Often unofficially crowned the “Capital of the North,” Manchester is a bold, energetic city packed with creativity, culture, and non-stop action.
But here’s the twist. Step outside the buzzing city centre, and suddenly the noise fades. What replaces it? Some of the UK’s most incredible countryside walks, calm views, and fresh air that hits different 🌿
And when it comes to standout walking spots, the real gems are closer than you think. The nearby reservoirs steal the show.
“City vibes or nature escape?”
Honestly… why not both? 😎
Even with the North’s famous grey skies and steady rain, stepping into nature still hits the soul in the best way. There’s something calming about walking beside a wide stretch of water, letting the world slow down.
And when the sun decides to show up?
“Say less.”
That’s when the walk turns legendary ☀️
With well-designed paths that stay flat and easy to follow, reservoir walks are never too demanding. They’re made for everyone.
“Do I need to be super fit?”
Not at all. Just lace up and enjoy the walk 😌
From sparkling reservoirs across Greater Manchester to scenic spots stretching into Lancashire and Yorkshire, the options are stacked. This list opens the door to places worth exploring, wandering, and getting properly stuck into 🌿
Reservoirs in and around Manchester
Location: Rochdale, Greater Manchester
Starting Point: Forsyth Lane, Rochdale, OL12 7TL
Still flying under the radar for anyone who isn’t local, this calm 7-kilometre loop on the edge of Greater Manchester links four separate reservoirs and delivers stunning views the whole way around.
“Hidden gem or top-tier walk?”
Definitely both 😎
Before the water took over, this area was once home to the village of Hasnah. Construction of the reservoir began in 1958, and the settlement was eventually demolished and submerged beneath the water, leaving behind a story as deep as the views 🌊
The walk features smooth, well-maintained paths, and completing the full loop around all four reservoirs takes around two hours at a relaxed pace.
“Too long?”
Nah, it flies by when the views keep delivering 😎
If the weather plays nice, you’ll spot some quality picnic spots along the route. And if you’re after something shorter, you’re covered. You don’t need to tackle all four reservoirs, as several smaller trails let you cut the walk short without missing the vibe 🌿
Location: Greenfield, Greater Manchester
Starting Point: Dove Stone Car Park, OL3 7NE
Perched right on the edge of Oldham and the Peak District National Park, Dovestones is hailed as one of the top walking spots in the county.
“Bucket-list walk or local secret?”
Honestly… a bit of both 😎
Sitting above the charming village of Greenfield, the reservoir draws walkers thanks to its looping footpaths around the scenic embankment, which spill out into the stunning surrounding uplands.
Add in the sailing club at Dovestones, and you’ve got boats drifting across the water against the rugged backdrop of Greenfield—pure visual magic ⛵
The main circular route is a relaxed 4 kilometres, but adventure seekers can branch out onto Saddleworth Moor or wander to Greenfield and Yeoman Hey Reservoirs for a longer, more epic trek 🌿
Fun twist for your walk: back in 1981, King Taufa’ahau Tupou IV of Tonga paid a visit to Dovestones during the Royal Wedding celebrations.
You can still spot a commemorative carved stone at the western corner of Yeoman Hey Reservoir, known as “The King of Tonga Stone.”
“Eagle eyes ready?”
Keep a lookout—it’s a cool little treasure along your ramble 👀
Location: Edgworth, Lancashire
Starting Point: Entwistle Reservoir Car Park, Batridge Rd, BL7 0LU
Nestled on the edge of Greater Manchester in the peaceful town of Edgeworth, Lancashire, Turton and Entwistle Reservoir earns its reputation as a top walking spot.
“Why the hype?”
One step on its trails, and you’ll see why 😎
The classic 4-kilometre loop winds around the sparkling lake, making it perfect for all ages and abilities. For those craving a bit more adventure, several offshoot trails let you dive deeper into the surrounding woodlands 🌳
Feeling bold? You can even extend your route to include the nearby Wayoh Reservoir, which is just as stunning.
With plenty of spots to pause, soak in the views, or enjoy a picnic, it’s no wonder this walk is a family favorite that keeps people coming back.
Fun fact: Turton and Entwistle, along with Wayoh Reservoir, provide about 50% of Bolton’s drinking water, storing roughly 3.4 million litres 💧
Location: Hebden Bridge, Yorkshire
Starting Point: Widdop Reservoir Carpark, Hebden Bridge HX7 7AZ
Perched just beyond Greater Manchester in the hills of West Yorkshire, this serene walk loops around the hidden reservoirs tucked into the rugged Widdop Valley.
“Need a break from the chaos?”
This tranquil countryside is the perfect escape, offering peace, fresh air, and a real reset for the soul 🌿
With three stunning reservoirs—Widdop, Gorple Upper, and Gorple Lower—this 4-mile trail is packed with breathtaking views every step of the way.
“Love a bit of mystery?”
