Discover breathtaking views at Ingbirchworth Reservoir
The reservoir walk is only 1½ miles long but features wonderful views from the 19th century dam wall. Bring binoculars to observe the thriving bird life and take a seat on one of the benches to enjoy the great outdoors.
Activities
Walks
| Walk | Distance | Difficulty | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ingbirchworth walk | 1.3 miles | 2 out of 4 |
|
Please note, the permissive footpath will be closed for 1 week starting Monday 19th June for essential maintenance works. We apologise for the inconvenience, why not visit nearby Royd Moor or Scout Dike Reservoirs whilst Ingbirchworth is closed?
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?
Scout Dike Reservoir
North of Penistone is Scout Dike reservoir, a charming reservoir with a medium length walk around the perimeter, which is mostly well surfaced apart from the final stretch.
Royd Moor Reservoir
Royd Moor is the smallest of the three reservoirs just to the North of Penistone. The land around the reservoir is planted with mature native oak trees and lots of wildflowers, making it a nature lover’s retreat all year round.
How to get there
By car
On-street parking is located on Wellthorne Lane, S36 7GN.
From Penistone
Take the B6462 heading north for about a mile, until you reach the A629. Turn left and continue on the A629 for the next mile and a half, then turn left onto Wellthorne Lane.
By public transport
There are bus stops a 5-minute walk from the start of this route, near where Wellthorne Lane meets the A629.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Ingbirchworth Reservoir?
No, you can't swim in Ingbirchworth 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 Ingbirchworth Reservoir?
Ingbirchworth Reservoir has lots of hidden dangers. The water is very cold (even in summer) and cold water shock can kill. Ingbirchworth 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 Ingbirchworth Reservoir?
No, it’s not safe for dogs to swim in Ingbirchworth 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 Ingbirchworth Reservoir?
No, Ingbirchworth 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.