The best walks and hikes around Ogston Reservoir

Yes, many of the trails around Ogston Reservoir are great for walking with dogs. However, since many paths cross active farmland with livestock, it's essential to keep your dog on a lead, especially in these areas. The surrounding woodlands and waterside paths offer plenty of space for exploration.

The main parking area is the West Bank car park, which is free to use and a popular starting point for many walks. It's also where you'll find the public bird hide. Arriving early is recommended, particularly on sunny weekends, as it can fill up quickly.

Absolutely. For a gentle and relatively flat walk that's ideal for families, consider the Ogston Reservoir West Car Park – Ogston Sailing Club loop from Stretton CP. It's a shorter route that still provides lovely views across the water without significant climbs.

Getting to the reservoir by public transport can be challenging as there are no direct bus or train stops at the main car parks. The nearest towns with transport links are Alfreton and Chesterfield, but you would likely need a taxi for the final leg of the journey to the trailheads.

There isn't a single, continuous footpath that fully encircles the entire edge of Ogston Reservoir. However, there is an extensive network of trails that use a combination of waterside paths, adjacent woodland tracks, and public footpaths through farmland to create excellent circular routes with great views of the water, such as the Ogston Reservoir loop.

Ogston Reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), primarily known for its incredible birdlife. It's one of Derbyshire's top spots for birdwatching, especially for gulls in winter. You can use the public hide at the West Bank car park to spot various species. On the trails, you may also encounter typical woodland and farmland wildlife.

Yes, for those seeking a longer and more strenuous day out, the River Amber – River Amber Footbridge loop from Brackenfield CP offers a significant challenge. This extensive route covers over 20 km and includes more varied terrain and elevation, taking you further into the surrounding Amber Valley countryside.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 3,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning views across the water, the well-maintained paths through varied landscapes, and the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding countryside.

While there are no cafes directly on the reservoir's edge, several traditional pubs can be found in the nearby villages of Brackenfield, Ashover, and Wessington, just a short drive from the main car parks. They are perfect for a post-hike meal or drink.

Many trails offer fantastic perspectives. The paths along the west bank provide classic, wide-angle views across the water towards the sailing club. For elevated views, routes that climb into the rolling hills, like the Ogston Reservoir – Fall Hill Quarry loop from Ogston Reservoir, offer a different vantage point over the entire Amber Valley.

There are over 750 routes to explore in the Ogston Reservoir area. These range from short, easy strolls along the water to longer, more demanding hikes through the surrounding hills and farmland, offering options for every fitness level.

Ogston Reservoir is a popular centre for water sports. The Ogston Sailing Club offers sailing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. For more information on these activities, you can visit the Visit Derbyshire website. The area is also a prime location for birdwatching.