The best cycling routes around Booth Wood Reservoir
4.6
(84)
2,257
riders
120
rides
Touring cycling around Booth Wood Reservoir offers routes through the Pennines of West Yorkshire, characterized by an upland freshwater reservoir and surrounding moorland. The terrain features varied landscapes, including moderately undulating rides, hidden valleys, and rolling hills. Cyclists can expect mostly paved surfaces, with some unpaved segments adding to the challenge. This area connects to a chain of reservoirs, providing expanded touring options and scenic vistas.
Best touring cycling routes around Booth Wood Reservoir
- The most popular touring cycling route is View of the River – Blackstone Edge Reservoir loop from Ripponden, a 14.3 miles (23.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 36 minutes to complete. This route offers views of the River Ryburn and the surrounding Pennine landscape.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Baitings Reservoir Dam Walkway – View of the River loop from Ripponden, a moderate 11.0 miles (17.7 km) path. This route provides scenic views of Baitings Reservoir and its dam walkway.
- Local touring cyclists also love the View of the River – Baitings Reservoir Dam Walkway loop from Ripponden, a 8.3 miles (13.4 km) trail leading through the Calderdale countryside, often completed in about 58 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Booth Wood Reservoir is defined by reservoir views, moorland scenery, and hidden valleys. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to various fitness levels.
- The routes in Booth Wood Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 80 reviews. More than 2500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Booth Wood Reservoir's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
6
riders
17.9km
01:16
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
33.3km
02:46
820m
820m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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5
riders
31.6km
02:18
540m
540m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
13.4km
00:59
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
20
riders
53.4km
03:53
1,120m
1,120m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A tranquil and beautiful spot with an excellent pub and accommodation
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Warley Moor Reservoir, also called Fly Flatts Reservoir, is a drinking water reservoir in West Yorkshire. It offers miles of trails surrounded by woodlands, lakes, gardens, and water features to explore.
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Useful food and drink stop alongside the locks
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Lovely pint after a hike to Stoodley Pike. Steak and Ale pie was cracking!
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Pub serving real ales. Recently under new management and have not visited since it changed hands
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Scammonden Water is a reservoir owned and managed by Yorkshire Water. The dam that holds the reservoir back carries the M62 motorway. It's the only structure like this in the UK where the road and water companies worked together on a joint project. The reservoir and dam was made using the clay cut from further down the road route. The reservoir was completed in 1969 and the road opened in 1970. The valley flooded Deanhead Village and the surrounding area. The church and vicarage survived. The vicarage is now the sailing club.
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After the climb up on a hot day. The ice cream van almost seems like an oasis in the desert
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Booth Wood Reservoir?
There are over 130 touring cycling routes available around Booth Wood Reservoir, offering a wide range of options for cyclists of all abilities.
What are the difficulty levels of the touring cycling routes in this area?
The routes around Booth Wood Reservoir cater to various fitness levels. You'll find 16 easy routes, 51 moderate routes, and 66 difficult routes, ensuring there's a challenge suitable for everyone.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the touring cycling routes around Booth Wood Reservoir?
The terrain is varied, featuring moderately undulating rides through sparse moorlands, hidden valleys, and rolling hills. Many routes have mostly paved surfaces, making them suitable for touring bikes, though some segments may be unpaved and more challenging.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Booth Wood Reservoir?
Yes, many routes in the area are circular loops. For example, the Withens End Lane – Scammonden Reservoir loop from Ripponden is a challenging 33.3 km circular route that takes you past Scammonden Reservoir.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints I might see while cycling?
Cyclists can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding moorlands and the reservoir itself. You might also pass the unique Stott Hall Farm, situated between the M62 carriageways, or the historic Rishworth Congregational Chapel. The area also features connections to other reservoirs like Baitings Reservoir, where an old packhorse bridge can sometimes be seen during dry spells.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes?
While many routes involve varied terrain and elevation, there are 16 easy routes available that could be suitable for families. It's always recommended to check the specific route details for distance and elevation before heading out with children.
Where can I park my car when visiting Booth Wood Reservoir for cycling?
Parking is available at the Booth Wood Reservoir car park, which serves as an accessible starting point for many rides in the area.
Are there places to eat or drink along the cycling routes?
Yes, there are several pubs nearby that offer great views and food, providing ideal rest stops. These include The White House and the Moorcock Inn. The Booth Wood Inn is also less than a mile north of the reservoir.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes around Booth Wood Reservoir?
The routes around Booth Wood Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 80 reviews. Over 2500 touring cyclists have explored the varied terrain, often praising the scenic views and diverse cycling opportunities.
What is the elevation gain like on the touring cycling routes?
The routes offer a range of elevation gains. For instance, the Baitings Reservoir Dam Walkway – View of the River loop from Ripponden has an elevation gain of around 270 meters, while more challenging routes like The Moorings – Withens End Lane loop from Ripponden can have over 530 meters of ascent.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling around Booth Wood Reservoir?
The area offers compelling landscapes year-round. However, for the most comfortable touring cycling experience, spring and summer typically provide milder weather and longer daylight hours. Always check local weather conditions, especially during autumn and winter, as moorland conditions can change rapidly.
What types of bikes are suitable for the trails around Booth Wood Reservoir?
Given that many routes feature mostly paved surfaces with some unpaved segments, touring bikes are generally suitable. For more challenging unpaved sections, a gravel bike or a touring bike with wider, more robust tires would offer greater comfort and control.
Most popular routes around Booth Wood Reservoir
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