Top 20 Lakes around Curbar

While Curbar itself is known for its gritstone crags, the surrounding Peak District is home to impressive man-made reservoirs, often referred to as 'lakes' due to their size and beauty. These include large bodies of water like Ladybower Reservoir and Derwent Reservoir, as well as smaller ponds such as Longshaw Pond.

Yes, several lakes are great for families. Longshaw Pond is a serene spot within ancient woodlands, perfect for birdwatching. The Linacre Reservoirs offer well-maintained, mostly flat paths suitable for all ages. Dovestone Reservoir, with its easy circular route, is also a popular choice for families and casual walkers.

For scenic walks, Ladybower Reservoir offers extensive perimeter routes, including climbs to Bamford Edge for panoramic views. Dovestone Reservoir has a peaceful 3km circular loop, while Langsett Reservoir provides a more adventurous 3-mile circular route with some hills. You can find various hiking options in the area, including easy hikes around Curbar and more challenging hiking routes.

Cycling is a popular activity around many of the reservoirs. Ladybower and Derwent Reservoirs offer excellent cycling paths, with bike hire often available near Derwent. Langsett Reservoir is known for its mountain biking trails, featuring a mix of flat surfaces, rocky paths, and hills. Holmebrook Valley Park also has cycle paths suitable for getting used to mountain biking. For more options, explore road cycling routes around Curbar.

Derwent Reservoir is particularly notable for its historical connection to World War II, having been used as a practice site for the Dambusters raid. Ladybower Reservoir, opened by King George VI in 1945, is also a significant landmark in the region.

Rudyard Lake, located just outside the Peak District, is a hidden gem geared towards boat lovers. It offers various water activities such as boat hire, kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, rowing, and canoeing, and supports a local sailing club.

The View of Ladybower Reservoir from Bamford Edge is highly recommended, offering panoramic vistas over Ladybower Dam and the surrounding countryside. The hills surrounding Dovestone Reservoir also provide idyllic views.

Yes, many areas around the reservoirs have facilities. Derwent Reservoir has a visitor center with a café. The charming Foolow Village, with its duck pond, also boasts a very lovely pub, The Bull's Head, which makes for a great place to stop and refuel.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and the diverse recreational opportunities. Many appreciate the well-maintained paths for walking and cycling, the historical significance of places like Derwent Dam, and the peaceful atmosphere for birdwatching and photography. The changing colors of the landscape throughout the seasons are also a highlight.

The Linacre Reservoirs offer well-surfaced tracks that are mostly flat, making them a good option for those seeking easier access. Dovestone Reservoir also features a relatively easy circular route.

The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring brings bluebells to areas like Linacre Reservoirs, while autumn offers spectacular changing colors for photographers. During periods of heavy rain, Ladybower's unique 'plughole' spillway creates a spectacular display. The area is popular for walking and cycling in milder weather, but winter walks can also be very scenic.

Many of the trails around the reservoirs are dog-friendly, including the Linacre Reservoirs. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and to check specific local regulations for each site.