Best Fishing Destinations in the East Midlands Near Clipston: Lakes, Countryside Escapes & Luxury Stays
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Fishing around Clipston and across the East Midlands offers a calm yet rewarding escape, perfect for anglers of all abilities. Surrounded by open countryside, quiet lakes, and gently flowing rivers, the area combines excellent fishing opportunities with a sense of peace that’s hard to beat. It’s an ideal setting whether you’re planning a relaxed weekend by the water or a longer break built around your love of angling.
Staying at Luxury Harbour Loft places you within easy reach of some of the region’s most enjoyable fishing spots, while still enjoying a refined countryside base to return to at the end of the day. One nearby favourite is Welland Park, a picturesque riverside setting ideal for gentle fishing sessions or tranquil walks. It’s the perfect place to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and experience the quieter side of the East Midlands—balancing time on the water with the comfort and style of a luxury rural retreat.
Peaceful Landscapes & Natural Charm
The East Midlands is prized for its naturally soothing landscapes—rolling countryside, hidden lakes, and pockets of ancient woodland that feel a world away from everyday life. Whether you’re spending a quiet morning by Welford Reservoir or venturing into Rutland’s open, scenic terrain, the setting is defined by calm views and space to slow down and breathe.
For anglers staying at Luxury Harbour Loft, this region offers the perfect escape from busy towns and cities. Many fishing waters are set within protected countryside, creating an unspoilt environment where you can enjoy uninterrupted time by the water. Here, birdsong replaces traffic, and the gentle movement of the lake becomes the rhythm of the day.
Why anglers love fishing in the East Midlands:

Peaceful fishing lakes surrounded by beautiful natural scenery
Protected landscapes that enhance tranquillity and privacy


Ideal for restorative breaks and unhurried weekend escapes
Convenient access from Clipston and nearby villages
A Rich Variety of Fish for Every Angling Style
Fishing around the East Midlands offers more than just beautiful surroundings—it delivers genuine diversity on the line. Close to Luxury Harbour Loft, well-stocked lakes and calm river stretches cater to a wide range of angling styles, making the area ideal for both seasoned anglers and relaxed beginners.
Whether you enjoy the patience of coarse fishing or the skill of fly casting, local waters are home to a healthy mix of species, including:
Carp – A firm favourite, prized for their size, strength, and rewarding challenge
Pike – Powerful and predatory, perfect for anglers seeking an adrenaline-fuelled catch
Trout – Common in stocked waters and ideal for fly-fishing enthusiasts
Perch – A fun and accessible species, especially popular with children and first-time anglers
Roach & Bream – Classic coarse fish, well suited to traditional float fishing
Most fisheries in the region operate throughout the year and are carefully managed to support sustainable stocks and enjoyable fishing conditions. This variety allows guests staying at Luxury Harbour Loft to shape their fishing day exactly as they wish—whether that means targeting a standout catch or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon by the water.
Why anglers love fishing here:
Wide range of species including carp, pike, trout, perch, and bream
Ideal for coarse fishing, fly fishing, and beginners alike
Year-round access to well-maintained fisheries
Welcoming waters suitable for families and serious anglers
Easy to Reach from Cities and Further Afield
One of the great advantages of fishing in the East Midlands is how effortless it is to get here. Luxury Harbour Loft sits in a prime countryside location that feels wonderfully secluded, yet remains well connected to major towns and transport routes. Whether you’re arriving by car from Leicester, Nottingham, or Derby, or travelling from further afield, reaching the region is straightforward and stress-free.
Well-maintained road networks make driving simple, while many of the area’s best fishing lakes provide convenient on-site parking, so you can arrive, unload, and start your day without hassle. For those travelling by train or air, nearby rail links and airports—including East Midlands Airport and Birmingham Airport—make the area easily accessible for weekend fishing breaks or longer countryside escapes.
Why access is so easy:
Strong road and public transport connections
Close to key cities such as Leicester, Nottingham, and Derby
On-site parking available at most fishing venues
Nearby train stations and major airports for longer-distance travellers
This balance of accessibility and tranquillity makes Luxury Harbour Loft an ideal base for anglers who want peaceful fishing without complicated travel.
Fishing for Every Style and Experience Level
Fishing around the East Midlands is wonderfully varied, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the water at their own pace. Guests staying at Luxury Harbour Loft are perfectly placed to explore a wide choice of nearby fisheries, whether you prefer classic coarse fishing, fly fishing, or more specialist angling experiences.
