Explore
Scorton Lakes
North Yorkshire
Scorton Lakes are a peaceful series of peaceful lakes surrounded by woodland and countryside near the village of Scorton in North Yorkshire.
Created on the site of the former RAF Scorton airfield, the area combines quiet waterside scenery with an intriguing connection to Yorkshire’s wartime history.
Today, the lakes provide a tranquil setting for walking, fishing and wildlife watching. The surrounding landscape offerings a much quieter experience than many of North Yorkshire’s better-known visitor destinations.
Exploring Scorton Lakes
Scorton Lakes
Visitor Information
Practical details to help plan your visit to Scorton Lakes and the surrounding North Yorkshire countryside.

What to expect
Scorton Lakes consist of serveral bodies of water surrounded by mature woodland and grassland. The peaceful setting makes them a pleasant place for a short countryside walk, with the changing seasons bringing different colours and wildlife to the landscape. The lakes are also used for fishing, adding to their tranquil character.
The area has an interesting wartime history. RAF Scorton was a Second World War airfield that opened in 1942 and was primarily used by the Royal Canadian Air Force. It formed part of the wider network of airfields supporting Bomber Command, and aircraft including Wellington and Halifax bombers operated from the station. Although the airfield itself has largely disappeared beneath the modern landscape, the lakes and surrounding area retain a connection to this important chapter in local history.
Wildlife is one of the main attractions today. The lakes and surrounding habitats providing a home for waterfowl, woodland birds and other species. The quiet atmosphere makes Scorton Lakes particularly appealing for those looking for somewhere to slow down, enjoy the countryside and explore a less well-known corner of North Yorkshire.
Nearby places to explore
From historic market towns to beautiful Yorkshire countryside, discover more places to explore nearby and make the most of your visit to North Yorkshire.
Explore Responsibly
Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints!
Scorton Lakes are a peaceful place for both people and wildlife. Please help keep them that way by following the Leave No Trace principles: stay on established paths where possible, take all litter home, leave plants, rocks and wildlife undisturbed, keep dogs under close control around wildlife and livestock, and respect anglers and other visitors. Always park responsibly in designated parking areas and never block roads, gateways or access routes needed by residents, farmers or emergency service vehicles.
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Explore Collective is an independent publishing project exploring Yorkshire and the Peak District through first hand, experience-led travel guides, photography and hiking inspired by real-world visits and outdoor exploration.
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