Top 15 Lakes around Erringden

The 'lakes' around Erringden are primarily scenic man-made reservoirs nestled within the South Pennines. These offer extensive walking routes, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife, providing a tranquil escape into nature.

Yes, several reservoirs offer family-friendly options. For instance, Baitings Reservoir features well-maintained, pram-friendly paths, making it accessible for families. The area around Hurstwood Reservoir also has mountain bike trails that are excellent for younger kids to earn their mountain biking stripes on.

For impressive views, visit Watergrove Reservoir, a viewpoint high in the Pennines with spectacular vistas and archaeological remains of the old village of Watergrove, submerged in 1938. Another option is Blackstone Edge Reservoir, which offers great views after a climb.

Absolutely. Many reservoirs are part of extensive hiking networks. Widdop Reservoir is set in a remote moorland and is a key part of longer walking routes, including access to the Pennine Way. The Walshaw Dean Reservoirs (Lower, Middle, and Upper) also feature picturesque moorland scenery and waterside paths that form part of the famous Pennine Way.

You can discover unique natural features like Lumb Falls, a popular waterfall with a deep, refreshing pool. Additionally, during periods of low water levels at Baitings Reservoir, the remains of an original road and bridge, submerged in 1956, become visible, adding a historical charm to the landscape.

Many of the walking routes around the reservoirs are dog-friendly, offering ample space for your canine companion to enjoy the outdoors. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially around livestock and to protect local wildlife.

Beyond walking, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find excellent running trails, such as those detailed in the Running Trails around Erringden guide. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore routes like those in the MTB Trails around Erringden guide, and road cyclists can find challenging routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Erringden guide.

Yes, Baitings Reservoir is a haven for wildlife and birdwatching. The Lower Walshaw Dean Reservoir, surrounded by heather and peat bogs, also offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, characteristic of the Pennine landscape.

The reservoirs offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer provide lush greenery and warmer weather for longer walks, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Winter can offer dramatic, windswept views, though paths may be more challenging. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.

While many reservoirs, especially those in more remote moorland settings like Widdop and Gorple, may not have immediate facilities, nearby towns and villages such as Hebden Bridge offer a range of cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. It's advisable to bring your own refreshments for walks directly around the reservoirs.

No, swimming and water sports are generally prohibited in these reservoirs. This is due to significant safety concerns such as cold water shock, strong currents, underwater machinery, and the potential presence of blue-green algae, which can be harmful.

Ryburn Reservoir, situated downstream from Baitings, is highly regarded for its tranquil beauty and walking paths that meander through ancient woodland and open rural fields. Circular walks often combine both Ryburn and Baitings Reservoirs, offering diverse scenery and varying terrains for a longer excursion.

The Gorple Reservoirs (Upper and Lower) are integral to the dramatic moorland scenery of the region. Located in the Widdop Valley, they provide a strong sense of remoteness and offer splendid waterside sections for walkers, with opportunities for far-ranging views over the surrounding landscape from Shuttleworth Moor.