Easy hikes and walks around Piethorne Reservoir

There are over 170 easy hiking trails around Piethorne Reservoir, offering a wide variety of options to explore the scenic landscapes.

Easy hikes around Piethorne Reservoir feature expansive open moorland, serene waterside paths, and undulating hills. You'll encounter a network of Victorian-era reservoirs, woodlands, and often enjoy panoramic views across the valley.

Yes, the area is known for its impressive stone-step cascades, which function as artificial waterfalls, especially after heavy rainfall. Notable cascades include where water flows from Norman Hill Reservoir into Piethorne Reservoir, and another at Ogden Reservoir.

Many of the easy reservoir circuits are suitable for families. The paths around Piethorne Reservoir itself are generally flatter, making them a good choice for walks with children.

The Piethorne Reservoir area is generally dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially around livestock and to protect local wildlife. Please be mindful of other hikers and local regulations.

You can explore several historical remnants, including the Victorian-era reservoirs themselves, such as Piethorne Reservoir (completed in 1868). Look out for old mill sites, the ruins of farms like Rag Hole Farm, and the Lime House, a stone building from 1866 used for treating reservoir water.

Yes, many easy routes are circular. For example, the Overflow at Ogden Reservoir – Piethorne Reservoir loop from Newhey is a popular 5.9 km circular trail that navigates through the central part of the reservoir system.

The Piethorne Valley is a haven for wildlife, particularly birds. You might spot curlews, meadow pipits, wheatears, skylarks, and great crested grebes. Buzzards and peregrines are also occasionally sighted, along with various mammals and butterflies.

The trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and active wildlife, while autumn brings vibrant colors. Even in winter, the landscape has a unique charm, though some paths might be muddy or icy.

The duration varies depending on the route. For instance, the Norman Hill Spillway – Piethorne Reservoir loop from Denshaw, which is 4.5 km, typically takes about 1 hour and 18 minutes. Shorter routes like the Piethorne Reservoir – Stone Hut with Fireplace loop from Newhey (2.8 km) can be completed in under an hour.

Yes, there are several parking options available near the trailheads for easy access to the reservoir walks. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,000 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil waterside paths, the impressive Victorian engineering of the reservoirs, and the panoramic views across the Pennine foothills.

While some areas around Ogden Reservoir feature uneven and steep sections, the path encircling Piethorne Reservoir is generally flatter. However, specific accessibility for pushchairs or wheelchairs can vary, so checking individual route details for terrain information is recommended.