4.6
(4767)
30,679
hikers
258
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Carsington Water are characterized by scenic reservoir views, gentle rolling hills, and native woodlands. The area features open fields enclosed by traditional dry stone walls, wildflower meadows, ponds, and reedbeds. Many paths offer minimal elevation changes, making them accessible for various fitness levels. The landscape provides a diverse environment for outdoor activities.
Last updated: July 13, 2026
5.0
(2)
17
hikers
3.52km
00:55
20m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
19
hikers
12.7km
03:39
310m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
5.0
(6)
6
hikers
14.8km
04:06
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
80
hikers
11.2km
02:54
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
5.25km
01:31
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
This place is well worth a visit with plenty of signs explaining the history of the quarry
0
0
Great spot especially when the engine is running.
0
0
Small visitor centre with parking, toilets and tea/coffee.
0
0
Lovely seating outside the pub. Arrived to the pub too early, but the delightfull staff had no problem allowing us to sit on their benches and enjoy our packed snacks.
0
0
Planning for the reservoir started in the 1960s and construction started in 1979. In 1984, there was a partial collapse of the dam before it was filled. The dam was removed before the construction of a new dam began in 1989. The finished reservoir was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1992.
0
0
A warm sanctuary on a cold day... Sit behind the glass, watching the water. 🌊
0
0
There are over 250 hiking routes accessible from bus stations in the Carsington Water area. This includes a wide variety of trails suitable for different preferences and fitness levels.
The trails around Carsington Water offer a good mix of difficulties. You'll find over 120 easy routes, more than 120 moderate options, and a few challenging hikes. The landscape features scenic reservoir views, gentle rolling hills, and native woodlands, with many paths having minimal significant elevation changes.
Yes, there are many easy options. For a relatively short and gentle walk, consider the View of Carsington Water – Carsington Water loop from Carsington CP. This route is just over 3 km and offers pleasant views of the reservoir. The area also features pram-friendly paths around the reservoir, making it ideal for families.
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Carsington Water, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 4,300 ratings. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, well-maintained paths, and the stunning reservoir views. The blend of natural beauty and accessible routes makes it a popular choice.
Yes, many of the bus station accessible routes around Carsington Water are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the Roadford Lake Dam – Draw Off Tower loop from Carsington CP is a moderate circular hike that takes you past notable features.
The trails offer a variety of sights. You can enjoy expansive views of Carsington Water itself, explore native woodlands, and observe wildlife in reedbeds. Notable man-made features include the Roadford Lake Dam and the unique Draw Off Tower. Some routes also pass by carved wooden sculptures and traditional dry stone walls.
Yes, some routes venture beyond the immediate reservoir area to historical points of interest. For instance, the National Stone Centre – Middleton Top Engine House loop from Carsington CP is a moderate hike that takes you past significant heritage sites, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past.
Many trails around Carsington Water are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near wildlife habitats, livestock, and other visitors. Please be mindful of local signage and regulations regarding dogs on specific paths or in certain areas.
Absolutely. The entire area around Carsington Water is known for its scenic beauty. Many trails offer continuous views across the reservoir and the surrounding rolling hills. Routes like the Harboro' Rocks – Harboro Rocks Trig Point loop from Brassington CP provide elevated perspectives and expansive valley views.
Carsington Water is beautiful year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and active birdlife, while summer offers pleasant weather for longer hikes. Autumn showcases stunning foliage, and even winter can be rewarding with crisp air and unique views, though some paths might be muddy. The well-surfaced limestone paths make many routes accessible in various conditions.
Yes, the main Visitor Centre at Carsington Water is a central hub offering information, refreshments, and a Wildlife Discovery Centre. Many trails will either pass by or be within easy reach of this facility, providing convenient stops for hikers.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.