Top 12 Lakes around Rochdale
Best lakes around Rochdale are situated in a region characterized by its Pennine landscape, featuring open moorland, valleys, and historical industrial heritage. The area offers a diverse range of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, from country parks to rugged reservoir landscapes. Many of these lakes were originally constructed to support the Rochdale Canal or provide water for the local population. Rochdale's lakes provide varied habitats and historical points of interest for visitors.
Best lakes around Rochdale
- The most popular lakes is Greenbooth Reservoir, an other_man_made feature that was created by submerging a village to supply water to Rochdale. Today, it offers a pleasant walking experience around the lake or combined with longer moorland routes.
- Another must-see spot is Watergrove Reservoir, a viewpoint high in the Pennines above Wardle village. This area includes walking trails with views, opportunities for bird watching, and links to the Pennine Bridleway.
- Visitors also love Hollingworth Lake, a viewpoint that is an award-winning country park. It is a popular destination for watersports, fishing, and a 4 km circular walk around its perimeter.
- Rochdale is known for its reservoirs, many of which were built for industrial or water supply purposes, and country park lakes. These include large impounding reservoirs and smaller, tranquil bodies of water, offering a variety of landscapes to explore.
- The lakes around Rochdale are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 40 upvotes and over 25 photos shared across 12 highlights.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Watergrove Reservoir
Highlight • Viewpoint
The area's mixture of moorland, young woodland, wetland and rough pasture - and the reservoir itself - offers a large variety of habitats and a fascinating wealth of archaeological remains.
This area is much appreciated by outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
History
Rochdale Corporation chose Watergrove as a suitable site to build a large reservoir largely to a prolonged drought in the 1930s, resulting in water regularly being bought from Oldham. The ruins of the old village of Watergrove submerged under the large expanse of water in 1938, and dotted around the landscape above the reservoir there are several ruins originally belonging to the village.
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Hollingworth Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Blackstone Edge Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Warland Reservoir Tower
Highlight • Structure
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Greenbooth Reservoir
Highlight • Structure
Today, the reservoir is a nice place for a walk either around the lake or combining it with a longer walk on the moors above.
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View of Ashworth Moor Reservoir and Turf Moor Summit
Highlight • Viewpoint
Great views and fun riding in either direction.
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Hollingworth Lake
Highlight • Pub
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Watergrove Reservoir
Highlight • Trail
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Piethorne Reservoir
Highlight • Structure
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Singletrack by the Lake
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Popular around Rochdale
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Tips from the Community
Nice lake views, good selection of cafés chippy's and pubs. Get there early, can get busy on sunny days.
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Excellent views over Rivington, Manchester and Rochdale, nice pub here too, the Owd Betts.
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Watergrove Reservoir is perched high in the Pennines above Wardle village. It's home to scenic walking trails, excellent bird-watching, fishing spots, and access to the Pennine Bridleway. The surrounding open moorland provides a more rugged, wild landscape compared to the lush lower valleys, with spectacular views stretching across the area.
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Starting at the Ashworth reservoir opposite the famously haunted ‘Owd Betts’ public house, this is a great way to explore the wind farm at Scout Moor whilst enjoying the solitude away from the nearby conurbations. The route also skirts around the highest point of the Forest of Rossendale – Hailstorm Hill. One feels on top of an entire City during the long descent back down the Pennine Bridleway when over the Rossendale border, while somehow in the total quiet of the Greater Manchester countryside. Be prepared for some breathtaking views that stretch as far as the Cheshire plain on these under-explored paths.
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I lost count of how many reservoirs are on this walk!
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Starting at the Ashworth reservoir opposite the famously haunted ‘Owd Betts’ public house, this is a great way to explore the wind farm at Scout Moor whilst enjoying the solitude away from the nearby conurbations. The route also skirts around the highest point of the Forest of Rossendale – Hailstorm Hill. One feels on top of an entire City during the long descent back down the Pennine Bridleway when over the Rossendale border, while somehow in the total quiet of the Greater Manchester countryside. Be prepared for some breathtaking views that stretch as far as the Cheshire plain on these under-explored paths.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for walking around Rochdale?
