Top 11 Lakes around Silsden
Best lakes around Silsden are primarily associated with Silsden Reservoir, located just north of the town in West Yorkshire. This area is characterized by its Pennine landscape, offering various walking routes and views of the surrounding countryside. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal also runs through Silsden, providing additional waterside access. The region features a mix of reservoirs and tarns, catering to different outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Silsden
- The most popular lakes is The Tarn, Ilkley Moor, a viewpoint that is a scenic lake located on Ilkley Moor. It has been a destination for its natural beauty since the Victorian era.
- Another must-see spot is Embsay Reservoir, a lake that supplies water to the Skipton town area. This reservoir is surrounded by hills and offers tracks and paths for easy walks.
- Visitors also love Coppice Pond, St Ives Estate, a historical site located within a country park. This area features woodland and heath, with evidence of ancient settlements.
- Silsden is known for its reservoirs, tarns, and ponds. These water bodies offer a variety of settings for walking and exploring the natural landscape.
- The lakes around Silsden are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 40 upvotes and over 30 photos contributed by users.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Embsay Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Coppice Pond, St Ives Estate
Highlight • Historical Site
The whole estate is a Grade II listed park. The 17th century Harden Grange, the 19th century St Ives Mansion (now a care home), and several other individual buildings are also listed grade II
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
The Tarn, Ilkley Moor
Highlight • Viewpoint
Since the Victorian era, the tarn has remained a beloved destination for its natural beauty. During the winter months the Victorians would even ice skate on the frozen water.
Tip by
Ponden Reservoir
Highlight • Structure
There are also lovely views of the reservoir and valley if descending down Scar Top Road from Wycoller. If you are traveling in the opposite direction and are climbing, be sure to take a look over your shoulder.
Tip by
Upper Barden Reservoir
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Silsden.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Run round the reservoir on decent tracks or better still head up onto the moor behind to Crookrise or Embsay Crag - both great routes with amazing views
0
0
This reservoir, which supplies water to the Skipton town area, has quite a lot of character because of the proud hills surrounding it. It is a great place for an easy jog around it on tracks and paths here, but also a good place to start if you're heading further into the hills.
1
0
This reservoir, one of the two Barden reservoirs in the area, was opened in 1882, and supplies water to Bradford. A classic British moorland reservoir, it's easy to walk around and enjoy the views. On its east side, there is a dam with a wide flat track, but all the paths and footways around the reservoir will be easy to for most walkers. Enjoy!
1
0
This reservoir, which supplies water to the Skipton town area, has quite a lot of character because of the proud hills surrounding it. It is a great place for an easy walk around it on tracks and paths here, but also a good place to start if you're heading further into the hills (Embsay Crag is not too far from here). In the summer months, you will likely see sailing boats on the reservoir; a sailing club operates from here.
1
0
The Tarn is a scenic lake located on Ilkley Moor in West Yorkshire. It's a great place for a stroll or picnic, or to just simply unwind in nature. Since the Victorian era, the tarn has remained a beloved destination for its natural beauty. During the winter months the Victorians would even ice skate on the frozen water.
3
0
Located on the western side of the Aire Valley above Bingley in West Yorkshire, St Ives Estate is a country park of 217ha. Much of the estate is woodland and heath, and in these areas are various places with evidence of ancient settlements in the Stone, Bronze and Iron Age, Roman and medieval periods. These include the “Fairfax entrenchment”, an ancient ditch named after a Civil War general but actually much older. From the 12th to the 16th centuries the land belonged to Rievaulx and Drax abbeys and was known as Harden Grange The whole estate is a Grade II listed park. The 17th century Harden Grange, the 19th century St Ives Mansion (now a care home), and several other individual buildings are also listed grade II
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Silsden are particularly good for families?
Several lakes in the area are great for family outings. Embsay Reservoir offers easy walks on tracks and paths. Coppice Pond, St Ives Estate is located within a country park with woodlands and historical sites. The Tarn, Ilkley Moor is a scenic spot perfect for a stroll or picnic. Additionally, Ponden Reservoir and Upper Barden Reservoir also feature family-friendly paths.
Are there historical sites or features near the lakes in Silsden?
Yes, the area has historical significance. Silsden Reservoir itself, built in the late 1850s, features a Pennine dam that was considered cutting-edge Victorian engineering. Coppice Pond, St Ives Estate is a historical site within a country park, with evidence of ancient settlements from the Stone, Bronze, Iron Age, Roman, and medieval periods.
What kind of walking trails can I find around Silsden's lakes and water features?
You'll find a variety of walking trails. Silsden Reservoir offers circular routes through the surrounding countryside. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal, which runs through Silsden, provides flat waterside paths ideal for walking and cycling. For more challenging options, you can head further into the hills from places like Embsay Reservoir towards Embsay Crag. Many reservoirs, like Upper Barden Reservoir, have easy-to-walk paths around their perimeters.
What outdoor activities are available near the lakes in Silsden?
Beyond walking, the area offers various outdoor activities. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal is popular for waterside cycling, canoeing, and kayaking. Ponden Reservoir is used for sailing and canoeing by the Ponden Water Sport Club. You can also find numerous mountain biking and running trails nearby. For specific routes, explore the MTB Trails around Silsden or Running Trails around Silsden guides.
Is fishing permitted in any of the lakes around Silsden?
Yes, fishing has historical ties to Silsden Reservoir, with rights belonging to the Bradford Waltonians Angling Club. It's advisable to check with local angling clubs or authorities for current regulations and permits for specific locations.
What are the best lakes for scenic views in the Silsden area?
Silsden Reservoir offers attractive views along its walking routes and from elevated positions. The Tarn, Ilkley Moor is renowned for its natural beauty and scenic vistas. Embsay Reservoir is surrounded by proud hills, offering characterful views, and Ponden Reservoir provides good views right next to the road and from descending Scar Top Road.
Are there any lakes near Silsden known for wildlife spotting?
While not explicitly detailed as primary wildlife havens, reservoirs like Silsden Reservoir often attract various bird species and provide habitats for local fauna. Redcar Tarn (Keighley Tarn), though slightly further afield, is managed as a haven for wildlife, including gulls, wading birds, and wildfowl.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Silsden?
The lakes around Silsden can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking and outdoor activities, with sailing often seen on Embsay Reservoir. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, and in winter, after a hard frost, Redcar Tarn is occasionally known for ice skating, though caution is always advised.
Are there accessible paths for wheelchairs or strollers near Silsden's lakes?
While specific wheelchair-accessible paths are not universally detailed for all lakes, the Leeds and Liverpool Canal offers relatively flat towpaths suitable for strollers and some wheelchairs. Many reservoir paths, such as the wide, flat track on the dam at Upper Barden Reservoir, are generally easy for most walkers, but it's best to check specific route conditions for full accessibility.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes around Silsden?
Many of the walking areas around Silsden's lakes and the Leeds and Liverpool Canal are dog-friendly. However, it's important to keep dogs under control, especially around livestock or wildlife, and to follow any local signage regarding leads or restricted areas. Always remember to clean up after your pet.
Where can I find parking for visiting the lakes near Silsden?
Parking is generally available near popular access points for the lakes and reservoirs. For Silsden Reservoir, there are often local parking options. For other highlights like Coppice Pond, St Ives Estate, dedicated country park parking facilities are usually provided. It's recommended to check specific locations for the most convenient parking arrangements.
Most popular routes around Silsden
Most popular attractions around Silsden
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Silsden? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
