4.6
(1677)
13,352
hikers
9
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Stonebeck Up offer access to a diverse landscape within the Nidderdale National Landscape. The area features expansive grouse moors, tranquil reservoirs like Angram and Scar House, and rolling farmland. Hikers can explore varied terrain, including limestone formations and gritstone rocks, alongside the River Wharfe and Stean Beck. The region is bounded by the summits of Great Whernside and Little Whernside, providing higher-altitude experiences.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.7
(20)
203
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(7)
46
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(4)
28
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Stonebeck Up
Wonderful cafe with great food. High above the gorge, it has glass floor panels where you can see the river beneath. Well worth a stop.
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The village is located in Upper Nidderdale, North Yorkshire. It is a quiet place that is surrounded by beautiful countryside.
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The village of Lodge on the edge of the valley had originally been established around a grange farm as part of the Cistercian Byland Abbey in medieval times. Occupied until the 1920's there are plaques against the ruined buildings and a small map on a display board showing you the locations of them. remains of the five buildings can still be seen and the ruined houses, with their stone flagged floors and old kitchen ranges they would have a bleak and simple lifestyle.
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There is a small shelter on the West side of the Dam along the access wall which has seats inside ideal for a picnic out of the wind and rain! (Although the birds also agree)
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The reservoir was built to supply water to the Bradford area of West Yorkshire. It was built by Bradford Corporation between 1904 and 1919, under an Act of Parliament in 1890 which also authorised the corporation to construct three other reservoirs in upper Nidderdale.
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Scar House Reservoir is located in Nidderdale, North Yorkshire, England. The dam that forms Scar House Reservoir is an impressive structure. Here are some key points about Scar House Reservoir's dam: Construction: The construction of Scar House Reservoir began in 1921 and was completed in 1936. The purpose of the reservoir was to supply water to the Bradford area. Height and Type: The dam is an earth embankment dam, which means it is constructed using compacted earth. The height of Scar House Dam is approximately 72 meters (236 feet), making it one of the tallest dams in England. Reservoir Capacity: Scar House Reservoir has a capacity of around 40 billion liters (8.8 billion gallons) of water. The reservoir is part of a network of reservoirs in the area that collectively serve the purpose of water supply. Water Source: The reservoir collects water from the surrounding hills and moorlands, storing it for supply to the cities and towns downstream, particularly Bradford. Recreation: Apart from its primary function of water supply, Scar House Reservoir and its surrounding area also offer recreational opportunities. The reservoir is situated in a scenic landscape, making it a popular destination for walkers and nature enthusiasts. Management: The reservoir and dam are managed by Yorkshire Water, a company responsible for providing water and wastewater services in the Yorkshire region.
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There are 9 dedicated hiking trails around Stonebeck Up that are easily accessible from bus stations, allowing you to explore the stunning Nidderdale National Landscape without a car.
Stonebeck Up, located in the highest part of Nidderdale, offers a diverse range of landscapes, from expansive grouse moors to tranquil reservoirs and unique limestone formations. Its inclusion in the Nidderdale National Landscape means you'll experience striking natural beauty and a well-established network of trails, all reachable by public transport.
Yes, there are 2 easy bus-accessible hikes perfect for beginners or families. A great option is the Scar House Reservoir and Dam β Scar House Reservoir Dam loop from Scar House Reservoir, which is just over 7 km long and offers gentle terrain around the reservoir.
For a moderate challenge, consider the Scar House Reservoir Dam β How Stean Gorge loop from Scar House Reservoir. This 15.7 km route offers varied terrain and takes you towards the impressive How Stean Gorge, a notable limestone ravine in the area. There are 4 moderate routes in total.
Yes, for experienced hikers, there are 3 difficult bus-accessible routes. One challenging option is the Scar House Reservoir Dam β Scar House Reservoir Dam loop from Scar House Reservoir, which spans over 18 km and features significant elevation changes, offering expansive views of the moorlands and reservoirs.
Absolutely! All the bus-accessible routes listed are circular, meaning you'll end your hike back where you started, conveniently close to a bus stop. For example, the How Stean Gorge β Scar House Reservoir Dam loop from Scar House Reservoir is a 12.3 km circular route.
The trails offer access to stunning natural features. You can explore the serene Angram and Scar House Reservoirs, or discover impressive limestone scenery. Some routes might even lead you to beautiful waterfalls like Linton Falls or Cauldron Falls, which are part of the wider Stonebeck Up area.
While the focus is on natural beauty, the wider Nidderdale area has historical significance. You might encounter sites like The Druid's Temple, a fascinating man-made monument, or the dramatic Kilnsey Crag, a natural landmark with a rich history, depending on your chosen route.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.58 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil beauty of the reservoirs, the vastness of the moorlands, and the sense of escape offered by these car-free adventures in the Nidderdale National Landscape.
While the Nidderdale National Landscape offers year-round beauty, winter conditions can be challenging, especially on higher moorland routes. Always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out. Lower elevation routes around the reservoirs might be more accessible, but proper gear for snow and ice is essential.
Many routes offer spectacular views of the surrounding dales and reservoirs. For instance, some trails provide glimpses of the dramatic Great Whernside Summit in the distance, offering expansive vistas of the Yorkshire Dales landscape.


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