Scammonden Reservoir

Please note: New Lane, Wood Edge and Crult Moor will remain closed for the time being.

Since the government guidelines have changed, we’ve been working hard to devise a plan to keep everyone safe while enjoying our beautiful reservoirs. We’ve reopened the car parks at this reservoir so visitors can walk around them as long as social distancing rules are observed.

To help direct visitors, we’ve installed some new signs that are there for everyone to follow so please take a moment to read them.

• Please maintain social distancing when walking around the reservoir
• Please follow designated paths. The paths are there to keep you and our key workers safe.
• Some of our paths may be closed off. This is because our key workers need to access them and they will be clearly signposted that they are closed.
• Make sure you take any litter home with you and do not light any BBQs or fires.
• If the car park is full, please do not park on verges or on the road as this causes traffic issues.

All of our toilet facilities are still closed at these reservoirs so please be mindful of this when visiting.

Don’t be put off by how close this reservoir is to the M62 reservoir, it is a still a haven of peace and tranquillity. Start the walk round the reservoir at any of our 3 free car parks (please note closing times detailed on site prior to setting off on your walk). The path follows some steep slopes but has no stiles and the steps are optional.

Enjoy wonderful views from the picnic area and rest stops around the reservoir, observing the sailing club bobbing around. If you don’t fancy a picnic, continue into Ripponden (8 miles) or Sowerby Bridge (11 miles) for cafes and restaurants.

Those feeling more adventurous may choose to walk up to Deanhead Reservoir. The walk uphill is hugely rewarding as panoramic views can be observed from the Dam wall.

During construction of Scammonden Reservoir, the village of Deanhead was submerged and many buildings were demolished to make way for the essential Scammonden Reservoir. Scammonden now holds a massive 7.8 billion litres of water, that’s enough to last one person 78 million days.