Scar House Reservoir
Scar House Reservoir
The best walks and hikes around Scar House Reservoir
4.5
(384)
2,866
hikers
69
hikes
Hiking around Scar House Reservoir offers a diverse landscape characterized by large bodies of water, impressive dams, and surrounding moorland. The area is part of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, featuring rolling hills and open countryside. Trails often follow the reservoir edges, providing views of the water and the rugged Yorkshire Dales scenery.
Best hiking trails around Scar House Reservoir
- The most popular hiking route is Scar House & Angram Reservoirs loop, a moderate 6.5 miles (10.5…
Last updated: July 22, 2026
4.9
(8)
74
hikers
10.5km
02:46
90m
90m
Embark on the Scar House & Angram Reservoirs loop, a moderate hike spanning 6.5 miles (10.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 291 feet (89 metres). You can expect…
3
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(25)
210
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(9)
48
hikers
18.0km
05:10
450m
450m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(4)
28
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A victory memorial, not a roll of honour, hence it lists key WW1 dates and not names. It was originally a drinking fountain and was repurposed as a memorial in 1920.
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Wonderful cafe with great food. High above the gorge, it has glass floor panels where you can see the river beneath. Well worth a stop.
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The village is located in Upper Nidderdale, North Yorkshire. It is a quiet place that is surrounded by beautiful countryside.
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The village of Lodge on the edge of the valley had originally been established around a grange farm as part of the Cistercian Byland Abbey in medieval times. Occupied until the 1920's there are plaques against the ruined buildings and a small map on a display board showing you the locations of them. remains of the five buildings can still be seen and the ruined houses, with their stone flagged floors and old kitchen ranges they would have a bleak and simple lifestyle.
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There is a small shelter on the West side of the Dam along the access wall which has seats inside ideal for a picnic out of the wind and rain! (Although the birds also agree)
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The reservoir was built to supply water to the Bradford area of West Yorkshire. It was built by Bradford Corporation between 1904 and 1919, under an Act of Parliament in 1890 which also authorised the corporation to construct three other reservoirs in upper Nidderdale.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there around Scar House Reservoir?
There are over 70 hiking trails available around Scar House Reservoir, catering to various skill levels. These routes explore the reservoir edges, surrounding moorland, and impressive dam structures within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Are there any easy walks suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are 17 easy routes. A great option is the Scar House Reservoir and Dam loop, which is 4.3 miles (7 km) long and typically takes around 1 hour 50 minutes. It offers pleasant reservoir-side paths and crosses the dam.
Where can I park when visiting Scar House Reservoir?
Parking is available at the Scar House Reservoir Car Park. It's the primary access point for many of the trails in the area, including the start of the challenging Scar House Reservoir and Bull Brae Shooting House loop.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails around Scar House Reservoir?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Scar House Reservoir. However, as much of the area is open moorland and farmland, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially during lambing season or when livestock are present, to protect wildlife and farm animals.
What is the best time of year to hike in this area?
Spring and summer offer the most pleasant conditions with warmer weather and blooming heather on the moorland. Autumn provides stunning colours. Winter walks are possible but require appropriate gear due to potentially harsh weather, including wind and rain, and shorter daylight hours.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced walkers?
Absolutely. For a more strenuous experience, consider the Scar House Reservoir and Bull Brae Shooting House loop. This difficult 13.4-mile (21.6 km) path features significant elevation gain and varied terrain, including climbs towards Bull Brae.
Are there any circular walks around Scar House Reservoir?
Many routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular moderate circular option is the Scar House & Angram Reservoirs loop, covering 6.5 miles (10.5 km) and offering expansive views of both reservoirs.
What can I expect in terms of terrain and scenery?
The terrain primarily consists of reservoir-side paths, open moorland, and gravel tracks. You'll experience impressive views of the large reservoirs, the historic dams, and the rugged, rolling hills characteristic of the Yorkshire Dales and Nidderdale AONB.
Is public transport available to Scar House Reservoir?
Public transport options to Scar House Reservoir are very limited. The area is quite remote, and it is generally recommended to travel by car. There are no direct bus services to the reservoir itself, so planning for private transport or a taxi from a nearby town is advisable.
What kind of gear should I wear for hiking here?
Given the exposed nature of the moorland and potential for changeable weather in the Yorkshire Dales, it's essential to wear sturdy waterproof hiking boots, layered clothing, and waterproof outer shells. Always carry water, snacks, and a map or GPS device, as mobile signal can be intermittent.
Are there any pubs or cafes nearby for after a hike?
While Scar House Reservoir itself is quite remote, you can find pubs and cafes in nearby villages such as Middlesmoor, Lofthouse, and Pateley Bridge. These offer a chance to refuel and relax after exploring the trails.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Scar House Reservoir?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 300 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning, expansive views, the tranquility of the remote setting, and the well-maintained paths around the reservoirs and dams.
Most popular routes around Scar House Reservoir
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