The best walks and hikes around Fernilee Reservoir

There are over 980 hiking routes available around Fernilee Reservoir, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. This includes a wide selection of easy, moderate, and more challenging trails.

Hiking around Fernilee Reservoir offers a distinctive blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. You'll find picturesque waterside views, dense woodlands with ancient trees and ferns, and the tranquil atmosphere of the Goyt Valley. During dry periods, you might even catch a glimpse of the submerged village of Goyt's Bridge, adding a unique historical dimension to your walk.

The trails around Fernilee Reservoir are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 4,600 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the area for its beautiful scenery, varied terrain, and the peaceful experience it offers.

Yes, Fernilee Reservoir offers many easy and family-friendly options. For instance, the Fernilee Reservoir Tower – Fernilee Reservoir loop is a gentle 4.2 km route. Many paths are well-defined, though some sections may have moderately steep slopes or rougher ground with rocks and tree roots, so sturdy footwear is always recommended.

The terrain around Fernilee Reservoir is varied. You'll encounter well-defined paths, especially along the reservoir's edge, but also sections with moderately steep slopes, steps, and rougher ground featuring rocks and tree roots, particularly in woodland areas. The combination of waterside paths and woodland trails provides a diverse walking experience.

Yes, many popular routes around Fernilee Reservoir are circular. A great option is the Errwood Reservoir – Fernilee Reservoir loop from The Street Car Park, which is a moderate 11.2 km route connecting both reservoirs. Another shorter, easy circular walk is the Fernilee Reservoir Tower – Fernilee Reservoir loop.

Absolutely. Many longer and more challenging routes connect Fernilee Reservoir with the nearby Errwood Reservoir, which is located upstream in the Goyt Valley. This allows for extended hikes through stunning scenery, such as the Errwood Reservoir – Fernilee Reservoir loop from The Street Car Park.

Yes, the trails around Fernilee Reservoir are popular with local dog walkers. It's a great place to enjoy a walk with your canine companion, but please ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near wildlife and other visitors, and always clean up after them.

Beyond the reservoir itself, you can find historical echoes in the area. During periods of extreme dryness, the outlines of the submerged village of Goyt's Bridge, which was flooded during the reservoir's construction, can become visible. Additionally, the historic Street Roman road runs nearby, adding a layer of ancient history to some routes.

Parking is available at various points around the Goyt Valley. A common starting point for many routes is The Street Car Park, which provides access to trails around both Fernilee and Errwood Reservoirs.

Fernilee Reservoir is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer exceptional scenery. In spring, you can see swathes of bluebells, while autumn brings vibrant foliage. The combination of water and woodland is particularly stunning during these seasons. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

While there are no facilities directly at Fernilee Reservoir, the wider Goyt Valley and nearby towns offer options for refreshments. You can find pubs and cafes in surrounding areas to enjoy a meal or drink after your hike.