Local lakes and reservoirs cater to different approaches, offering peaceful bank fishing for those who enjoy quiet, unhurried sessions, as well as boat fishing for anglers who like a bit more freedom and range. Some waters also feature dedicated specimen areas, ideal for those looking to test their skills against larger fish.
Whether you’re introducing children to fishing for the first time or planning a more serious angling trip, the region’s well-managed fisheries and friendly atmosphere make it easy to shape the day exactly how you want.
A wide range of options including bank, boat, fly, and coarse fishing
Suitable for beginners, families, and experienced anglers
Boat hire and launch facilities available at selected waters
Tranquil shoreline spots for traditional, relaxed fishing sessions

A Note from Susan
“The fishing around here is great. Welford Reservoir and Pitsford Water are both within easy reach, and there are some lovely smaller lakes too. Guests who fish always appreciate how peaceful the area is.”
— Susan, Founder of Espais Roca
This flexibility is part of what makes the area around Luxury Harbour Loft such an appealing base for anglers of all kinds.
Switch Off in Peaceful Countryside Settings
One of the greatest pleasures of fishing in the East Midlands is the calm, unspoilt landscape that surrounds the water. For guests staying at Luxury Harbour Loft, these tranquil lakes and reservoirs offer the perfect escape from everyday noise—ideal for slowing down, breathing deeply, and enjoying time outdoors.
Here, fishing is as much about the atmosphere as the catch. Quiet shorelines, open skies, and nearby woodland paths create space to unwind, whether you’re casting a line at dawn or taking a gentle walk after a relaxed afternoon by the water. Birdsong replaces traffic, and nature sets the rhythm of the day.
If you’d like to add a little variety to your stay, the nearby market town of Market Harborough is well worth a visit. Our guide to the 9 Best Things to Do in Market Harborough is a great place to find ideas for easy countryside outings, cafés, and scenic walks.
Secluded lakes set within peaceful rural landscapes
Perfect for slow-paced weekends and restorative breaks
Excellent for walking, wildlife spotting, and birdwatching
A harmonious blend of angling, nature, and countryside leisure
It’s this sense of calm that makes the area around Luxury Harbour Loft so appealing for anglers and nature lovers alike.
Whether you’re picking up a rod for the first time or have years of experience, fishing around Luxury Harbour Loft in Northamptonshire is all about slowing down and enjoying the calm of the countryside. These simple, practical tips will help you get the most from your time by the water.
Choose the Right Time
Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be the most productive. Cooler temperatures and lower light levels make fish more active—and the peaceful atmosphere adds to the experience.
Stay Quiet and Unhurried
Move gently along the banks and keep noise to a minimum. Calm, steady movements help avoid disturbing the water and give you a better chance of a bite.
Embrace the Pace
Fishing here isn’t just about what you catch. Take time to enjoy the stillness, the wildlife, and the scenery. Patience is part of the pleasure.
Tap into Local Expertise
A quick stop at a local tackle or bait shop can be invaluable. Local advice on bait, conditions, and recent catches often makes a noticeable difference.
With these tips in mind, fishing near Luxury Harbour Loft becomes less about rushing and more about reconnecting with nature in one of Northamptonshire’s most tranquil settings.
🧳 What to Bring: Your Fishing Essentials Checklist
A little preparation goes a long way when planning a fishing break near Luxury Harbour Loft, helping you relax and enjoy the experience from the moment you arrive. Here’s a simple packing guide to ensure you’re fully equipped for a smooth and enjoyable day by the water.
Fishing Gear
Bring your own rod and reel if you have them, or travel light and hire equipment from nearby fishing and tackle shops.
Well-Prepared Tackle Kit
Pack the essentials such as hooks, floats, sinkers, swivels, and spare line so you’re ready for different conditions.
Bait or Lures
Choose live bait like worms or maggots, or artificial lures, depending on your preferred method and the fish you’re targeting.
Valid UK Fishing Licence
A rod fishing licence is required on public waters in England. Short-term and annual licences can be purchased easily online via Gov.uk.
Comfort Essentials
A lightweight folding chair or fishing mat will make longer, peaceful sessions by the water far more comfortable.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy footwear or wellies. The countryside weather can change quickly, even on sunny days.
Storage for Your Catch
If regulations allow you to keep fish, bring a bucket or cooler to store them properly and humanely.
With these essentials packed, you’ll be free to focus on what matters most—unwinding in the calm surroundings near Luxury Harbour Loft and enjoying the simple pleasure of time spent fishing.
