Today, many visitors to Nantwich asume that the lake (adjacent to Shrewbridge Road) has always been there. They may be surprised to learn that it is an artificial lake, created in 1974.
The scheme was started by Nantwich Urban Council, and finished by the newly formed Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council. When it was created, it was originally referred to as the Nantwich River Scheme Lake, Later, there was a debate about what the lake should be called, with one resident proposing it should be called Wyche Lake. However, the name Nantwich Lake has stuck. It was found necessary to construct two weirs at each end of the lake. The level of the lake bed was about 5 feet below the general river level. It was built to provide an outlet for leisure activity. Three lifeguards were appointed in 1974.
In 1975 Crewe and Nantwich Radio Controlled Model Society would sail radio-controlled power boats in the new lake. However, complaints were made about the noise the boats made.
By 1976, it was declared unhealthy for swimmers, and warning signs were put up.
Wyche Anglers tried stocking the lake with coarse fish. There were some problems, possibly caused by brine springs making the water salty, so they moved the fish to the adjacent River Weaver. The lake soon became popular with wildfowl, and swans can regularly be seen on the lake.
In the early 1980s windsufing took place on the lake. In 1982 there was an application for a trout fishery on the lake, but this was turned down by the Borough Council Amenities Committee.
In April 2004, a fountain was installed to aerate the water and prevent the build-up of blue-green algae. However, there were complaints made by local residents about the smells generated.
Today Nantwich Lake is a popular spot for visitors, especially walkers and people exercising dogs. Nantwich Lake forms part of the Weaver Way long distance footpath and is also part of the popular Nantwich Riverside Loop scenic walk.