Lakewood
Westwoodside, near Doncaster
A peaceful, tree-lined specimen carp water with two islands, individual swims and excellent carp fishing.
Originally excavated for duck shooting, Lakewood is a secluded stillwater with mature trees and lily-fringed swims. Depths average approximately five feet, reaching around nine feet in places. The lake bed is predominantly sand and silt, and weed growth can be extensive during summer.
The lake is particularly well known for its carp, including fish originally stocked from VS Fisheries, with specimens reported into the 30lb bracket. The water also contains a range of coarse fish. Catfish have been reported, although an Environment Agency removal order applies.
Lakewood is restricted to Platinum members and holders of a dedicated Lakewood permit. Anglers should be prepared to fish in weed, observe the water carefully and follow the important on-site biosecurity requirements.
Venue at a Glance
About Lakewood
Originally excavated for duck shooting, Lakewood is a secluded lake with two islands, mature trees and lily-fringed swims. Depths average approximately 5 feet, reaching around 9 feet in places. The lake bed is predominantly sand and silt and weed growth can be extensive in summer. H&DAA is working to manage the weed.
The water is particularly well known for its carp, including fish originally stocked from VS Fisheries, with carp reported into the 30lb bracket. Catfish have also been reported, but an Environment Agency removal order applies; members should not regard catfish as a managed target species.
Species & fishing
Methods: Ledgering, float fishing and surface fishing. Find signs of feeding fish before settling into a swim; there is rarely a need for long casts. Avoid overfeeding and use appropriate tackle for large fish and heavy weed. Follow all venue rules on rigs and lead arrangements.
Finding & accessing the venue
Directions
Idle Bank, Westwoodside, Doncaster, DN9 2BD (approximate postcode). Approach via the concrete bridge and gravel access road to the combination-locked gate.
Parking & arrival
There is a road around the lake with parking close to most pegs. Keep the access road clear at all times. Relock the entrance gate immediately after entering or leaving.
Two different what3words references were provided in the bailiff returns. Please confirm the correct entrance reference before publication.
Facilities & accessibility
Lakewood swim layout
Use this illustrated swim layout to familiarise yourself with the named areas around Lakewood. Please check current signage and bailiff guidance on site.
Lakewood photographs
Scroll sideways to view more photographs. Images are shown in full without cropping.
Before You Fish — Important Lakewood Rules
- Biosecurity: Lakewood has a history of KHV predating H&DAA ownership. Use the landing nets, slings and unhooking mats provided on site; do not bring your own equipment for these purposes.
- Equipment register: Sign in and out at the site cabin and record equipment taken and returned as required.
- Gate: Close and lock the coded entrance gate after every entry and exit.
- Boating safety: Any authorised boat use to retrieve snagged tackle requires a life jacket and at least two members present at the lake. Do not assume boat use is permitted without authorisation.
- Waste: Take all litter and belongings home and return venue equipment to its designated storage location.
- Access: Never obstruct the track around the lake.
- Rules: Follow all H&DAA rules, venue notices and bailiff instructions.
Information compiled from the 2027 venue review submissions by Ian Hartery and Dave Butt. Venue arrangements may change; always check current H&DAA guidance before travelling.