The East Midlands is home to a wonderful collection of fishing lakes set within peaceful countryside—ideal for guests staying at Luxury Harbour Loft who want to combine a relaxing break with time by the water. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or trying fishing for the first time, the region offers a mix of tranquil lakes and larger reservoirs suited to different techniques and experience levels.
From quiet rural waters perfect for slow, reflective sessions to open stretches ideal for fly fishing and longer days outdoors, these nearby fishing spots showcase the very best of angling in the East Midlands. Below are two standout lakes well worth adding to your stay.
Welford Reservoir – Peaceful Angling in Nature
Set amid the rolling Northamptonshire countryside and just a short drive from Luxury Harbour Loft, Welford Reservoir is a calm and characterful fishing destination close to Market Harborough. Built in the 19th century to supply water to the Grand Union Canal, it now offers a wonderfully relaxed setting for anglers who enjoy peaceful surroundings as much as a good catch.
⭐ Highlights at a Glance
Historic Setting – Dating back to the 1800s, the reservoir is rich in heritage and framed by classic rural scenery.
Fish Variety – Home to carp (both common and mirror), bream, roach, tench, and perch, catering to a wide range of fishing styles.
Opening Times – Generally accessible from sunrise to sunset; seasonal hours may vary, so it’s best to check ahead.
On-Site Facilities – Well-spaced fishing pegs, parking, toilet facilities, and picnic spots make it easy to spend the whole day here. A circular walking path also allows non-anglers to enjoy the landscape.
Location – Bulls Head, 10 Harborough Road, Clipston, Market Harborough, LE16 9RT
Contact – 📞 01858 455437
“Such a lovely cottage. The location is excellent, very peaceful. The cottage is exquisite, excellent facilities, amazing design and furnishings. Would definitely return.”
— Phil, via Airbnb
Welford Reservoir is perfect for unhurried fishing sessions in a beautifully maintained environment. Its gentle atmosphere makes it especially suitable for beginners and families, while nearby footpaths and open countryside mean everyone can enjoy the day—whether they’re holding a rod or simply soaking up the views.
Pitsford Water – A Fly Fishing Favourite
One of the East Midlands’ standout trout fishing locations, Pitsford Water in Northamptonshire is an exceptional destination for anglers staying at Luxury Harbour Loft. Set within wide-open countryside, this impressive reservoir combines excellent fly-fishing conditions with well-maintained visitor facilities, making it ideal for both dedicated anglers and relaxed day trips.
Established Reservoir – Created in the 1950s as a drinking-water supply, Pitsford Water has evolved into a much-loved spot for fishing, walking, and wildlife watching.
Fish Species – Regularly stocked with rainbow and brown trout, with pike also present, offering variety for fly, lure, and predator anglers.
Seasonal Access – Open throughout the year. The main fishing season usually runs from March to November, with winter limitations on boat hire and certain permits.
Excellent Facilities – On-site café, tackle shop, boat hire, toilets, picnic areas, and generous parking. The café is perfect for a warming drink or light bite after a session on the water.
Location – Pitsford Water, Northamptonshire
Pitsford Water is a favourite among fly-fishing enthusiasts thanks to its scale, stock quality, and scenic setting. You can cast from the bank or hire a boat to explore the deeper stretches, adding a real sense of freedom and adventure. With lakeside trails, bird hides, and open countryside all around, it’s also an excellent choice for a full day out—perfectly balancing angling with nature and relaxation close to Luxury Harbour Loft.
Rutland Water – One of the UK’s Premier Trout Fisheries
Covering over 1,000 acres, Rutland Water is one of the UK’s largest and most impressive man-made reservoirs. Located on the Rutland–Leicestershire border, it’s an outstanding destination for guests staying at Luxury Harbour Loft who want to combine exceptional fishing with unforgettable countryside scenery. Far more than an angling venue, Rutland Water is a vibrant outdoor hub offering sailing, cycling, and wildlife experiences alongside world-class fishing.
A Landmark Location – Created in the early 1970s as a water-supply reservoir, Rutland Water has since become one of Britain’s most celebrated outdoor destinations, loved for its vast open waters and panoramic views.
Fish Species – Home to rainbow and brown trout, as well as pike, carp, and perch, making it suitable for fly anglers, predator fishing, and mixed-discipline enthusiasts.
Year-Round Access – Open throughout the year, with fishing sessions typically starting early. Permits and local regulations should be checked in advance.
Excellent Facilities – On site you’ll find a dedicated fishing lodge, boat hire, café, picnic areas, toilets, and extensive parking—ideal for a full, unhurried day outdoors.
