Green Withens Reservoir

Yes, Green Withens Reservoir offers easy, relatively flat walks around its perimeter, making it suitable for families. The paths are generally well-maintained, and the open moorland provides plenty of space for children to explore. However, always be mindful of the exposed nature of the area and prepare for changing weather conditions.

Green Withens Reservoir is very dog-friendly, with many visitors enjoying walks with their canine companions. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially due to the presence of livestock on the surrounding moorland. Always be prepared to put your dog on a lead when near sheep or other animals.

An easy walk directly around the reservoir typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and whether you stop to enjoy the views. The circular route is relatively short, but can be extended by connecting to other trails in the Pennines.

Parking is generally available near Green Withens Reservoir. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, bank holidays, and during peak summer months. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended to secure a spot, particularly if you plan to visit during popular times.

The immediate vicinity of Green Withens Reservoir is quite remote, offering a sense of solitude. For cafes, pubs, and accommodation, you would need to venture a short distance to nearby villages and towns such as Ripponden or Rishworth, which offer a selection of amenities.

Access to Green Withens Reservoir by public transport can be challenging due to its remote moorland location. While there might be bus services to nearby main roads or villages, a significant walk or a taxi ride would likely be required to reach the reservoir itself. Driving is generally the most convenient option.

Green Withens Reservoir is a working reservoir managed by Yorkshire Water. Wild swimming is generally not permitted in reservoirs due to safety concerns, such as cold water shock, hidden underwater hazards, and strong currents from machinery. It's best to enjoy the water sports offered by the Green Withens Water Sports Centre instead.

The Green Withens Water Sports Centre, which is also the County Water Activities Centre, offers a range of activities. These include dinghy sailing, kayaking, canoeing, bellboating, and rafting. They cater to various skill levels, from beginners to more experienced participants.

The entire area around Green Withens Reservoir offers excellent viewpoints due to its open moorland setting. You can enjoy 360-degree views across Rishworth Moor and the surrounding Pennine landscape from almost any point along the reservoir's perimeter paths. The elevated sections of the circular walk provide particularly expansive vistas.

The immediate circular walk around Green Withens Reservoir is relatively easy, with mostly flat and well-defined paths. However, if you extend your walk onto the Pennine Way or other surrounding moorland trails, the terrain can become more challenging, with steeper ascents, uneven ground, and more exposed conditions. These longer routes are suitable for experienced hikers.

Yes, Green Withens Reservoir is a popular spot for trail running. The circular path around the reservoir offers a relatively flat and scenic route for a shorter run, while the surrounding moorland trails provide opportunities for longer, more challenging runs with varied terrain and elevation changes, perfect for those seeking a more rigorous workout.

Green Withens Reservoir was completed in 1898, originally built to supply water to Wakefield Corporation Waterworks and later Morley Corporation. It was designed by engineer Charles Gott and involved the demolition of local farms. Today, it remains an important part of Yorkshire Water's grid system, providing a vital water supply.