Thornthwaite With Padside
Thornthwaite With Padside
Top 20 Lakes around Thornthwaite With Padside
Best lakes around Thornthwaite With Padside offer diverse outdoor experiences in North Yorkshire, England. This civil parish provides access to several appealing lakes and reservoirs, including Fewston Reservoir and Thruscross Reservoir, which are popular for walking routes. The area's natural landscape features tranquil waters and surrounding countryside, making it suitable for various outdoor activities and family friendly walks.
Best lakes around Thornthwaite With Padside
- The most popular lakes is Fewston Reservoir Circular Path, a viewpoint that features a 6…
Last updated: May 22, 2026
Fewston Reservoir Circular Path
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Thruscross Reservoir
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Lindley Wood Reservoir
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Glasshouses Dam
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Ruins of West End Village at Thruscross Reservoir
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Popular around Thornthwaite With Padside
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Glasshouses Mill, which the dam served, was initially a corn mill but later transitioned to flax processing in the early 1800s. The dam was built in 1850 by brothers John and George Metcalfe, who expanded the mill and its operations. The mill was a prosperous business, employing around 250 people and known for its responsible employment practices. By the late 19th century, the decline of linen led local mills to produce jute and hemp, but Glasshouses Mill continued flax spinning until the death of George Metcalfe Jr. in 1898. Following his death, the mill struggled, eventually declaring bankruptcy in 1907. The dam is now a recreational area, offering opportunities for fishing, skating in winter, and water sports in summer, although it was literally bone dry when I passed in May 2025 (see photos).
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Undoubtedly the most scenic of the Washburn reservoirs with the moorland backdrop to the north. The circular route around the reservoir from the car park is about 5 miles, the track on the southwestern side runs along the edge of plantations and offers some shade from the sun and shelter from the elements. The track on the northeastern side is more exposed, and if you do the whole circuit you will cross over Far Comb Hill and the plantation along the edge of the reservoir at Whit Moor - a great route.
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Good quality paths all the way around Thruscross, Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs, with parking at Swinsty Moor Plantation, Fewston village, Blubberhouses, and Thruscross Reservoir dam. If you do all 3 reservoirs then that clocks in at a 15-mile route, but is well worth it. The paths around the southern reservoirs are generally wide and flat. There are benches at periodic intervals on the eastern side of Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs, where you can take a break and admire the views.
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The walk from the large car park at Thruscross Reservoir dam up the west side of the reservoir to Cloggers Lane is magical and gives far better views than the tracks along Scot Lane on the eastern side. The track meanders along the edge of coniferous plantations, giving dappled shade on a sunny day and unobstructed views across the reservoir.
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Lindley Wood is a compensation reservoir, which means it is not linked to the supply of water to homes but is there to take excess water from Fewston and Swinsty reservoirs, which are nearby. This is why there is not much water in there.
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Here in the Washburn Valley are two reservoirs right next to each other, Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs. You can walk around both of them or just do a solo jaunt around one. The walk around Fewston reservoir is less obstructed than Swinsty and is the better of the two walks. The Fewston Path goes for 3.7 miles (6 km) around the reservoir on well-maintained paths that, on a sunny day, will give you super nice views along with a good dose of peace and tranquillity.
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It is very odd to think that an entire village once existed here, but that's what you're looking at here. The entire village of West End. Cloggers Lane dropped here towards Patrick's Mill, the Butcher's Arm and a church, all of which vanished under the Thruscross Reservoir in the mid 1960s. A curious, eerie sight.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes for walking around Thornthwaite With Padside?
For a popular and accessible walk, the Fewston Reservoir Circular Path offers a well-maintained 6 km route with scenic views. Another highly regarded option is Thruscross Reservoir, known for its remote location and a scenic 5-mile circular route with a moorland backdrop.
Are there family-friendly walking routes around the lakes?
Yes, Fewston Reservoir is particularly suitable for families, offering a scenic 4.5-mile walking path that is also suitable for pushchairs. The paths around Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs are generally wide and flat, with benches at periodic intervals, making them ideal for a leisurely family outing.
What historical or unique features can be found at these lakes?
At Thruscross Reservoir, you can discover the eerie remnants of the submerged village of West End, including a flax mill, which become visible when water levels are low. Glasshouses Dam also has a rich history, having served the Glasshouses Mill, which transitioned from a corn mill to flax processing.
Where can I find tranquil and serene lake experiences?
For a truly peaceful escape, Thruscross Reservoir is noted for its remote location and serene atmosphere, making it a haven for wildlife. Eavestone Lake, though not in the guide highlights, is also celebrated for its peaceful environment, stunning landscapes, and abundant wildlife, offering a quiet retreat.
What outdoor activities are available near the lakes around Thornthwaite With Padside?
The area offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including the 7.5 km 'Thruscross Reservoir and Cloggers Lane loop'. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes like the 'Thruscross Reservoir – Fewston Reservoir loop'. Runners can enjoy trails such as the 'Fewston Reservoir Dam – View of Fewston Reservoir loop'. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for hiking, road cycling, and running.
Are there any lakes known for their natural beauty and wildlife?
Eavestone Lake is particularly known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, offering a serene natural escape. Thruscross Reservoir is also considered a haven for wildlife due to its remote setting and moorland backdrop.
Where can I find parking and facilities near the lakes?
Fewston Reservoir offers conveniences like free parking and restroom facilities. Parking is also available at Swinsty Moor Plantation, Fewston village, Blubberhouses, and Thruscross Reservoir dam. Glasshouses Dam also provides picturesque parking with easy access to walking paths.
What is unique about Lindley Wood Reservoir?
Lindley Wood Reservoir is one of the oldest in the Washburn Valley, built between 1869 and 1876. It's known for its green wooded banks and open countryside, offering an aesthetic walking experience. It functions as a compensation reservoir, taking excess water from nearby Fewston and Swinsty reservoirs, which means its water levels can vary significantly, sometimes even drying up.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in this region?
Visitors frequently praise the tranquil environment, the well-maintained paths, and the beautiful views offered by the lakes. The opportunity for peaceful strolls amidst picturesque scenery, observing wildlife, and the diverse options for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling are highly appreciated by the komoot community.
Are there any long-distance walking options that combine multiple reservoirs?
Yes, it's possible to combine walks around Thruscross, Fewston, and Swinsty Reservoirs for a longer route, which can total around 15 miles. The paths around the southern reservoirs (Fewston and Swinsty) are generally wide and flat, offering a good challenge for those looking for an extended walk.
Can I find any hidden gems or less-known spots?
While the main reservoirs are popular, Eavestone Lake is often described as a hidden gem for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, offering a quiet retreat away from more frequented spots. Its serene environment is perfect for those seeking solitude.
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