Lakes near Kirkburton are primarily found in the surrounding Kirklees area and the nearby Peak District, as Kirkburton itself does not feature large natural lakes. The region offers several notable reservoirs and canals, providing diverse opportunities for outdoor activities. These water bodies are integrated into landscapes ranging from open moorland to peaceful woodlands, making them suitable for various recreational pursuits. The area's geography supports a network of walking paths and scenic routes around these water features.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
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I expect this was for charity but there a lots of them loose from Jurassic Park lol
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Langsett Reservoir boasts well-maintained paths suitable for various abilities, making it ideal for walking, cycling, or even a leisurely stroll. The surrounding woodland and moorland offer diverse landscapes, changing beautifully with the seasons. The dam wall itself is an impressive feat of engineering, and walking across it provides great views of the reservoir and surrounding countryside.
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A great walk. Free parking. Cafe across road and down hill a bit from car park
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Beautiful woodland, popular with dog walkers and cyclists.
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The embankment of Langsett Reservoir is 352m/1, 156ft long and has a depth of 35m/117ft, to the old river bed beneath. When full, the reservoir holds 59 million m3 or 1,409 million gallons of water. The castellated valvehouse at the northern end of the dam wall is supposed to have been modelled on the gatehouse of Lancaster Castle. The reservoir took 14 years to build, between 1889 and 1904. The reservoir is now controlled by Yorkshire Water, and its naturally acidic, brown water is treated at the modern Langsett Treatment Works just below the embankment wall to the right.
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Bilberry Reservoir, nestled in the Peak District, offers tranquil beauty with its clear waters and surrounding moorland.
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A view of Bilberry Reservoir. In 5 February 1852, Bilberry Reservoir burst its embankment and an estimated 86 million gallons of water poured down the Holme valley along the route of the River Holme, causing considerable destruction to buildings and bridges, as well as claiming the lives of around 80 people. There are markers in Holmfirth town centre showing the height of the flood waters which was considerable.
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While Kirkburton itself doesn't have large natural lakes, the surrounding Kirklees area and the nearby Peak District feature several notable reservoirs and canals. These include the dramatic Wessenden Valley Reservoirs, Blackmoorfoot Reservoir, and the historic Huddersfield Narrow and Broad Canals, offering diverse landscapes for outdoor activities.
Among the most popular is Langsett Reservoir, known for its moderate loop walk and stunning views, serving as a base for longer Peak District hikes. Another must-see is Newmillerdam Lake, a natural monument with an accessible path. Pugneys Country Park Lake, a 250-acre park developed from a former mine, also offers a scenic lake and is a Local Nature Reserve.
Yes, several locations are great for families. Newmillerdam Lake has a well-surfaced path suitable for pushchairs and children's bikes. Pugneys Country Park Lake is also very family-friendly with an on-site cafe. Additionally, the circular walk around Langsett Reservoir is about 3 miles (5 km) and suitable for families.
Yes, Newmillerdam Lake features a well-surfaced path all around it, making it suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. It also has disabled parking spots and wide entrances to the paths.
The area offers a variety of activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like those found in the Wessenden Valley, which is part of the Pennine Way. The Huddersfield Broad Canal is popular for walking, cycling, and angling. For more structured routes, explore options like easy hikes around Kirkburton or road cycling routes. You can find more details on these activities in the easy hikes around Kirkburton guide or the road cycling routes around Kirkburton guide.
Yes, the towpaths of the Huddersfield Broad Canal are excellent for cycling, offering a mix of rural and industrial scenery. While some reservoir paths are suitable for cycling, specific routes like the Road Cycling Routes around Kirkburton guide offer dedicated cycling options in the wider area.
The Wessenden Valley Reservoirs are known for their dramatic moorland landscapes and potential wildlife sightings such as curlews, red grouse, twite, and golden plover. Langsett Reservoir offers peaceful woodlands and open moorland, ideal for wildlife photography. You can also find mixed woods (coniferous and deciduous) around Langsett Woods.
The Huddersfield Narrow Canal is famous for the Standedge Tunnel, which is the country's longest and highest canal tunnel, showcasing significant engineering history. Bilberry Reservoir has a poignant history, as it burst its embankment in 1852, causing a devastating flood in the Holme valley.
Many popular spots offer parking. Langsett Reservoir has a free car park, though it can get busy on weekends. Newmillerdam Lake also provides disabled parking spots. For the Wessenden Valley Reservoirs, parking is available at Wessenden Head.
Yes, several locations offer amenities. Near Langsett Reservoir, you'll find a nice cafe and a pub close to the parking area. Pugneys Country Park Lake also has an on-site cafe.
The Wessenden Valley Reservoirs, including Wessenden Head, Wessenden, Blakeley, and Butterley, are located in the dramatic landscape of Marsden Moor. They offer a walk of contrasts, from wooded lanes to vast open moorland, with views of the Wessenden Waterfall. The area is part of the Pennine Way, providing challenging hikes and opportunities to spot various bird species.
Yes, the Wessenden Valley offers a route encompassing its four reservoirs. Additionally, Blackmoorfoot Reservoir is part of a longer walk that often includes other reservoirs in the area, providing extended walking opportunities.
For the Wessenden Valley reservoirs, you can find detailed information and maps for walks, such as the 'Five Reservoir Walk' provided by Kirklees Council, which can be accessed via this PDF guide.


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