Best lakes around Tintwistle are predominantly reservoirs, integral to the region's water supply and offering diverse outdoor activities. Situated on the edge of the Peak District, the area features a series of man-made water bodies known for their scenic beauty and historical significance. These reservoirs provide popular trails and routes for walking and cycling, set amidst rolling hills and open moorland. Visitors can explore various circular walks around Tintwistle reservoirs, experiencing both natural landscapes and engineering heritage.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
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Nice and easy walk around the reservoir. Great to stretch your legs. Plenty of options to make it harder or longer by climbing up the hills.
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Langsett Reservoir boasts well-maintained paths suitable for various abilities, making it ideal for walking, cycling, or even a leisurely stroll. The surrounding woodland and moorland offer diverse landscapes, changing beautifully with the seasons. The dam wall itself is an impressive feat of engineering, and walking across it provides great views of the reservoir and surrounding countryside.
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The 3rd of that beautiful chain of reservoir in the Wessenden Valley. The access from Marsden is quite easy as it follows part of the Kirklee Way and Peak District boundary walk but there are a fews steps to reach the chain of reservoir. Not a bad spot for your first water break on a hot Summer's day or warm tea break from the flask in Winter if you are hiking in the area. It stands at the 2.5 miles mark if you started from Marsden and is less busy than its cousins: Butterley Reservoirs and Blakeley Reservoir You will find benches and the views of the valley are superb.
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The embankment of Langsett Reservoir is 352m/1, 156ft long and has a depth of 35m/117ft, to the old river bed beneath. When full, the reservoir holds 59 million m3 or 1,409 million gallons of water. The castellated valvehouse at the northern end of the dam wall is supposed to have been modelled on the gatehouse of Lancaster Castle. The reservoir took 14 years to build, between 1889 and 1904. The reservoir is now controlled by Yorkshire Water, and its naturally acidic, brown water is treated at the modern Langsett Treatment Works just below the embankment wall to the right.
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Visitors frequently enjoy Dovestone Reservoir, known for its breathtaking scenery where the Greenfield and Chew Brooks valleys meet. Another highly regarded spot is Yeoman Hey Reservoir, offering panoramic views amidst rolling moorland. Wessenden Reservoir is also a popular choice, valued for its historical significance and tranquil setting.
Yes, many of the reservoirs offer family-friendly options. For example, Dovestone Reservoir and Langsett Reservoir are noted for their accessible paths. Bottoms Reservoir, part of the Longdendale Chain, has an easy circular footpath of about 1.5 miles, perfect for a family stroll. Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir is also a great family-friendly destination with diverse habitats and historical interest.
The reservoirs are set amidst the stunning landscapes of the Peak District. You'll find picturesque views, rolling hills, and open moorland. Many offer excellent viewpoints, such as Yeoman Hey Reservoir, which is surrounded by high gritstone escarpments. The area also features woodlands and diverse flora and fauna, making it appealing for nature enthusiasts.
The reservoirs, particularly those in the Longdendale Chain (including Bottoms, Valehouse, Rhodeswood, and Torside), are a testament to Victorian engineering. Constructed between 1848 and 1877, this chain was once the largest body of man-made water in the world, built to supply water to Greater Manchester. Wessenden Reservoir, built in 1836, also has historical ties to local mills and flood protection.
Yes, the Longdendale Trail, a shared cycling and walking path, runs past reservoirs like Bottoms, Valehouse, and Torside, offering opportunities for longer excursions. For more cycling routes, you can explore the Cycling around Tintwistle guide, which includes routes like the 'Woodhead Reservoir – Woodhead Station and Tunnels loop' and the 'Torside Reservoir – Torside Reservoir loop'.
Beyond walking, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find challenging mountain hikes, such as the 'Wilderness Gully – View of Chew Valley loop' or the 'Wain Stones (Kissing Stones) – Torside Clough loop', detailed in the Mountain Hikes around Tintwistle guide. Road cycling is also popular, with routes like the 'Snake Pass and Holme Moss loop' available in the Road Cycling Routes around Tintwistle guide.
The reservoirs offer beauty year-round. The surrounding landscapes provide picturesque views and recreational opportunities in all seasons. While specific seasonal tips aren't provided for all, the area is generally appealing for walks and exploration throughout the year, with varying scenery depending on the season.
Many of the trails around the reservoirs are suitable for dogs, making them a popular choice for dog walkers. It's always advisable to keep dogs under control, especially around wildlife and livestock, and to check for any specific local restrictions or signage.
Yes, Tintwistle village provides amenities, including the historic Bull's Head pub, which is conveniently located near Bottoms Reservoir. Langsett Reservoir also has a nice cafe and pub close to its parking area, though it can get busy on weekends.
The reservoirs are generally accessible, with Tintwistle village serving as a convenient starting point for some. Parking is available at several locations; for instance, Langsett Reservoir has a free car park, though it can fill up quickly on busy days. Public transport options to Tintwistle are also available, connecting visitors to the area.
Visitors particularly appreciate the combination of stunning scenic beauty, extensive walking and cycling opportunities, and the rich historical significance of the Longdendale Chain. The tranquility of the water, the panoramic views of the Peak District, and the chance to explore pioneering Victorian engineering are frequently highlighted.


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