Top 17 Lakes around Kirklees

The lakes in Kirklees offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and hiking on trails like the 'Around Scammonden Water' route, or more challenging options such as the 'Standedge Circuit Walk'. Mountain biking is also popular, with routes like 'Stainland to Scammonden Water loop'. Some lakes, like Kirklees Lagoon, also offer opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. For more detailed routes, explore our guides on Hiking around Kirklees and MTB Trails around Kirklees.

Many lakes in Kirklees are suitable for families and dog walkers. For instance, Butterley Reservoir and Spillway, Scammonden Reservoir, and Blakeley Reservoir are noted as family-friendly. Digley Reservoir is particularly popular for dog walking, offering varied trails through woods and fields. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially around wildlife and livestock.

The lakes in Kirklees, often former reservoirs, are set amidst varied terrain including valleys and moorlands, offering picturesque views. For example, Black Moss Reservoir provides fabulous views over to Pule Hill and West Nab, giving a remote feel. Wessenden Reservoir, part of a chain of four, offers superb views of the valley. Many locations feature open countryside, woodlands, and serene waters, perfect for nature observation.

The lakes in Kirklees can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and summer are ideal for longer walks and water activities, with lush greenery and warmer temperatures. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter offers a stark, tranquil beauty, though trails can be muddy or icy. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.

Access to the lakes varies. Many popular spots like Ogden Water Country Park and Hollingworth Lake Country Park have dedicated parking facilities. For reservoirs like Digley Reservoir, Scammonden Reservoir, and Wessenden Reservoir, there are often nearby car parks or roadside parking options. Public transport links exist for some areas, but it's advisable to check specific routes and schedules for your chosen destination.

While some larger country parks like Hollingworth Lake Country Park have visitor centres and cafes, amenities directly at the smaller reservoirs can be limited. It's a good idea to bring your own refreshments, especially for longer walks. However, many lakes are close enough to towns and villages in Kirklees where you can find pubs, cafes, and accommodation options.

Trails around Kirklees reservoirs range from easy to intermediate. Many offer relatively flat paths suitable for leisurely strolls, while others, especially those connecting multiple reservoirs or venturing onto the moors, can involve moderate ascents and descents. For example, the path to Blakeley Reservoir from Marsden is well-maintained but includes steps. Always check route descriptions for specific difficulty ratings.

The duration of walks around the lakes varies greatly depending on the size of the lake and the chosen route. Shorter circular walks around individual reservoirs might take 1-2 hours, such as the 'Around Scammonden Water' route which is about 4.5 km. Longer routes that connect multiple lakes or extend into the surrounding moorland can take several hours. For example, the 'Standedge Circuit Walk' is a moderate 17 km hike.

Most lakes in Kirklees are reservoirs managed by water companies, and wild swimming is generally not permitted due to safety concerns (cold water, hidden currents, machinery) and water quality regulations. It's important to respect signage and local regulations regarding water access to ensure your safety and protect the environment.

Many of Kirklees' lakes are actually reservoirs with significant industrial history. For instance, Wessenden Reservoir, built in 1836, was constructed to supply water to local mills and protect against flooding. Scammonden Reservoir is unique as its dam carries the M62 motorway, a testament to mid-20th-century engineering where road and water companies collaborated.

While many lakes are popular, some offer a more secluded experience. Black Moss Reservoir, high up on the Marsden Moors, feels very remote and offers a sense of solitude. Other smaller bodies of water like Willow Hall Dam and Gratrix Dam, often managed by angling associations, might also offer tranquil spots away from the main crowds, primarily for fishing and quiet enjoyment.