The best walks and hikes around Gouthwaite Reservoir

There are over 160 hiking routes to explore in the Gouthwaite Reservoir area. These range from easy, family-friendly strolls along the water to more challenging climbs into the surrounding hills of the Nidderdale National Landscape.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails. However, Gouthwaite Reservoir is a designated nature reserve with sensitive wildlife and livestock in adjacent fields. Always keep your dog on a lead, especially during bird nesting season (spring and early summer), and be sure to clean up after them.

There is a car park available at the southern end of the reservoir, near the dam, which is a popular starting point for many walks. Additional parking can be found in nearby villages like Ramsgill and Lofthouse, but these can be limited. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends.

Yes, the area offers gentle walks perfect for families. The paths along the reservoir's shoreline are largely flat and provide great opportunities for spotting birds and enjoying the scenery. A good option is to walk a section of the Nidderdale Way along the eastern bank.

The terrain varies. While some paths along the reservoir are well-maintained, many routes cross pastoral fields and can become muddy, particularly after rain. You should also expect to encounter stiles and gates on most circular walks that venture away from the main reservoir path. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended.

The nearby market town of Pateley Bridge has a good selection of pubs, cafes, and bakeries. For something right near the trails in the upper dale, How Stean Gorge is a popular attraction that also has facilities for visitors.

Absolutely. The reservoir is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a haven for birdwatchers. You can expect to see a wide variety of waterfowl, and the surrounding area is home to birds of prey like red kites and buzzards. There is a dedicated viewing platform to help you get the best sightings.

Yes, the Nidderdale Way, a long-distance footpath, runs directly along the eastern side of Gouthwaite Reservoir. You can easily join the trail for a short waterside walk or incorporate a longer section into a more extensive hike through the National Landscape.

For a more strenuous hike with rewarding views, consider the Carlesmoor Beck and Combs Crags loop from Ramsgill. This long-distance route takes you up onto the moors above the reservoir, offering a significant climb and panoramic vistas across Nidderdale.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning waterside scenery, the abundant wildlife, and the peaceful atmosphere of the trails.

While the area offers gentle walks, many trails include stiles, uneven surfaces, and muddy sections that make them unsuitable for most wheelchairs and pushchairs. The most accessible option is the path from the main car park along the dam wall, which is relatively flat and surfaced.

Gouthwaite is known for its rich birdlife and softer, pastoral landscapes with trails that are generally less remote. Scar House Reservoir, further up the dale, offers a more rugged and wild landscape with dramatic moorland scenery. The choice depends on whether you prefer a wildlife-focused walk in a gentler setting or a more challenging hike in a wilder environment.