Top 5 Lakes around Rossendale

Rossendale's lakes and reservoirs offer diverse outdoor experiences. For cycling and scenic views, Cragg Quarry Tramway on the Pennine Bridleway is highly rated. Clowbridge Reservoir is popular for birding, fishing, and hiking, with a 9.5-km circular trail. For elevated views and historical context, explore the Calf Hey Reservoir Loop, which also offers perspectives of Ogden Reservoir.

Yes, many of the reservoirs offer family-friendly walking opportunities. While specific family-friendly highlights are limited, the general appeal of the area's footpaths, such as those around Cowpe Reservoir, provides gentle routes suitable for families. The circular trail at Clowbridge Reservoir is also generally accessible, though dogs are not allowed on its immediate pathway.

The region is rich in industrial heritage, with many lakes being former quarries or reservoirs built in the 19th century. Jamestone Quarry is a significant reminder of Haslingden Grane's past. The Cragg Quarry Tramway on the Pennine Bridleway also highlights the area's quarrying history, offering a good quality track for exploration.

Absolutely! The Rossendale area is excellent for cycling. The Cragg Quarry Tramway on the Pennine Bridleway is a good quality cycle way with wonderful views. For more extensive routes, you can explore options like the 'Gravel biking around Rossendale' guide or the 'MTB Trails around Rossendale' guide, which feature trails near reservoirs and quarries. You can find more details on these routes at komoot.com/guide/3467723/gravel-biking-around-rossendale and komoot.com/guide/670739/mtb-trails-around-rossendale.

While some quarries, like Jamestone Quarry, might attract swimmers in summer, it is strictly out of bounds and dangerous to swim there due to industrial hazards. However, the nearby Greenfield Waterfalls in the Greenfield Valley (associated with Greenfield Reservoir) offer opportunities for wild swimming and scrambling, though caution is always advised.

Cowpe Reservoir is a tranquil spot well-regarded for both fishing and birdwatching. Similarly, Clowbridge Reservoir is a popular destination for birding and fishing, with an angling association and diverse wildlife.

The reservoirs offer expansive and picturesque views. From the elevated footpaths around Calf Hey Reservoir Loop, you can enjoy perspectives of both Calf Hey and Ogden Reservoirs. The Cragg Quarry Tramway also provides wonderful views of the surrounding countryside and moorland landscape. The Greenfield Valley, though slightly outside Rossendale, is known for its incredibly scenic area with rocky outcrops and expansive vistas.

While many footpaths in the Rossendale area are dog-friendly, it's important to note specific restrictions. For instance, dogs are generally not allowed on the immediate pathway around Clowbridge Reservoir. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding dogs, especially around nature reserves or livestock areas.

The lakes and reservoirs around Rossendale are beautiful to visit year-round. Trails like the one at Clowbridge Reservoir are open all year. Each season offers a different charm, from lush greenery in spring and summer to crisp, clear views in autumn and winter. Always check weather conditions before your visit, especially for higher moorland paths.

Yes, Clowbridge Reservoir is home to a sailing club, offering opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Further afield, Dovestone Reservoir, part of the Greenfield Valley reservoirs often associated with the broader Rossendale area, also hosts a sailing club.

While specific cafes directly adjacent to every lake are not always available, the towns and villages surrounding the reservoirs in Rossendale offer various options. For example, the village of Cowpe is near Cowpe Reservoir, and the broader Rossendale area has local establishments. Note that the cafe at Buckhurst Lodgeside is permanently closed.

The hiking terrain varies from moderate to challenging. Many trails, like the 9.5-km circular route at Clowbridge Reservoir, are considered moderately challenging. The Calf Hey Reservoir Loop features elevated footpaths, offering more challenging sections with rewarding views. Footpaths leading to the moors, such as those near Cowpe Reservoir, can also present varied terrain.