The best hikes from bus stations around Howden Reservoir

There are over 160 hiking routes around Howden Reservoir that are accessible via bus stations, offering a wide variety of experiences. These include 43 easy routes, 89 moderate routes, and 32 more challenging trails, ensuring options for all fitness levels.

The bus-accessible trails around Howden Reservoir offer a diverse range of terrain. You'll find paths along the expansive reservoir waters, through undulating forested hills, and across vast open moorlands. Many routes feature smooth-surfaced roads on one side of the reservoirs, while others involve more challenging stone paths or dirt tracks that can become muddy after rain. Expect a mix of gentle slopes and some more challenging ascents.

Yes, Howden Reservoir offers several family-friendly options accessible by bus. Many easy routes follow the reservoir-side paths, which are generally flatter and well-maintained. A good example is the Stone Bunkhouse loop from Derwent Reservoir, which is a shorter, easy hike perfect for families. The area around Fairholmes Visitor Centre, a common bus stop, also provides easy access to gentle walks.

Most trails around Howden Reservoir are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds, which are common in the Peak District. Always follow the Countryside Code. The varied terrain, from reservoir paths to moorland, provides excellent walking opportunities for you and your canine companion.

Many bus-accessible routes will take you past significant landmarks. You can explore the impressive Howden Dam, a marvel of early 20th-century engineering with historical significance. Further along, you might encounter the picturesque Slippery Stones Packhorse Bridge and River Derwent Trail, a popular spot for picnics. The general area of Howden Reservoir itself offers stunning views and tranquil waters.

Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point, often near a bus stop. For instance, the Derwent Dam – Derwent Dam loop from Derwent Reservoir is an easy circular option. The extensive trail network around the reservoirs is well-suited for creating various circular itineraries.

Howden Reservoir is beautiful year-round, but autumn is particularly vibrant with stunning tree colors, making it a photographer's paradise. Spring brings new life and pleasant temperatures. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while winter hikes can be serene, though paths may be muddy or icy. Always check weather conditions and bus schedules, especially outside of peak season.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 8,800 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the reservoir paths, and the stunning views from the moorlands. The accessibility by public transport is also frequently highlighted as a major benefit.

Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, routes that ascend to higher ground like Derwent Edge, Back Tor, or High Stones on the moorland offer more strenuous climbs and rewarding panoramic views. An example of a moderate challenge is the Rowlee Pasture – Alport Castles loop from Derwent Reservoir, which includes significant elevation gain. Another good option is the Derwent Dam – Back Tor Trig Point loop from Derwent Reservoir.

While specific bus schedules are outside the scope of this guide, Fairholmes Visitor Centre is a central hub and common bus stop for accessing the reservoir trails. It's always recommended to check the local public transport provider's website for the most up-to-date bus routes and timetables before planning your trip to ensure seamless access to the trailheads.

While the immediate Howden Reservoir area is known more for its reservoir and river features, the wider Upper Derwent Valley and Peak District region do feature waterfalls. The Middle Black Clough Waterfall is a notable natural highlight, and the more distant Kinder Downfall can be reached via dedicated hiking trails, some of which might be accessible by connecting bus routes, though they may require longer hikes from the bus stop.

Yes, the Fairholmes Visitor Centre, often a key bus stop, offers a café where you can get refreshments. This makes it a convenient starting or ending point for your hike, providing facilities like toilets and information in addition to food and drink options.