Keep your eyes peeled for the unusual rock formations along the path. Steeped in local folklore, some even hint at connections to the mysterious and occult 👀
Fun fact: One rock carving nearby bears a striking resemblance to the hawk-headed Egyptian god, Horus. Some theorists believe it could be linked to an old occult group from Bradford called the Temple of Horus 🌄
Location: Hurstwood Village, Worsthorne, Burnley
Starting Point: Hurstwood Reservoir, Hurstwood, BB10 3LG
Hurstwood Reservoir offers a short, easy stroll through beautiful moors and woodland, taking no more than an hour to enjoy.
“Want more adventure?”
You can extend your walk along the Pennine Bridleway National Trail or the Burnley Way footpath, tailoring the hike to your pace 🌿
Pro tip: Many walkers combine Hurstwood with Widdop and Gorple Reservoirs to create one epic loop. Why not make a full day of it and tackle the whole lot?
For those craving even longer routes, check out our guide from Burnley to Hebden Bridge for extra inspiration 🏞️
Tucked away in Dunnockshaw, right next to the Burnley Millennium Forest, lies the scenic Clowbridge Reservoir.
“History meets adventure?”
Absolutely 😎
Built in 1866, the reservoir led to the depopulation of the historic Gambleside village. Today, it’s a favorite spot for both walkers and water sports enthusiasts, blending history with outdoor fun 🌊
Location: Dunnockshaw, Burnley, Lancashire
Starting Point: Clowbridge Reservoir Car Park, Burnley, BB11 5P
The easy 3-kilometre loop circles the sparkling Clowbridge Reservoir, where you might catch glimpses of sailors, windsurfers, and fishermen enjoying the water.
“Fancy a longer adventure?”
Several trails branch off from the main path, taking you through nearby woodlands and over the rolling moors 🌿
One standout route leads to the iconic Singing Ringing Tree, guiding you through the Memorial Forest and Dunnockshaw Community Woodland—a real treat for walkers.
For all the details, check out our full ‘Singing Ringing Tree Walk’ post 🎵
Hidden high on the moors between Todmorden and Walsden, about an hour’s drive from Manchester, Gaddings Dam is a true northern gem.
“Ever heard of England’s highest beach?”
This reservoir is famous for its tiny stretch of sand, fondly nicknamed ‘Todmorden Beach’, sitting 355 metres above sea level and 60 miles inland 🌄
In summer, visitors flock here to stroll the loop, relax on the sands, and soak in the views. While open-water swimming isn’t recommended, the dam has been defunct for years and is carefully maintained by local heroes to keep it safe.
Built in the late 1800s to supply water to the booming cotton-mill industry, Gaddings Dam eventually fell into neglect as factories switched to steam power. In 2001, when the government planned to drain the Victorian embankment, a determined group of locals stepped in, bought the reservoir, restored it, and continue to care for it today.
Absolute legends, right? 😎
Location: Todmorden, Yorkshire
Starting Point: Lumbutts Rd, Todmorden OL14 6JJ
Tucked away in the Rossendale Valley, this spot hides three reservoirs waiting to be explored: Calf Hey, Ogden, and Holden Wood.
“History meets hiking?”
Exactly 😎
Once the site of the historic village of Haslingden Grane, the area now draws walkers eager to wander around these three shimmering reservoirs and soak up the scenic vibes 🌿
Location: Haslingden, Rossendale, Lancashire
Starting Point: Clough Head Car Park, 462 Grane Road, Haslingden, BB4 4AT
Back in the 19th century, this area was infamous for illegal whisky distilling, locally called ‘whisky spinning’.
“Love a bit of mystery on your walk?”
Keep your eyes open—remnants of the old village still pepper the trails, complete with informational plaques telling their story 👀
You can keep it simple with a stroll around Calf Hey or stretch your legs across multiple reservoirs.
“Our top pick?”
The Haslingden Grane Circular—it hits all three reservoirs and even takes you past the striking local quarries 🌄
Stretching just over 7 miles, this walk is one of the longer trails on our list—but thanks to its mostly flat terrain, it remains a gentle and enjoyable adventure for everyone.
“Looking for variety?”
Nestled near the Victorian spa town of Harrogate, Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs draw walkers, runners, birdwatchers, and nature lovers alike 🌿
Location: Otley, Harrogate, Yorkshire
Starting Point: North Lane, Otley LS21 2NP
Offering stunning views across the sparkling waters and surrounding countryside, the embankment near the River Washburn is particularly breathtaking.
“Want the full experience?”
Loop around both Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs for the complete adventure, or take them individually—Fewston is a 4-mile stroll, while Swinsty comes in at 3 miles 🌄
These are just a few of the amazing walks waiting in the area.
“Thirsty for more trails?”
Check out our posts like ‘Best Walks in Greater Manchester’ and ‘Top Walks in Lancashire’ for even more rambling inspiration 🌿
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