The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Lindley Wood Reservoir
4.5
(1789)
16,077
hikers
127
hikes
Popular dog friendly hiking trails around Lindley Wood Reservoir are characterized by ancient woodlands, tranquil reservoir shores, and paths following the River Washburn. The area features varied terrain, including forest tracks and open countryside, with moderate inclines offering views across the Washburn Valley. This landscape provides a mix of natural features and historical points of interest, such as the Grade II listed Dob Park Bridge and the ruins of Dob Park Lodge. The reservoir itself is the oldest of four in the Washburn Valley, contributing to the area's distinct character.
Best dog friendly hiking trails around Lindley Wood Reservoir
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Chevin Forest Park – Otley Town Centre loop from Otley, a 6.3 miles (10.1 km) trail that takes 3 hours to complete. This moderate route offers varied forest scenery and town views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Fewston Reservoir Dam – View of Fewston Reservoir loop from Norwood, a moderate 10.9 miles (17.5 km) path. This trail provides extensive views of Fewston Reservoir and its surroundings.
- Local hikers also love the Fewston Reservoir Dam – Swinsty Reservoir loop from Little Timble, a 3.4 miles (5.4 km) trail leading through reservoir shores and woodlands, often completed in about 1 hour 25 minutes.
- Hiking around Lindley Wood Reservoir is defined by ancient woodlands, tranquil reservoir shores, and river paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging moderate routes.
- The routes in Lindley Wood Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1600 reviews. More than 15000 hikers have used komoot to explore Lindley Wood Reservoir's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.8
(18)
153
hikers
9.95km
02:58
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
14
hikers
17.5km
04:50
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(45)
858
hikers
5.41km
01:26
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
38
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.0
(2)
42
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Lovely spot with a bench for having lunch and admiring the packhorse bridge over a gently flowing river.
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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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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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Good quality paths all the way around Thruscross, Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs, with parking at Swinsty Moor Plantation, Fewston village, Blubberhouses, and Thruscross Reservoir dam. If you do all 3 reservoirs then that clocks in at a 15-mile route, but is well worth it. The paths around the southern reservoirs are generally wide and flat. There are benches at periodic intervals on the eastern side of Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs, where you can take a break and admire the views.
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Easy to access and walk along the water's edge, levels quite low in spring of 2025 (see photos).
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Quite a few opportunities all around the reservoirs to head toward the water's edge, so you are unlikely to get completely stuck if you go off-piste. In early 2025 the water level is quite low.
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The track along this part of the reservoir is very good quality and clearly well-trodden: wide and flat, and provides welcome shade when the sun is scorching.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available around Lindley Wood Reservoir?
There are over 125 dog-friendly hiking trails around Lindley Wood Reservoir. This includes a good mix of routes, with 59 easy and 59 moderate options, ensuring there's something suitable for most dogs and their owners.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes near Lindley Wood Reservoir?
The trails offer a diverse landscape, perfect for dogs. You'll find paths winding through ancient woodlands, along the tranquil shores of Lindley Wood Reservoir, and beside the River Washburn. Expect a mix of forest tracks, open countryside, and riverside sections, with moderate inclines providing scenic views across the Washburn Valley.
Are there any easy, circular dog walks around Lindley Wood Reservoir?
Yes, there are several easy, circular routes ideal for a relaxed walk with your dog. For example, the Fewston Reservoir – Fewston Reservoir Dam loop from Little Timble is an easy 3.7 km option. Another great choice is the Fewston Reservoir Dam – Swinsty Reservoir loop from Little Timble, which is 5.4 km and also rated easy.
What historical landmarks can I see while hiking with my dog in the area?
The area is rich in history. You can discover the Grade II listed, 17th-century Dob Park Bridge, an ancient packhorse bridge. Nearby, you'll also find the ruins of Dob Park Lodge, adding an interesting historical element to your walk. Lindley Wood Reservoir itself is the oldest of four reservoirs in the Washburn Valley, built between 1869 and 1876.
When is the best time of year to visit Lindley Wood Reservoir for dog-friendly walks?
Spring is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the ancient woodlands, including Lindley Wood, become packed with bluebells, creating a stunning 'sea of colour'. The lush countryside is also typical of late spring, offering vibrant scenery. However, the tranquil reservoir shores and river paths provide pleasant walks year-round.
Are there any longer, more challenging dog-friendly routes for experienced hikers?
For those seeking a longer adventure, the Fewston Reservoir Dam – View of Fewston Reservoir loop from Norwood offers a moderate 17.5 km hike. Another moderate option is the Chevin Forest Park – Otley Town Centre loop from Otley, covering about 10 km with significant elevation changes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about dog-friendly trails around Lindley Wood Reservoir?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.48 out of 5 stars from over 1600 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the diverse scenery ranging from woodlands to waterside paths, and the overall peaceful escape it offers compared to busier local reservoirs.
Can I find routes with good viewpoints for dog walkers?
Yes, many trails offer excellent viewpoints. The varied terrain includes moderate inclines that provide expansive views across the scenic Washburn Valley. You might even catch distant sights like Almscliff Crag. The View of Otley from Chevin Bank – Great Dib Wood — Site of Special Scientific Interest loop from Otley is a moderate 8.9 km route that specifically highlights a view of Otley from Chevin Bank.
Is there wildlife to spot on dog walks around Lindley Wood Reservoir?
The pleasant woods and water around Lindley Wood Reservoir offer opportunities to spot various rare species of birds. It's a good spot for nature observation, so keep an eye out while enjoying your walk with your dog.
Are the dog-friendly trails suitable for families with children?
Many of the easy and moderate routes are suitable for families. The diverse landscapes, historical attractions like Dob Park Bridge, and opportunities for wildlife spotting can make for an engaging outing for children. Always check the route's distance and difficulty to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
Most popular routes around Lindley Wood Reservoir
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