West Bailey, Killingworth Lake

This 15 acre lake was created circa 1964 during the reclamation of derelict pit sites. The surrounding park was meant to be like a natural meadow, with spoil heaps levelled and planted with semi-mature trees. Killingworth Township was supposed to represent a modern version of a castle set in a parkland landscape and approached by a causeway over a lake, like a drawbridge over a moat. The lake attracts swans, ducks and other wildlife and is well stocked with fish. An angling club and model boating club use the lake regularly. The lake is about 1.5 feet deep at the edge, sloping down to a maximum of 6.4 feet deep at the centre. LOCAL LIST