Location – Rutland Water, Oakham, LE15 8PD
Contact – 📞 01572 653026
Rutland Water is renowned as one of the UK’s premier trout fisheries, offering vast space for both bank and boat fishing. Its scale provides a sense of freedom rarely found elsewhere, while the surrounding nature reserves, walking trails, and bird-watching spots make it perfect for anglers travelling with family or friends. For guests at Luxury Harbour Loft, it’s an ideal day trip that blends top-class fishing with the beauty and calm of the East Midlands countryside.
Rookery Waters – Modern, Accessible & Angler-Focused
Set in the heart of the East Midlands, Rookery Waters is a well-established, modern fishery that appeals to everyone from first-time anglers to seasoned professionals. With several carefully maintained lakes and an organised, welcoming layout, it offers an enjoyable and stress-free fishing experience in a clean, professional setting.
Well-Run Fishery – Rookery Waters has earned a strong reputation for excellent management, consistent stocking, and a friendly atmosphere that keeps anglers coming back year after year.
Fish Species – A diverse mix including carp, tench, roach, and pike, ideal for anglers who enjoy variety and different fishing styles.
Opening Times – Open throughout the year, typically from early morning until evening. Advance booking is recommended, especially during busy weekends and holidays.
On-Site Facilities – Café, tackle shop, clean toilets, and convenient parking ensure a comfortable day by the water.
Location – Rookery Waters, Loughborough, LE11 1NR
Contact – 📞 01509 262931
Rookery Waters stands out for its accessibility, reliability, and well-stocked lakes. Beginners benefit from a supportive environment and clear facilities, while experienced anglers appreciate the quality fish and thoughtful layout. Combined with helpful staff and excellent amenities, it’s a fishery that delivers consistency and enjoyment every visit.
Where to Stay Near the Best Fishing Lakes in the East Midlands
After a rewarding day on the water, having the right place to relax is just as important. For anglers visiting Rookery Waters and other top fishing spots, Luxury Harbour Loft offers an ideal countryside base—blending comfort, space, and tranquillity. With stylish interiors, peaceful surroundings, and easy access to East Midlands fishing lakes, it’s the perfect place to unwind, plan the next day’s session, and enjoy a truly restorative fishing getaway.
The Barn – A Modern Countryside Retreat
If you’re organising a fishing escape in the East Midlands and want stylish, family-friendly accommodation close to the region’s best lakes, The Barn at Luxury Harbour Loft is an exceptional choice. This beautifully restored Victorian red-brick barn sits within peaceful countryside at Rectory Farm, offering generous space, refined design, and all the comforts needed for a relaxing stay after a day by the water.
Spanning 160 m², The Barn blends rustic character with contemporary luxury and comfortably hosts up to 8 guests plus infants. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples who want a calm countryside base within easy reach of renowned fishing spots such as Rutland Water and Rookery Waters.
Spacious Open-Plan Living
Light-filled interiors with plenty of room to relax, socialise, and unwind in comfort.
Flexible Sleeping for Groups
Three generously sized bedrooms with super-king beds (one configurable as twins), plus cots and highchairs for younger guests.
Luxury Bathrooms
Two sleek, modern bathrooms featuring powerful walk-in showers, a deep soaking bath with rainfall shower, and heated towel rails.
Entertainment for All Ages
4K Smart TVs with Netflix, an Xbox with popular games, and Amazon Echo devices throughout the property.
Fully Equipped Designer Kitchen
High-end Siemens appliances, a bean-to-cup coffee machine, and a Quooker boiling-water tap make self-catering effortless.
Indoor–Outdoor Living
A striking 10-metre folding glass wall opens onto a landscaped garden with BBQ and outdoor seating—perfect for evenings outdoors.
Ideal for Remote Work
Fast fibre Wi-Fi, USB charging points, international sockets, and secure storage.
Eco-Conscious Comfort
On-site electric vehicle charging supports sustainable travel.
With peaceful surroundings, excellent access to top fishing destinations, and premium amenities throughout, The Barn at Luxury Harbour Loft offers a refined yet relaxed retreat—perfect for anglers and nature lovers looking to combine great fishing with a truly comfortable countryside stay.
Book The Barn Now
Stay at Luxury Harbour Loft
Luxury Harbour Loft, a beautifully restored stable conversion on the 14 Acres estate.
Stay at Luxury Harbour Loft
A luxury countryside stable conversion with lake views. Sleeps up to 6 guests with 2 super king beds, balcony dining, and everything you need for a relaxed break.
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