Ogden Reservoir

Ogden reservoir is managed by Calderdale Council and features wonderful scenery with a babbling brook heading down Ogden Clough ravine.

Ogden Reservoir

There’s been a landslip on the Ogden Clough footpath

The circular route around Ogden Reservoir isn’t affected. But if you’re going to Ovenden Moor, we recommend taking a different route.

Discover picturesque landscapes at Ogden Reservoir 

The paths around the reservoir are wide with only small and short inclines and declines. Those desiring a more challenging walk can follow the path up on to Ovenden Moor Wind Farm. When visiting, please pay for parking (on Ogden Ln, Halifax HX2 8XZ) at the Visitor Centre which stocks cold and warm drinks, snacks and ice cream. The Visitor Centre also features toilets which are also managed by Calderdale Council. Those who don’t fancy a walk at all can simply enjoy an ice cream on the bench looking out over the water.

Facilities

ParkingDisabled parking  Toilets    Disabled toilet Picnic area

Activities

Walking  

Walks

Walk Distance Difficulty Facilities
Ogden walk 1.2 miles 1 out of 4

ParkingDisabled parking Toilets  Disabled toilet Picnic area

Ogden & Ovenden Moor walk 3 miles 3 out of 4

ParkingDisabled parking Toilets  Disabled toilet Picnic area

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.
Squirrel

How to get there

By car

The car park (£1 parking charge) and toilets are run by Calderdale Council. The car park can be accessed from Ogden Lane just off the A629.


From Keighley

Head South on South St/A629. After 2 miles, take the 1st exit from the roundabout on to Halifax Rd/A629. Continue on the road for 5½ miles and turn right onto Ogden Lane to find the car park.


By public transport

There is a bus stop on Halifax Road/A629 1 mile away from the start of this walk.

Can you swim in Ogden Reservoir?

No, you can't swim in Ogden 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 Ogden Reservoir?

Ogden Reservoir has lots of hidden dangers. The water is very cold (even in summer) and cold water shock can kill. Ogden 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 Ogden Reservoir?

No, it’s not safe for dogs to swim in Ogden 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 Ogden Reservoir?

No, Ogden 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.