The best walks and hikes around Angram Reservoir

The terrain around Angram Reservoir is diverse, featuring two large reservoirs, boulder-strewn hillsides, rough grassland, and moorland on higher slopes. You'll also find some mixed woodland below the Scar House dam. While flat footpaths are available near the reservoirs, paths ascending the hillsides can be steep and uneven. The track leading directly to Angram Reservoir is made of crushed stone, offering more accessible sections.

Yes, there are options suitable for families and those looking for easier walks. The area offers accessible pathways, particularly the crushed stone track leading to Angram Reservoir. An example of an easier route is the Scar House Reservoir and Dam – Scar House Reservoir Dam loop from Scar House Reservoir, which is 4.3 miles (7.0 km) long and generally takes less than two hours to complete.

Hikers can enjoy several notable features. The massive walled Scar House Dam is a significant attraction, where water often cascades down its tall walls. The region is part of Upper Nidderdale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with prominent peaks like Little Whernside (604 meters) and Great Whernside (704 meters) nearby. The River Nidd flows from Great Whernside directly into the reservoir. You might also spot various birds, including Ring Ouzel, Wheatear, and Whinchat on the hillsides, and Dippers and Grey Wagtails by the river.

Yes, circular walking routes are a major draw. A popular option is the Scar House & Angram Reservoirs loop, which is 6.5 miles (10.5 km) and allows you to admire both reservoirs and their dramatic spillway arches.

The area offers beauty year-round. During spring and summer, the hillsides above the reservoirs are frequented by birds such as Ring Ouzel, Wheatear, and Whinchat, making it an excellent time for wildlife viewing. The serene atmosphere and stunning views are present throughout the year, though weather conditions can vary, so checking forecasts is always recommended.

Yes, Angram Reservoir is recognized as a Dark Skies site. Its remote and beautiful setting offers exceptional opportunities for stargazing, making it a unique destination for evening visits.

The area holds historical interest related to the construction of the reservoirs. You can find the remains of the submerged settlement of Angram, from which the reservoir takes its name, and the village of Lodge, which was cleared during the reservoir's development. These add a unique historical dimension to the walks.

There are over 110 hiking trails available around Angram Reservoir, catering to various difficulty levels. This includes 21 easy routes, 67 moderate routes, and 24 difficult routes, ensuring options for different fitness levels and preferences.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 600 reviews. Hikers often praise the dramatic reservoir landscapes, the peaceful environment, and the diverse terrain that offers both accessible paths and challenging ascents.

Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a challenge, routes like the Scar House Reservoir and Bull Brae Shooting House loop from Scar House Reservoir Car Park — Nidderdale offer a difficult 13.4 miles (21.6 km) path. This route winds through moorland and provides expansive views of the Nidderdale landscape.

While the guide doesn't specify exact parking locations, it mentions routes starting from 'Scar House Reservoir Car Park', indicating that parking facilities are available in the vicinity of the reservoirs, which are interconnected.

The region is generally welcoming to outdoor enthusiasts. While specific dog-friendly policies for every trail are not detailed, many natural areas in the UK allow dogs, often requiring them to be on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. It's always advisable to check local signage for any specific restrictions.