The best walks and hikes around Winterburn Reservoir

There are over 370 hiking routes around Winterburn Reservoir, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. This includes more than 130 easy trails, 170 moderate routes, and over 60 challenging hikes.

The trails around Winterburn Reservoir feature diverse terrain typical of the Yorkshire Dales. You'll find peaceful waterside paths, particularly on the western side of the reservoir, as well as rolling hills, open grassland, and moorland. Many routes offer continuous scenic changes.

Yes, there are many easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the Threshfield Moor Path loop from Hetton-cum-Bordley is an easy 5.6 km trail that takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, leading through pleasant Dales countryside. Another great option is The Angel at Hetton – Cows on Moor Lane loop from Rylstone, an easy 7.1 km route.

Many trails in the Yorkshire Dales, including those around Winterburn Reservoir, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or during ground-nesting bird seasons. Please respect local signage.

Winterburn Reservoir is rich in historical features from its construction. You can see a grand, rock-faced stone wave wall, a built-out valve tower with cast iron capstans, and a decorative circular portal on a low-level valve outlet tower. There's also a twin-arched stone bridge crossing a spillway and a distinctive square gauging house. Keep an eye out for 'Giants' Graves,' which are 12th-century pillow mounds for rabbit breeding, and the 17th-century yeoman's farmhouse, Friars Head.

Yes, circular walks are a popular way to explore the area. The most popular route is the Winterburn Reservoir – Winterburn Reservoir loop from Rylstone, a moderate 13.5 km trail that offers a comprehensive circuit around the reservoir, combining waterside paths with views of the surrounding Dales.

Winterburn Reservoir offers beautiful hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer provides longer daylight hours, and autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Even in winter, the landscape can be stunning, though some paths might be muddy or icy, so appropriate gear is essential.

For those seeking a challenge, the area offers more difficult options. A top favourite is the Janet's Foss – Malham Village loop from Flasby with Winterburn, a difficult 19.8 km path that passes notable features like Janet's Foss and Malham Village, offering varied terrain from waterside paths to moorland.

The trails in Winterburn Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 2,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the diverse scenery of the Dales, and the well-maintained paths that offer a peaceful escape from more crowded areas.

While specific parking details vary by trailhead, there are generally parking options available in the villages surrounding Winterburn Reservoir, such as Rylstone or Hetton-cum-Bordley, which serve as common starting points for many routes. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended parking spots.

Yes, some routes incorporate stops at local establishments. For example, the Stone Bridge – The Angel at Hetton loop from Rylstone is a moderate 7.3 km hike that passes by The Angel at Hetton, a well-known local pub, offering a convenient stop for refreshments.