Boathouse Newmillerdam Art Print

The enchanting Boathouse at Newmillerdam is one of Wakefield’s most beloved and picturesque landmarks. Nestled within a peaceful woodland setting, the Boathouse sits on the edge of Newmillerdam Country Park, a former estate dating back to the 18th century and now a cherished destination for walkers, nature lovers, and photographers alike.

The Boathouse itself is a striking Gothic-style structure, originally part of the grand Chevet Hall estate (now demolished). With its distinctive pointed arches and turret-like features, it adds a touch of romantic charm to the tranquil lake it overlooks. The area is rich in wildlife – home to swans, herons, and even kingfishers – and the changing seasons bring dramatic shifts in colour and mood.

Before the Boathouse became a cafe, I used to spend so much time walking around Newmillerdam, and even worked for a while at Drakes Cafe (now Lakeside). My sister also used to own it when it was called Hannah’s Tea Rooms back in the early 1990s!

I wanted to capture the quiet magic of the setting, with its reflections on the still water and the warm textures of the stone against the surrounding woodland. I hope you’ll agree that it provides a moment of calm, history, and natural beauty – an ideal for anyone who cherishes Yorkshire’s hidden gems or has fond memories of walks around Newmillerdam.