EMBSAY
Embsay: Photo Credit Yorkshire Water
Distance: 1 mile
Parking: Embsay Reservoir car park just off Pasture Rd, Skipton BD23 6PR
Terrain & Gradient: Half of the walk is on wide footpaths and tarmac road and half is on grass paths which can be boggy. The footbridge is also rather narrow.
The shortest of the local reservoir walks, this short circular walk around the Embsay Moor Reservoir gives wide views over the surrounding fields and moorland edge including Embsay Crag. This is a new route to us, suggested by a friend and we will definitely be trying it out this Summer!
For further information visit here
FEWSTON
Fewston: Photo Credit Yorkshire Water
Distance: 4 miles
Parking: Swinsty Moor car park (LS21 2NP) £1 per hour or £5 for the day (2024)
Terrain & Gradient: Mostly wide and well surfaced, however, there are some short sections of the path with fairly steep gradients and larger stones (over 30mm). there are no steps, stiles or gates on this route.
A relatively gentle walk, perfect for prams, this route encircles the beautiful Fewston Reservoir in the charming Washburn Valley. Crossing over Fewston embankment, you’re spoilt for choice as you’re presented with spectacular views over Fewston Reservoir and down the valley across Swinsty Reservoir. There is also a wheelchair-accessible route available here.
For further information visit here
THRUSCROSS
Thruscross: Photo Credit Visit Harrogate
Distance: 4.5-miles
Parking: Reservoir Road (HG3 4BB) next to the dam wall. Please note, there is a 1.8 metre height barrier. FREE
Terrain & Gradient: The route features stiles, steps and steep muddy banks riddled with tree roots. We recommend you bring sturdy boots, warm clothing, waterproofs and extra food/drink for this adventurous walk.
The views across the Washburn Valley are beautiful here, but what intrigued the Mini-Mumblers (and me!) the most was the history. Look out for the remains of the flooded village of West End which was submerged underwater so the reservoir could be built. The remains of a flax mill can be seen at the edge of the reservoir, and more of the village has been revealed at times of drought! The walk features woodlands, moorland, pastures and ruined farmsteads galore!
For further information visit here
SWINSTY
Swinsty: Photo Credit wheretowalk.co.uk
Distance: 3 miles
Parking: Swinsty Moor and Fewston Reservoir car park (LS21 2NP) £1 per hour or £5 for the day (2024)
Terrain & Gradient: Footpaths are consistently wide and well-surfaced. Mostly flat or gently undulating. There are no steps, stiles or gates on this route.
This route around Swinsty Reservoir has stunning views across the water and the surrounding landscape, especially from the embankment near the River Washburn or various rest points dotted along the walk. The Mini-Mumblers really enjoyed skimming stones and spotting ducks on our last visit!
For further information visit here
ECCUP RESERVOIR
Eccup: Photo Credit Yorkshire Water
Distance: 4.5 miles
Parking: There are no car parks at Eccup. Parking is possible on Alwoodley lane (LS17 7PF), please park carefully and have consideration for other road users and residents.
Terrain & Gradient: A mixture of footpaths and grass paths which can be boggy. There are stiles on this route.
On the outskirts of Leeds, this circular walk is ideal for families with plenty to see along the way. The route passes through woodlands and the quaint village of Eccup, over a dam and alongside a local golf course. The reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is nationally important for birds, which is why it is especially important to stick to the paths and view nature from afar. You may also see the unmistakable red kite, there were lots circling as we walked due to the Farm fields being baled.
For further information visit here
