We're carrying out essential work which might affect your visit
To keep everyone safe while we work, we've had to close footpaths over the road from the carpark. The carpark is still open and you're still welcome to visit, but please follow all signage and keep away from closed paths. We'll finish the work and reopen the paths as soon as we can.
While work is underway, why not visit nearby Swinsty or Fewston instead?
Car parking charges
We’re trialing car parking charges at this reservoir from 22 January. All funds will be invested into countryside management, biodiversity projects and our brand new Ranger Team.
Take in stunning views at Thruscross Reservoir
Thruscross is the highest reservoir in the charming Washburn Valley feeding water into Fewston, Swinsty and Lindley Wood reservoirs. With its altitude comes stunning views of the valley and surrounding moorland. Use our car park on Reservoir Road, Thruscross, Harrogate HG3 4BB. Please note there is a 2.1m height barrier. The walk features woodlands, moorland, pastures and ruined farmsteads galore, ensuring an enjoyable, picturesque experience.
Facilities
Activities
Parking charges
| Time | Charge |
|---|---|
| 1 hour | £1 |
| 2 hours | £2 |
| 6 hours | £3 |
| All day | £5 |
| Annual permit | £30 |
| Annual blue badge permit | Free |
Please pay using our on-site ticket machines (card only), RingGo app or apply for a permit online.
Walks
| Walk | Distance | Difficulty | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thruscross walk | 4.5 miles | 3 out of 4 |
|
Fishing
The Washburn Valley Fishery offers exceptionally high quality fly and coarse fishing in a stunning rural setting.
Visitor information
To keep everyone happy and safe, please:
- follow government guidance
- don’t swim
- take your litter home
- stick to the path
- keep your dog on a lead
- clean up after your dog
- don’t light fires or BBQs.
Make a day of it
While you're here, why not visit a nearby reservoir?
Fewston Reservoir
Situated in the charming Washburn valley, sharing an embankment with Swinsty Reservoir, Fewston is popular with walkers and runners. Cyclists and horse-riders can also make use of their own permitted tracks in the surrounding woodlands.
Swinsty Reservoir
There's plenty of choice for those seeking recreation at Swinsty Reservoir; whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll around the well-surfaced reservoir paths or a wander through the nearby fields and woods. Also welcome are cyclists and horse riders, as well as anglers seeking high quality course and fly fishing.
How to get there
By car
You can use our car park, which is on Reservoir Road (HG3 4BB) next to the dam wall. Please note, there is a 1.8 metre height barrier.
From Harrogate
Follow the A59 Harrogate/ Skipton road towards Skipton for 8 miles and turn right shortly after a metal roadside barrier onto Hall Lane signposted for West End. Follow Hall Lane for another 0.5 miles and turn right onto Reservoir Road. Follow the road for 100 metres to find the car park on your right.
By public transport
DalesBus services 820 and 821 run to Blubberhouses every hour on summer Sundays and bank holidays from Otley and links from Keighley, Shipley, and Guiseley.
More things to do near Harrogate
Whether you fancy a gentle stroll around a reservoir, a challenging hike, a bike ride with the family, a bit of pony trekking or an afternoon of fishing, there's plenty to do around Harrogate.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Thruscross Reservoir?
No, you can't swim in Thruscross Reservoir. Reservoirs are really dangerous places and have lots of dangers hidden under the surface. We don't allow anyone to swim in our reservoirs, even if you’re a great swimmer!
Why can’t you swim in Thruscross Reservoir?
Thruscross Reservoir has lots of hidden dangers. The water is very cold (even in summer) and cold water shock can kill. Thruscross Reservoir supplies water to be treated, so there's machinery and strong currents under the water. There may also be blue-green algae, which causes rashes and severe illnesses.
Can dogs swim in Thruscross Reservoir?
No, it’s not safe for dogs to swim in Thruscross Reservoir and they shouldn’t drink the water. Blue-green algae can form on the surface, which is poisonous and can kill them. There’s also dangerous machinery and strong currents under the water.
Is wild swimming allowed in Thruscross Reservoir?
No, Thruscross Reservoir is dangerous. Reservoirs aren't the same as natural lakes, they’re man-made and have large machinery that’s working 24/7 just below the surface. They’re also very cold, have strong currents and might have blue-green algae which causes rashes and severe illness.