The best walks and hikes around Thornthwaite With Padside

Yes, the area is well-suited for family outings. A great option is the Fewston Reservoir Dam – View of Fewston Reservoir loop from Blubberhouses. It's a moderate walk on well-maintained paths, offering lovely views of the water and surrounding countryside, making it manageable for most family members.

Dogs are generally welcome on the public footpaths in the area. However, you will be walking through farmland with livestock and across moorland with ground-nesting birds. It is essential to keep your dog on a lead and under close control at all times to protect wildlife and farm animals.

Parking is available at several key starting points for popular trails. For reservoir walks, you can use the Thruscross Reservoir Car Park. For routes exploring the moors and local follies, the Toft Gate Car Park is a convenient option. Always check local signage as parking regulations can change.

The terrain is classic Yorkshire Dales. Expect a mix of well-defined reservoir paths, grassy pastures divided by traditional dry stone walls, and sections of rough, boggy ground on the open heather moorlands. Footwear with good grip and waterproofing is highly recommended.

The walk around Thruscross Reservoir is more challenging than other local reservoir loops like Fewston. While the distance is manageable, the trail includes sections of rough pasture and uneven moorland paths that can be demanding, especially after wet weather. It's best suited for hikers with some experience.

The area is rich in history. Many trails pass by significant landmarks, including a beautifully preserved 15th-century packhorse bridge near Padside Beck. When walking around Thruscross Reservoir, you might even spot the remains of the submerged village of West End if water levels are very low.

The immediate parish of Thornthwaite with Padside has limited options for refreshments. However, the nearby town of Pateley Bridge offers a variety of traditional pubs, cafes, and shops, making it an excellent place to visit before or after your hike.

There is a wide variety of routes to explore, with over 400 trails mapped on komoot. These range from easy strolls around the reservoirs to challenging full-day treks across the moors, ensuring there's a walk for every fitness level.

The region is highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers frequently praise the stunning and varied scenery, from the tranquil reservoir shores to the vast, heather-clad moorlands. The sense of peace and the well-preserved historical features are also popular highlights.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Simon's Seat and Rocking Hall loop from Thruscross Reservoir Car Park — Nidderdale is an excellent choice. This long-distance route involves significant elevation gain and crosses rugged moorland terrain, rewarding hikers with panoramic views.

The area is full of scenic spots. The gritstone formations of Yorke's Folly offer fantastic views across Nidderdale. For a unique experience, the Coldstone Cut is a massive piece of public art with a viewing platform that provides an incredible perspective of the working quarry and the surrounding landscape.

Thornthwaite with Padside is a rural area with limited public transport services. Reaching the main trailheads and car parks is most conveniently done by car. If you plan to rely on public transport, it's best to check services to larger nearby towns like Pateley Bridge and arrange a taxi from there.