Many lakes in the Rochdale area offer excellent walking opportunities. Hollingworth Lake features a popular, mostly flat 4 km (2.5 mile) circular walk. Watergrove Reservoir provides walking trails with spectacular views and links to the Pennine Bridleway. Greenbooth Reservoir offers a pleasant walk around the lake or combined with longer moorland routes. The Naden Valley Reservoirs also provide particularly scenic views for walkers.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Rochdale area?
Yes, several lakes are well-suited for families. Hollingworth Lake is an award-winning country park with a wide array of facilities, watersports, and a pram/wheelchair-friendly circular walk. Greenbooth Reservoir and Piethorne Reservoir are also noted as family-friendly options, as is Rydings Dam Nature Reserve.
What kind of water activities can I do at Rochdale's lakes?
Hollingworth Lake is a prime destination for watersports, including sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. Fishing is also popular at Hollingworth Lake and Watergrove Reservoir.
Which lakes offer historical insights or unique features?
Watergrove Reservoir was built over a submerged village, and ruins from the original settlement can still be found around the landscape. Greenbooth Reservoir also submerged a village during its construction. Warland Reservoir is historically significant as one of the largest dams in England when built around 1857 to support the Rochdale Canal. Hollingworth Lake has a rich history as a Victorian resort and an industrial engineering feat.
Are there accessible trails around the lakes for prams or wheelchairs?
Yes, Hollingworth Lake is particularly accessible, offering a mostly flat 4 km circular walk around its perimeter suitable for wheelchairs and prams. The country park also has good public transport links and on-site parking.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes around Rochdale?
Many of the trails around Rochdale's reservoirs, such as Watergrove Reservoir and Hollingworth Lake, are popular for dog walking. It's always advisable to keep dogs under control, especially near livestock or wildlife, and to check for any specific local restrictions.
Where can I find cafes or refreshments near the lakes?
Hollingworth Lake is well-equipped with amenities, including cafes and places for refreshments. It's a great spot to enjoy fish and chips or other snacks after a walk.
What are the options for hiking and cycling near Rochdale's lakes?
The lakes provide excellent starting points for various outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Blackstone Edge & Dog Hill loop from Blackstone Reservoir' or the 'Rochdale Way and Piethorne Reservoirs Loop'. Cycling options include routes like 'Blackstone Edge Reservoir – Hebden Bridge Canal Basin loop from Smithy Bridge' for road cycling, or 'Blackstone Edge Reservoir – Shoulder of Mutton Pub loop from Smithy Bridge' for touring bicycles. You can find more detailed routes in the Hiking around Rochdale and Cycling around Rochdale guides.
Is there parking available at the popular lakes?
Yes, Hollingworth Lake offers on-site parking, though charges may apply. For other reservoirs like Watergrove Reservoir, parking is typically available in designated areas near trailheads.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Rochdale?
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for watersports and leisurely walks, with lush greenery. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the surrounding landscapes. Even in winter, the area can be stunning, with opportunities for crisp walks, though temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations like Warland Reservoir.
Are there any lesser-known or tranquil lakes worth exploring?
Beyond the most popular spots, the Naden Valley Reservoirs offer particularly scenic and tranquil views. Piethorne Reservoir and Blackstone Edge Reservoir are also part of the network, providing quieter walking opportunities amidst the Pennine landscape.
What makes Hollingworth Lake a popular destination?
Hollingworth Lake is an award-winning country park known for its wide range of activities, including watersports, fishing, and a popular circular walk. Its historical significance as a Victorian resort, combined with its accessible facilities and beautiful scenery, makes it a favorite for all ages. You can find more information on the official websites: visitrochdale.com and rochdale.gov.uk.
What are the Naden Valley Reservoirs known for?
The Naden Valley Reservoirs are known for their tranquil, steep-sided setting and particularly scenic views. They drain brooks from Knowle Hill, Cowpe Moss, and Rooley Moor, contributing to the diverse natural beauty of the Rochdale area.
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