Top 20 Lakes around Hope Woodlands
Best lakes around Hope Woodlands, nestled within the Peak District National Park, are primarily large reservoirs, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This area is known for its interconnected water bodies, including the Upper Derwent Valley reservoirs. The landscape features woodlands, moorland, and rolling hills, providing diverse terrain for exploration. Visitors can find various recreational opportunities centered around these water features.
Best lakes around Hope Woodlands
- The most popular lakes is Derwent Dam, a man-made monument set amidst moorland, forests, and hills. This impressive dam was used by pilots to practice for the ‘Dam Busters’ raids during WWII.
- Another must-see spot is View of Ladybower Reservoir from Bamford Edge, a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas. From this elevated position, visitors can gaze toward Ladybower Dam and the surrounding countryside.
- Visitors also love Ladybower Reservoir Overflow, an other man-made feature known for its distinctive "plugholes." These structures efficiently drain excess water and are a notable sight during periods of high water levels.
- Hope Woodlands is known for its large reservoirs and smaller natural ponds. These include significant water supply reservoirs and tranquil ponds within ancient woodlands.
- The lakes around Hope Woodlands are appreciated by the komoot community, with nearly 1000 upvotes and close to 300 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Ladybower Reservoir Overflow
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Ladybower was constructed between 1935-43 after the villages of Derwent and Ashopton were flooded (residents were rehomed nearby). It was officially opened by King George VI on September 24, 1945.
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Ladybower Reservoir Plug Holes
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Ladybower Reservoir
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Derwent Dam
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During the Second World War, the reservoir was used by pilots to practise for the ‘Dam Busters’ raids, due to its similarity to the lakes and dams of Germany.
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View of Ladybower Reservoir from Bamford Edge
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Tips from the Community
Check before you go as it’s not always overflowing. Lots of beautiful circular walks ranging from 3 miles to 22 miles.
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When the Derwent reservoir is full, the water flows out through the 'plugholes' at the southern end. A mesmerising spectacle when there's a lot of water flowing and can be enhanced by a great sunrise.
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Approach the base of the Derwent Dam from Fairholmes car park and walk across the open field to get up close and personal with the overflowing torrent of white water. It’s a spectacular sight and the noise is incredible. Feel the mist generated by the cascade on your face. Wonderful viewpoint for photographs!
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Rather than overflowing the Dam wall, as the Derwent Reservoir further up, there are two plugholes, one either shore of the reservoir next to the Dam. When these are (over) flowing water they are used to produce electricity. The water travels under the Dam and is funneled back into the Derwent River
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Beautiful view of the plug holes or shaft spillways running due to high levels in the reservoir.
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Ladybower is a large reservoir in the Upper Derwent Valley surrounded by rugged moorland, rolling farmland and majestic woodland. Above, beside and along the reservoir, breathtaking views await. The reservoir was built between 1935 and 1943. It was officially opened by King George VI in September 1945.
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Bamford Edge consists of a set of rocks protruding from a towering hilltop in the Peak District National Park. The views from here are incomparable, feel ontop of the world as you gaze toward Ladybower Dam and the rolling countryside that surrounds it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most scenic lakes to visit around Hope Woodlands?
The Upper Derwent Valley reservoirs—Ladybower, Derwent, and Howden—are highly scenic. For panoramic views of Ladybower, consider visiting Bamford Edge. Derwent Reservoir is known for its impressive dam, while Howden offers a more tranquil, forested setting. Langsett Reservoir also provides stunning vistas across water, woodlands, and moorland.
Are there any lakes with historical significance in the Hope Woodlands area?
Yes, both Ladybower and Derwent Reservoirs are famously linked to the 'Dam Busters' raids of World War II, having been used for practice runs. Ladybower also holds the poignant history of submerging the villages of Derwent and Ashopton during its construction, with ruins occasionally resurfacing during dry spells. Derwent Dam itself is an impressive structure built in 1902.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Hope Woodlands?
The area offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including challenging routes like 'The Peak District Nine Edges'. For hikers, there are waterfall hikes and routes like 'Kinder Low Trig Point'. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails such as the 'Ladybower and Derwent Reservoir loop' available. Many trails are suitable for walking and cycling around the reservoirs.
Are there family-friendly walking routes around the lakes?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly options. Langsett Reservoir has well-maintained paths suitable for various abilities, and Longshaw Pond is easily accessible and a serene spot for a picnic. The paths around Ladybower and Derwent Reservoirs are also popular for family walks, offering relatively flat terrain in many sections.
Where can I see the distinctive 'plugholes' at Ladybower Reservoir?
The distinctive 'plugholes,' officially known as bellmouth spillways, are located at Ladybower Reservoir Overflow. They are an impressive sight, especially during periods of high water levels when they efficiently drain excess water. The path along the top of Ladybower Dam provides a wonderful view of these structures.
Is there good birdwatching near the lakes?
Yes, Langsett Reservoir is a popular spot for birdwatchers, where you might spot species like treecreepers, owls, and woodpeckers. Longshaw Pond also attracts ducks and herons, making it another good location for observing local wildlife.
What facilities are available near Langsett Reservoir?
Langsett Reservoir is well-equipped for visitors. It provides a free car park with toilets, and there's a nice cafe and pub located close to the parking area, making it convenient for a day out.
Can I cycle around the lakes in Hope Woodlands?
Absolutely. The Upper Derwent Valley reservoirs (Ladybower, Derwent, and Howden) are very popular for cycling, with extensive loop trails. A 10.5-mile circular walk/cycle route encompasses Howden Reservoir, and the area around Ladybower and Derwent also offers numerous cycling paths. Langsett Reservoir also has well-maintained paths suitable for cycling.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Hope Woodlands?
The lakes are beautiful year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and summer are ideal for walking and cycling in pleasant weather. Autumn brings stunning foliage, particularly in the forested areas around Howden and Langsett. Winter can offer dramatic, often quieter, landscapes, especially when the reservoirs are full and the spillways are active.
Are there any viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the lakes?
Yes, Bamford Edge is a prominent viewpoint offering incomparable panoramic vistas over Ladybower Reservoir and the surrounding rolling countryside, including views towards Ladybower Dam. The paths around the reservoirs themselves also provide many scenic spots.
What makes Derwent Dam a notable landmark?
Derwent Dam is an iconic landmark due to its magnificent gothic-style towers and its historical significance as a training ground for the 'Dam Busters' during WWII. It's set amidst breathtaking scenery of moorland, forests, and rolling hills, and when water levels are high, it can overflow, creating a spectacular man-made waterfall.
Is there a quieter reservoir for a more secluded experience?
Howden Reservoir, the uppermost of the three Upper Derwent Valley reservoirs, generally offers a more tranquil and secluded atmosphere compared to its downstream counterparts. It's nestled in forested hills and features a historic brick dam, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter experience.
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