Nestled within a rare pocket of unspoilt, non-commercial countryside in the Yorkshire Dales, this lake hides an intriguing secret that attracts visitors from across the nation.

At the centre of Raydale, in Wensleydale, Yorkshire, lies Lake Semerwater, offering a peaceful haven for angling and aquatic activities, whilst providing ramblers with breathtaking panoramic vistas.

It serves as the origin point for what’s recognised as Britain’s shortest river, the River Bain, yet the surrounding area remains pristine and untamed, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature.

According to those who’ve visited, a local farmer oversees the lake, helping maintain the site and preserving it as a haven of natural beauty, abundant with wildlife.

The water attracts enthusiasts for canoeing, sailing and windsurfing, whilst others dedicate entire days to fishing, drawn by its flourishing wild brown trout population.

A recent visitor wrote on TripAdvisor: “A beautiful, tranquil place to camp overnight in a campervan. Spectacular views on the approach and of the lake. Ideal for dog walks. Ignore the negative comments about the farmer, he is a working farmer maintaining the area for the benefit of those prepared to observe the ‘rules’, which are common sense.”

The legend

With just two natural lakes remaining in the Yorkshire Dales, it’s hardly surprising that legends are connected to the water’s enduring existence. In fact, the lake itself is believed to have formed from the final glacier’s retreat thousands of years ago.

The most famous legend concerns the city now submerged beneath the tranquil waters. The tale centres on a homeless man who travelled through what was then a thriving settlement, now resting at the lake’s bottom, requesting a drink, refreshment or even shelter.

He faced rejection at every door, except for when he arrived at a shepherd’s house, positioned at the hillside’s summit, where he received a hospitable welcome.

Come morning, thankful for an evening of nourishment and comfort, he climbed to the hilltop and uttered the words that damned the city eternally.

Legend has it, the man whispered: “Semerwater rise, and Semerwater sink, and swallow the town all save this house, where they gave me food and drink.”

These potent words allegedly summoned water from every direction, cascading into the valley until the settlement was engulfed. Every home sank beneath the surface, bar a single shepherd’s cottage.

Visitors have since reported hearing church bells chiming whilst upon the lake, emanating from the place of worship now buried below.

Parking and camping

The land surrounding the lake requires payment for nearby parking. Present charges stand at £1.30 for stays up to two hours, £1.80 for two to four hours and £3.00 for all-day parking.

One visitor shared: “It was a beautiful day, and upon arriving, I read the notices clearly visible around the water’s edge. It’s quite clear that the land is privately owned and that a fee (£1.80) for parking is required. We did a circular walk taking about 1.5 hours. Take a picnic lunch. It’s beautiful. Well worth the effort.”

Camping in a van is allowed on site, though strict rules apply to safeguard the environment. The website states: “Only self-contained campervans and motorhomes are permitted on the foreshore. Prices are from £3 per person and £3 per vehicle per night.”

All camping arrangements must be reserved in advance with the site owners through email or telephone, with contact details available on their website. Throughout your visit, specific regulations govern what’s allowed on the grounds, and they prohibit: Tents, fires, charcoal or wood BBQs or disposable BBQs.

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