Best lakes around Carlton Highdale are found within a region characterized by its dales and drained by the River Cover. Carlton Highdale, located in Coverdale, North Yorkshire, is part of the scenic Yorkshire Dales. While large lakes are not directly within its boundaries, the broader area features smaller water bodies and notable reservoirs. These offer natural beauty and recreational opportunities for visitors.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
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Great views east to Nidderdale. This does not appear to be a natural pond and is likely a peat‑cutting or grouse‑moor management pond - a small, shallow, man‑made water body created on the high moor for drainage control, habitat, or shooting‑estate logistics.
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This is a particularly nice spot, a sizeable oasis on top of the fell. I wish I could see it on a better day than I did. It would make for a great summer picnic spot.
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There is a small shelter on the West side of the Dam along the access wall which has seats inside ideal for a picnic out of the wind and rain! (Although the birds also agree)
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The reservoir was built to supply water to the Bradford area of West Yorkshire. It was built by Bradford Corporation between 1904 and 1919, under an Act of Parliament in 1890 which also authorised the corporation to construct three other reservoirs in upper Nidderdale.
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Scar House Reservoir is located in Nidderdale, North Yorkshire, England. The dam that forms Scar House Reservoir is an impressive structure. Here are some key points about Scar House Reservoir's dam: Construction: The construction of Scar House Reservoir began in 1921 and was completed in 1936. The purpose of the reservoir was to supply water to the Bradford area. Height and Type: The dam is an earth embankment dam, which means it is constructed using compacted earth. The height of Scar House Dam is approximately 72 meters (236 feet), making it one of the tallest dams in England. Reservoir Capacity: Scar House Reservoir has a capacity of around 40 billion liters (8.8 billion gallons) of water. The reservoir is part of a network of reservoirs in the area that collectively serve the purpose of water supply. Water Source: The reservoir collects water from the surrounding hills and moorlands, storing it for supply to the cities and towns downstream, particularly Bradford. Recreation: Apart from its primary function of water supply, Scar House Reservoir and its surrounding area also offer recreational opportunities. The reservoir is situated in a scenic landscape, making it a popular destination for walkers and nature enthusiasts. Management: The reservoir and dam are managed by Yorkshire Water, a company responsible for providing water and wastewater services in the Yorkshire region.
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There is a valve tower here on the dam on the Roundhill Reservoir (the larger Leighton Reservoir to the north-east). The dam was built by the town of Harrogate between 1903 and 1911. The water was pumped from here to Harlow Hill in Harrogate.
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Scar House Reservoir’s dam was the largest in Britain when it was finished in 1936. Measuring 1,800 feet (549 metres) long and 170 feet (52 metres) high, the reservoir was constructed to supply Bradford’s booming mills, along with Angram Reservoir, which is a short distance up the River Nidd. These days, you will find the dam and reservoir to be an impressive spectacle nestled amidst stunning scenery.
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While Carlton Highdale itself doesn't have large natural lakes, the broader area features impressive reservoirs. Key highlights include Scar House Reservoir Dam, a significant engineering marvel in Nidderdale, and Roundhill Reservoir Dam, known for its valve tower and historical purpose in supplying Harrogate. Another notable site is Angram Dam, which also supplied water to the Bradford area.
Yes, Scar House Reservoir Dam and Angram Dam are both considered family-friendly. Scar House Reservoir offers an impressive spectacle amidst stunning scenery, while Angram Dam features a small shelter on its west side, ideal for a picnic.
The region is characterized by its dales and moorlands. Around the reservoirs, you'll find impressive man-made structures set against natural backdrops. For example, Scar House Reservoir Dam is nestled amidst stunning scenery, offering a blend of engineering marvel and natural beauty. Roundhill Reservoir occupies a lonely and beautifully desolate spot on the moors.
The reservoirs in the area are significant for their engineering history. Scar House Reservoir Dam was the largest dam in Britain when completed in 1936, built to supply water to Bradford. Similarly, Roundhill Reservoir Dam was constructed between 1903 and 1911 to pump water to Harrogate, and Angram Dam was built by Bradford Corporation between 1904 and 1919 for water supply.
Yes, the area offers various hiking opportunities. You can find moderate to difficult trails, such as the 'Great Roova Crags and East Scrafton Moor loop' or the 'Coverdale Valley – Coverdale Road loop'. For more details and route options, explore the Hiking around Carlton Highdale guide.
Absolutely. There are several running trails available, including a moderate 7 km loop around Scar House Reservoir. Other options range from moderate to difficult. Check out the Running Trails around Carlton Highdale guide for more routes.
Yes, the region is suitable for gravel biking with several challenging routes. Examples include the 'Cam High Road – Fleet Moss Approach loop' and the 'Apedale Road – High Harker Hill Trail loop'. You can find more detailed routes and information in the Gravel biking around Carlton Highdale guide.
Visitors appreciate the impressive scale of the dams and the tranquil, scenic landscapes. The engineering marvels like Scar House Reservoir Dam are often highlighted, as are the opportunities for walks and enjoying the peaceful surroundings, such as at Pinker's Pond in Coverdale.
Yes, Pinker's Pond, located about a mile west of Middleham in Coverdale, offers a tranquil setting ideal for picnics and walks. It's a charming spot to observe ducks and enjoy the serene landscape.
At Angram Dam, there is a small shelter on its west side with seats, providing an ideal spot for a picnic away from the wind and rain.
The Yorkshire Dales offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer provide lush greenery and warmer weather for outdoor activities. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the landscape, while winter can offer stark, dramatic scenery, especially around the reservoirs, though conditions may be more challenging for some activities.
Yes, Roundhill Reservoir is itself considered a viewpoint, offering a unique perspective of the desolate moorland landscape. The impressive structures of the dams, such as Scar House Reservoir Dam, also provide excellent vantage points.


Still not found your perfect lake around Carlton Highdale? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.