Top 6 Lakes around Carleton

The lakes around Carleton are primarily man-made reservoirs, integral to the local water supply. They are situated within a landscape of hills and moorland, offering a classic British moorland experience.

Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. For extensive views, consider visiting View of Embsay Reservoir from Embsay Crag, which offers stunning vistas from the top. Ponden Reservoir also provides good views, especially when descending Scar Top Road.

Many of the reservoirs offer accessible paths suitable for easy walks. Embsay Reservoir is great for an easy walk or jog on its tracks and paths. Similarly, Upper Barden Reservoir features easy paths and footways around its perimeter, including a wide flat track on its dam, making it ideal for most walkers and families.

Yes, water sports are available. Embsay Reservoir is a popular spot where you'll often see sailing boats in the summer months, as a sailing club operates from there. Ponden Reservoir is also used for sailing and canoeing by the Ponden Water Sport Club.

You'll find a variety of hiking trails, from easy strolls around the reservoirs to more challenging routes into the surrounding hills. For easy options, check out the Easy hikes around Carleton guide, which includes routes like the Pinhaw Beacon loop from Lothersdale. Some paths, like those leading off Embsay Crag, can be steep in places.

Absolutely. The area around Carleton offers several routes for cycling and gravel biking. You can explore the Cycling around Carleton guide for road cycling options, or the Gravel biking around Carleton guide for off-road adventures, including routes around Barden Moor.

The lakes are set within a distinctive landscape of proud hills and moorland. This natural setting provides a backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration, with many areas offering wonderful vistas and a sense of classic British countryside.

Visitors particularly appreciate the extensive views from elevated points like Embsay Crag, the character of reservoirs surrounded by hills, and the ease of walking around many of the lake perimeters. The presence of sailing boats in summer also adds to the appeal.

Embsay Reservoir supplies water to the Skipton town area. Upper Barden Reservoir, opened in 1882, supplies water to Bradford. Interestingly, Watersheddles Reservoir, though located in Lancashire, also supplies water to Yorkshire, specifically the Worth Valley and Keighley.

Yes, for the most part. Reservoirs like Embsay Reservoir and Upper Barden Reservoir are known for having easy tracks, paths, and footways suitable for most walkers. However, if you venture onto routes leading to viewpoints like Embsay Crag, some sections can be steeper and more challenging.

The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Summer months are particularly pleasant for water sports like sailing on Embsay Reservoir. The views from the hills and moorland are beautiful in all seasons, though some paths might be muddy or slippery in wet conditions.