If you’re walking in the Peak District, the chances are that you could encounter a reservoir at some point during your ramble. There are dozens of resevoirs dotted around all corners of the national park, we pick some of our favourite walks from our archive.
Ogston Reservoir
This rambling circuit around Ogston Reservoir will lead you off the beaten track. It takes you through meadows laced with wild flowers and alongside woodland where the remains of an old derelict chapel lie hidden.
Click here to view the details of the Ogston Reservoir walk
Linacre Reservoirs
On the eastern flank of the Peak District moors there are peaceful vales and hollows nestling between ancient tracks that lead down to the historic market town of Chesterfield. With the occasional distant hum from main road traffic as a reminder of the 21st century, this walk incorporates spells of rural tranquillity as well as scenic beauty and a few dots of smile-provoking whimsy.
Click here to view the details of the Linacre Reservoirs walk
Derwent reservoir and Ladybower reservoir
Escape to the hills, starting with a flying visit to the famous Derwent Dam and an amble along the reservoir road heading north before ascending through regimented trees in a woodland plantation to Lockerbrook Heights where you are rewarded with far-reaching views. After a wander over elevated pasture, the route descends Hagg Side to finish with a stroll along the shoreline path of Ladybower.
Click here to view the details of the Ladybower reservoir walk
Kinder Reservoir
Kinder Reservoir opened in 1908, and was constructed to provide water for Stockport but it also acts as a flood defence for Hayfield.
Click here to view the details of the Kinder Reservoir walk
Strines and Derwent Reservoirs
This moorland walk circles the tiny reservoir at Strines, on the outskirts of Sheffield, before climbing to breezy Derwent Edge to enjoy panoramic views across the national park as well as down to the Derwent reservoirs.
Click here to view the details of the Strines Reservoir walk
Fernilee Reservoir
Beginning with an easy walk beside Fernilee Reservoir, the route then ambles alongside the river to Taxal through fields and gates, in part overshadowed by mature trees and ancient outgrown hedgerows. The return on the opposite side of the valley is an ‘upsy-downsy’ delight of old tracks and distant views culminating with a wander through woodland.
Click here to view the details of the Fernilee Reservoir walk
Agden Reservoir
Beginning at Low Bradfield and ascending to High Bradfield, this walk then explores hidden valleys and remote farmsteads passing through fields, woods and moorland. Packed with interest and illustrated by far-reaching views, the route then descends and ends with a trail around Agden Reservoir.
Click here to view the details of the Agden Reservoir walk
Errwood Reservoir
Head for the highest point in Cheshire at Shining Tor, enjoying some panoramic natural beauty, a ruined mansion and Errwood Reservoir.
Click here to view the details of the Errwood Reservoir walk
Trentabank Reservoir
A rollercoaster walk on old tracks, woodland paths and quiet country lanes discovering remote homesteads and a run of reservoirs where herons rule the roost. Be prepared for a sting in the tail as the route ends with a steep uphill trek to Tegg’s Nose, but your reward is a breathtaking view over the Cheshire plains.
Click here to view the details of the Trentabank Reservoir walk
Carsington Water
Long stretches of easy walking over a gently rolling landscape eat up the miles on this scenic ramble. It begins with a walk through historic Brassington and incorporates a bird’s-eye view of Carsington Water on the return which appears like a giant puddle embracing the Peak District landscape.
Click here to view the details of the Carsington Water walk
All the routes were correct at the time of publication, over time access to certain parts of the walk may be subject to change.
