4.5
(2769)
24,282
hikers
601
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Blubberhouses are characterized by diverse landscapes, including reservoirs, river valleys, and open moorland. The area is situated within the Nidderdale National Landscape, offering a variety of scenic routes. Hikers can explore paths along the River Washburn and around Fewston and Thruscross Reservoirs. The terrain includes well-maintained paths, woodland trails, and sections of open moorland.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.6
(24)
208
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(63)
960
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(48)
898
hikers
5.30km
01:24
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(6)
34
hikers
5.85km
01:33
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
26
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Some stunning views here overlooking the morrs and down to Denton
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Undoubtedly the most scenic of the Washburn reservoirs with the moorland backdrop to the north. The circular route around the reservoir from the car park is about 5 miles, the track on the southwestern side runs along the edge of plantations and offers some shade from the sun and shelter from the elements. The track on the northeastern side is more exposed, and if you do the whole circuit you will cross over Far Comb Hill and the plantation along the edge of the reservoir at Whit Moor - a great route.
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Fabulous scenic spot for a break, however, there are only 3 or 4 tables that I could see, so being next to Fewston car park I imagine they would fill up quickly (my photos take at around 7am). There are also numerous benches along the track around the eastern side of the reservoir.
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Valve house just north of Swinsty Cottage at the eastern edge of Swinsty Reservoir dam. Presumably still in operation and working effectively. Back in 2011 the valves at the adjacent Fewston Reservoir were found to be leaking and were repaired by Blackhall Valvologists https://blackhall.co.uk/fewston-reservoir-valve-repair-refurbishment.html
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Cracking location from which to explore. Reasonably well-sized car park (about 25 spaces) immediately accessible from the A59. Head south to walk around Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs along very easy and well-maintained tracks, or even better, head north up the River Washburn for a serene woodland walk along the babbling river's edge, to eventually pop out at the very imposing face of Thruscross Reservoir dam. If this car park is full, then try Swinsty Moor Plantation or Fewston village if heading south, or try the bigger car park at Thruscross Reservoir if heading north.
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Cracking location from which to explore. Reasonably well-sized car park at Blubberhouses. Head south to walk around Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs along very easy and well-maintained tracks, or even better, head north up the River Washburn for a serene woodland walk along the babbling river's edge, to eventually pop out at the very imposing face of Thruscross Reservoir dam.
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Delightful walk along the River Washburn between Thruscross Reservoir and Blubberhouses. Easy track to follow along the river's edge, in parts it is a wide gravel track with very easy going, although it does eventually become more of a rabbit-path, narrow in places and riddled with tree routes.
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Small bridge at the southern end of the dam allows you to peer over and see the overflow for Fewston Reservoir and the sloping masonry weirs that channel overflow down into Swinsty Reservoir. Great views of both reservoirs northwest to Fewston and southeast to Swinsty.
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Blubberhouses offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 260 routes specifically graded as easy. These trails explore the diverse landscapes of the Nidderdale National Landscape, including reservoir-side paths and woodland trails.
The easy hiking trails around Blubberhouses are unique due to their varied landscapes, encompassing serene reservoir paths around Fewston and Thruscross, tranquil woodland walks along the River Washburn, and glimpses of open moorland. The area's position within the Nidderdale National Landscape ensures scenic beauty and a rich natural environment.
While on easy hikes around Blubberhouses, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the reservoirs and the River Washburn. For those interested in exploring further, nearby natural monuments include Simon's Seat and the Cow and Calf Rocks, though these might require a short drive from the immediate Blubberhouses area.
The easy trails in Blubberhouses are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2,500 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful reservoir loops, and the beautiful woodland sections, making them ideal for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Yes, many of the easy trails around Blubberhouses are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. Popular options include the Thruscross Reservoir and Cloggers Lane loop and the Swinsty Reservoir – Fewston Reservoir Dam loop, both providing scenic circuits.
Absolutely. The easy hiking trails around Blubberhouses, particularly those around Fewston and Thruscross Reservoirs, are generally flat and well-maintained, making them ideal for families with children. The Farmhouse Ice Cream Van – Fewston Reservoir Dam loop is a shorter, pleasant option for a family outing.
Many of the easy hiking trails around Blubberhouses are dog-friendly, especially the reservoir paths and woodland routes. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly around livestock or nature reserves, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users.
There are several parking options available for easy walks in Blubberhouses. Many of the popular reservoir routes, such as the Thruscross Reservoir and Cloggers Lane loop, start from designated car parks. The village of Blubberhouses itself also offers parking for routes like the Blubberhouses Car Park – River Washburn loop.
While Blubberhouses is a rural area, some public transport options may connect to nearby towns. However, direct public transport links to the trailheads can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance or consider driving to access the starting points of the easy hikes.
The duration of an easy hike in Blubberhouses varies depending on the route length. For example, the Thruscross Reservoir and Cloggers Lane loop typically takes around 2 hours, while the shorter Swinsty Reservoir – Fewston Reservoir Dam loop can be completed in about 1 hour 24 minutes.
Yes, there are often pubs and cafes in the villages surrounding the reservoirs and along some of the popular routes, offering opportunities for refreshments or a pub lunch after your hike. It's a good idea to check opening times, especially in smaller villages.
Easy hikes in Blubberhouses typically feature well-maintained paths, gravel tracks, and some woodland trails. The terrain is generally gentle with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for most fitness levels. You can expect a mix of waterside strolls and shaded forest paths.


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