We're working in the area
We're carrying out works at Swinsty Reservoir with our contract partners, Stonbury, which will be taking place until the end of September 2026. This work is to refurbish and test the scour pipework in the reservoir, as well as repair some natural erosion to the embankment. If you're visiting, you may see us in the area around the crest (at the southern end of the reservoir). But don't worry, you'll still be able to access and walk around the reservoir as normal! Thanks for bearing with us.
Discover breathtaking views on our Swinsty walk
This route around Swinsty Reservoir nestles in the stunning Washburn Valley and provides breathtaking views across the water and the surrounding landscape, especially from the embankment near the River Washburn or various rest points dotted along the walk.
Facilities
Activities
Car parking charges
We’re trialing car parking charges at this reservoir. All funds will be invested into countryside management, biodiversity projects and our Ranger Team.
| 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.
Need an easier walk?
Great news! The footpaths on this walks are consistently wide and well-surfaced. The route is mostly flat with some gentle slopes. There are no steps, stiles or gates on this route.
Details
Location
Less than 10 miles west of Harrogate and north of Otley.
Difficulty
1 out of 4
Route length
3 miles
Walking time
2 hours
Terrain & gradient
The footpaths on this walks are consistently wide and well-surfaced. The route is mostly flat with some gentle slopes. There are no steps, stiles or gates on this route.
How to get there
By car
The route starts at Swinsty Moor and Fewston Reservoir car park (LS21 2NP) (point 1) at the southern end of the Fewston Reservoir Embankment. Alternative parking is available at Stack Point car park (HG3 1SU), along the eastern edge of Swinsty Reservoir. Please note that both have a 2.2m height barrier.
From Harrogate
take the A59 heading west. Before you reach Blubbershouses, turn left at the roundabout onto the B6451. Take the second right onto Wydra Lane, which becomes Back Lane and takes you across Fewston Reservoir Embankment. Shortly afterwards you will reach Swinsty Moor and Fewston Reservoir car park.
By public transport
DalesBus services 820 and 821 run to Swinsty every hour on summer Sundays and bank holidays from Otley and links from Keighley, Shipley, and Guiseley.
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 try another walk?
| Walk | Distance | Difficulty | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 miles | 1 out of 4 |
|
|
| 10 miles | 3 out of 4 |
|
|
| 6.2 miles | 3 out of 4 |
|
|
| 4.25 miles | 4 out of 4 |
|
|
| 4.5 miles | 3 out of 4 |
|
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.
Facilities
Activities
| 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.