Binsey, Great Cockup and Longlands Fell overlook the lake.

Over Water was a small natural waterbody which was dammed in 1904 to increase its size.

It served as a reservoir supplying drinking water to the town of Wigton until October 2022.

It was recorded as 'Orre Water' in 1687, which derives from the Old Norse which means 'the lake where blackcock or grouse are found' or 'Orri's lake' ...ON 'orri' is a bird of the grouse family, but hence also a nickname and pers.

It is notable for being a feeding place for the Ospreys which breed beside Bassenthwaite Lake.