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United Kingdom
England
Yorkshire And The Humber

Appletreewick

Top 18 Lakes around Appletreewick

Best lakes around Appletreewick are primarily reservoirs and the River Wharfe, situated within the picturesque Yorkshire Dales. The area offers diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities for visitors. The River Wharfe flows directly by the village, providing scenic riverside walks and wild swimming spots. Several reservoirs nearby offer accessible trails and tranquil surroundings.

Best lakes around Appletreewick

  • The most popular lakes is Embsay Reservoir, a lake that supplies water to the Skipton area. It offers easy walks around its…

Last updated: May 6, 2026

Embsay Reservoir

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This reservoir, which supplies water to the Skipton town area, has quite a lot of character because of the proud hills surrounding it. It is a great place for an …

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Scar House Reservoir Dam

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Scar House Reservoir’s dam was the largest in Britain when it was finished in 1936. Measuring 1,800 feet (549 metres) long and 170 feet (52 metres) high, the reservoir was …

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Thruscross Reservoir

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When the mist is low and a chill creeps on the wind, Thruscross Reservoir can be a particularly ghostly place to be. This is possibly due to the condemned village …

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Glasshouses Dam

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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 …

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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 …

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Hiking around Appletreewick

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RichD
June 1, 2025, Glasshouses Dam

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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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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glorious day for it

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embassy resovoir

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Oliver G
October 30, 2024, Embsay Reservoir

Run round the reservoir on decent tracks or better still head up onto the moor behind to Crookrise or Embsay Crag - both great routes with amazing views

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Scar House Reservoir is located in Nidderdale, North Yorkshire, England. The dam that forms Scar House Reservoir is an impressive structure. Here are some key points about Scar House Reservoir's dam: Construction: The construction of Scar House Reservoir began in 1921 and was completed in 1936. The purpose of the reservoir was to supply water to the Bradford area. Height and Type: The dam is an earth embankment dam, which means it is constructed using compacted earth. The height of Scar House Dam is approximately 72 meters (236 feet), making it one of the tallest dams in England. Reservoir Capacity: Scar House Reservoir has a capacity of around 40 billion liters (8.8 billion gallons) of water. The reservoir is part of a network of reservoirs in the area that collectively serve the purpose of water supply. Water Source: The reservoir collects water from the surrounding hills and moorlands, storing it for supply to the cities and towns downstream, particularly Bradford. Recreation: Apart from its primary function of water supply, Scar House Reservoir and its surrounding area also offer recreational opportunities. The reservoir is situated in a scenic landscape, making it a popular destination for walkers and nature enthusiasts. Management: The reservoir and dam are managed by Yorkshire Water, a company responsible for providing water and wastewater services in the Yorkshire region.

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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 some popular lakes for walking near Appletreewick?

For easy and scenic walks, consider Embsay Reservoir, which offers pleasant tracks and paths around its perimeter and is a good starting point for exploring nearby hills. Fewston Reservoir provides a scenic 4.5-mile walk suitable for families, while Grimwith Reservoir features a peaceful walk with a 'Miles without Stiles' section, making it accessible.

Are there any historical sites or unique landmarks related to the lakes in the area?

Yes, the Scar House Reservoir Dam is a significant landmark, once the largest dam in Britain when completed in 1936. Another unique site is Thruscross Reservoir, where the remains of the submerged village of West End can be seen when water levels are low, offering an eerie and fascinating glimpse into the past.

Where can I find family-friendly walks around the lakes near Appletreewick?

Fewston Reservoir is ideal for families, offering a scenic 4.5-mile walk around its perimeter that is suitable for pushchairs. Grimwith Reservoir also has a 'Miles without Stiles' short walk, ensuring accessibility for various visitors. The River Wharfe, flowing by Appletreewick, offers gentle riverside strolls suitable for all ages, particularly around the Bolton Abbey Estate.

Are there opportunities for wild swimming near Appletreewick?

The River Wharfe, which flows directly by Appletreewick, is a popular spot for wild swimming during warmer months. It's a refreshing option for those looking to take a dip in natural waters.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?

The area around Appletreewick's lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails ranging from easy to moderate, such as the 'High Shaws Laithe and Valve Tower loop from Grimwith Reservoir Car Park' or the 'Parcevall Hall and Gardens and River Wharfe loop'. For more details on hiking routes, visit the Hiking around Appletreewick guide. There are also road cycling routes available; explore them in the Road Cycling Routes around Appletreewick guide.

Are there any dog-friendly trails around the lakes?

Many of the trails around the reservoirs and the River Wharfe are dog-friendly. For example, the circular route around Thruscross Reservoir is noted as dog-friendly. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock, and check local signage for any specific restrictions.

What is the best time to visit the lakes around Appletreewick for walking?

The best time to visit for walking is generally during the warmer months, from spring through autumn, when the weather is more predictable and trails are drier. However, the serene atmosphere of the lakes can be enjoyed year-round, with winter offering a different, often quieter, experience, though some paths might be muddy or icy.

Are there accessible walks for people with limited mobility or pushchairs?

Yes, Grimwith Reservoir offers a 'Miles without Stiles' short walk, designed to be accessible for a wider range of visitors. Fewston Reservoir also has a 4.5-mile perimeter walk that is suitable for pushchairs, providing beautiful views on an accessible path.

What natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?

You'll encounter diverse natural beauty, from the flowing waters of the River Wharfe with its scenic riverside paths and dramatic features like the Strid, to the tranquil shores of reservoirs like Winterburn Reservoir and Eavestone Lake. The surrounding Yorkshire Dales provide stunning landscapes, moorland backdrops, and abundant wildlife, making for picturesque views.

Is there parking available at the lakes?

Yes, several lakes offer convenient parking. Grimwith Reservoir has a free car park, and Fewston Reservoir also provides free parking facilities. Winterburn Reservoir and Glasshouses Dam offer serene parking spots, making access to their walking paths straightforward.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near Appletreewick?

Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquil and serene atmosphere, especially at places like Thruscross Reservoir, which is known for its remote location and peaceful environment. The impressive scale of structures like the Scar House Reservoir Dam and the character of reservoirs like Embsay Reservoir, surrounded by proud hills, are also highly valued. The opportunity for refreshing wild swims in the River Wharfe is another highlight.

Are there any hidden gems among the lakes near Appletreewick?

Eavestone Lake, located about 12 miles from Appletreewick, is considered a serene natural escape and a hidden gem. It offers stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful walk away from more crowded areas.

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