around the park.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Boathouse cafe is located by the lakeside and offers refreshments. There are also other cafes and pubs within walking distance of the park.
The Boathouse typically serves coffee, snacks, and light meals. It's a popular spot for a break during your walk.
Definitely! Newmillerdam is an excellent spot for picnics, with many scenic locations to choose from, including areas with picnic tables.
Yes, there are restaurants and pubs located within walking distance of the park, offering various dining options.
During warmer months and peak times, an ice cream van is often present, adding to the park's visitor amenities.
📸 📸 Photography
The lakeside offers beautiful reflections and scenic views, especially during sunrise or sunset. The woodland trails provide opportunities for capturing dappled light and autumn colors. 
Yes, with its diverse wildlife, varied flora, and the lake, it's a fantastic location for nature photographers. Keep an eye out for birds and squirrels.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour is particularly magical here.
The Boathouse cafe with its lakeside setting is a popular spot. The mature trees and the lake itself provide iconic backdrops.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws or with the park authorities before flying a drone to ensure compliance and respect for other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic surroundings, or grab a treat from The Boathouse cafe.
🚶♀️ Solo Walkers & Dog Owners
The serene atmosphere and natural beauty provide a perfect backdrop for quiet contemplation or simply enjoying the fresh air. The Boathouse cafe is a convenient stop for a solo coffee break, and the reasonable parking fees make it an accessible option for regular visits. Remember to bring your own dog waste bags, as bins are limited.
📸 Nature & Photography Enthusiasts
The surrounding woodlands provide opportunities to capture dappled light and the vibrant colors of autumn. Keep your camera ready for the diverse wildlife, including various bird species, squirrels, and potentially even herons.
The park's accessibility means you can easily spend hours exploring different vantage points and capturing the essence of this beautiful Yorkshire landscape. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Nature
Keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife that calls Newmillerdam home. Visitors frequently spot ducks and geese on the lake, playful squirrels darting through the trees, and a variety of bird species.
Some lucky visitors have even reported sightings of snakes and grey herons, adding an element of surprise to the natural experience. The park's diverse flora also makes it a visually appealing destination throughout the year, with particularly stunning displays during the autumn months. For younger visitors, the gnome trail offers a fun and engaging way to explore the park. This interactive trail encourages children to search for hidden gnomes, adding an element of discovery to their walk.
Visitor Amenities and Dining
Beyond the Boathouse, there are other cafes and pubs within easy walking distance of the park, providing a range of dining options for visitors.
Practical facilities include toilets, primarily located near the car park.
Photography Opportunities
+1 The mature trees surrounding the lake and within the woodlands create a stunning natural frame, with dappled light filtering through the leaves, adding depth and atmosphere to your images. For nature photographers, the park is a haven. The diverse birdlife, including ducks and geese on the water, along with squirrels and other small mammals in the woods, provide ample subjects.
Capturing the changing seasons, particularly the vibrant hues of autumn foliage, offers a spectacular visual display. The gnome trail can also provide whimsical and charming photo opportunities, especially for family portraits. To make the most of your photography, consider visiting during the golden hour – the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset – when the light is soft and warm, enhancing the natural beauty of the park.
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