The best walks and hikes around Hognaston
4.6
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33,418
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17
hikes
Hikes around Hognaston are characterized by the large Carsington Water reservoir and the rolling hills of the Derbyshire countryside. The village serves as a starting point for routes that follow well-maintained paths along the water's edge and through agricultural fields. The landscape includes gentle ascents to viewpoints over the reservoir and the valley of the Henmore Brook.
Best hiking trails around Hognaston
- The most popular hiking route is Carsington Water circular, a 7.7 mile (12.4 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 15 minutes to complete. This is a moderate route that follows the shoreline of the reservoir.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Carsington Water – Carved Wooden Sculptures loop from Hognaston, a moderate 5.5 mile (8.9 km) path. The trail combines views of the water with a section featuring wooden art installations.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Roadford Lake Dam – Drip Off Tower loop from Hognaston, a 3.7 mile (6.0 km) trail leading through the surrounding fields, often completed in about 1 hour 35 minutes.
- Hiking around Hognaston is defined by reservoir-side paths, rolling green hills, and quiet country lanes. The network of trails provides options for different fitness levels, from easy family walks to longer circular routes.
- The routes in Hognaston are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 3,600 reviews. More than 25,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Hognaston's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.8
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2,307
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12.4km
03:16
110m
110m
Hike the Carsington Water circular trail and experience a diverse landscape around England's ninth-largest reservoir. You will follow mixed terrain, including gravel paths, paved sections, and unpaved trails, winding through cool woodlands and past open grassy areas. Enjoy continuous views of Carsington Water and the surrounding Derbyshire hills, keeping an eye out for unique wooden sculptures that dot the route. This moderate hike covers 7.7 miles (12.4 km) with 367 feet (112 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 16 minutes to complete.
The main circular trail is generally considered a moderate hike, but the paths are largely accessible and suitable for various skill levels. If you prefer a shorter outing, you can opt for a 3-mile moderate walk along the dam or a 1-mile accessible walk around Stones Island, which is suitable for pushchairs. To potentially avoid busier sections, consider starting your hike in an anti-clockwise direction or from one of the smaller car parks, such as Millfields or Sheepwash. Be aware that some parts of the path may run alongside roads, requiring you to be mindful of traffic at a few crossings.
Carsington Water is a designated nature reserve, making it an excellent spot for wildlife enthusiasts. You can observe diverse birdlife from numerous hides along the route, including swans, mallards, and Canada geese, amidst woodlands, wetlands, and wildflower meadows. The reservoir itself holds historical significance as England's ninth-largest and the last major British reservoir constructed in the 20th century. Beyond hiking, the visitor center offers amenities like shops and cafes, and the area provides opportunities for watersports and fishing.
4.5
(19)
348
hikers
5.76km
01:32
50m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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36
hikers
1.26km
00:20
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(4)
217
hikers
5.04km
01:18
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(3)
206
hikers
4.89km
01:16
30m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Planning for the reservoir started in the 1960s and construction started in 1979. In 1984, there was a partial collapse of the dam before it was filled. The dam was removed before the construction of a new dam began in 1989. The finished reservoir was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1992.
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Take a silly pic and post on this highlight, enjoying the ones so far!
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Nice little tower nearer to the end of our walk. Informative board with the details and its nice you can walk to the top of the tower!
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Very nice spot for a break with a view. The benches are comically tall though!
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This tower was initially a mystery to us, but we later discovered that it houses the pumping system for the water. It also looks quite cool floating on the water.
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Carsington Water is a reservoir managed by Severn Trent Water. Its main objective is to allow them to manage the flow of the River Derwent. During the winter and at times of high flow the river water is piped into the reservoir, the water is then released at times of lower flow to maintain the supply and river levels all year. Plans for the reservoir started in 1960 and construction started in 1979. A collapse of the partially constructed dam in 1984 set the project back and it wasn’t completed until 1992. Today there are nice walking trails with wooden sculpture all around the reservoir. There is a visitor centre and RSPB shop and wildlife reserve. The Carsington sailing club also uses the lake and it's popular with fishing people.
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If you need a breather on the way round, someone has thoughtfully installed a carved wooden armchair in the middle of a field for you to rest your legs and take in the view.
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The strong winds are very powerful across the dam wall. Those who cycle with children may want to use the road for the dam wall section on these occasions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many easy, family-friendly walks around Hognaston?
Yes, the area is well-suited for families. There are over ten easy-rated trails, many of which feature well-maintained paths. A great option is the Carved Wooden Sculptures loop from Hognaston, which is a relatively flat 3.2-mile (5.2 km) walk that is engaging for children.
Can I bring my dog on hikes in Hognaston?
Most trails around Hognaston and Carsington Water are dog-friendly, but it's best to keep your dog on a lead, especially near farmland with livestock and in wildlife-rich areas. The village of Hognaston has the historic Red Lion Inn, which is a welcoming spot to visit after a walk with your canine companion.
Where can I park for walks starting in Hognaston?
There is a car park at the Carsington Water Visitor Centre, which is a convenient starting point for many routes. You can also find some on-street parking within Hognaston village itself, but please be considerate of residents. For a walk starting right from a car park, consider the Carsington Sailing Club – Roadford Lake Dam loop from Hognaston CP.
Which hiking routes offer the best views of Carsington Water?
Many routes provide excellent views. For panoramic vistas over the reservoir and surrounding countryside, seek out trails that gain a bit of elevation. Hikes that lead towards Madge Hill or Hognaston Wynn are particularly rewarding. On a clear day, you can see for miles.
Are the trails around Hognaston accessible by public transport?
Hognaston is a small village with limited public transport services. The nearest major town with better bus and transport links is Ashbourne. It is generally more convenient to access the main trailheads, such as the Carsington Water Visitor Centre, by car.
What are some popular places for hiking near Hognaston?
Besides the immediate trails, Hognaston is a great base for exploring other renowned hiking spots. The Tissington trail and High Peak Trail are both highly-regarded traffic-free routes perfect for walking. For dramatic scenery, the striking gritstone outcrop of Black Rocks offers superb views and is a local favorite.
What do other hikers think of the routes around Hognaston?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 3,600 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths around Carsington Water and the beautiful, uninterrupted views across the reservoir.
How many hiking trails are there around Hognaston?
You can discover over 15 different hiking routes around Hognaston on komoot. These range from short, easy strolls suitable for all abilities to more moderate circular hikes through the rolling Derbyshire hills.
Are there any long-distance trails that pass near Hognaston?
While Hognaston itself isn't directly on a major long-distance path, it is very close to the Peak District National Park, which is crisscrossed by numerous famous trails. The nearby Tissington and High Peak trails offer longer walking opportunities and can be reached with a short drive.
What is the terrain like for hiking in Hognaston?
The hiking is characterized by gentle, rolling hills and well-surfaced paths, particularly around the Carsington Water reservoir. You'll encounter a mix of lakeside trails, quiet country lanes, and footpaths through agricultural fields. While there are some ascents to viewpoints like Madge Hill, there are no difficult or mountainous climbs.
Are there any quiet, peaceful hikes in the area?
Yes, while the main reservoir path can be popular, you can find tranquility by exploring the network of footpaths through the surrounding fields and woodlands. Trails heading away from the water, through the valley of the Henmore Brook or towards Hognaston Woods, tend to be much quieter.
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