Embsay Reservoir
A serene Yorkshire Dales gem offering easy walks, stunning views, and watersports amidst pastoral beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild weather, vibrant scenery
Embsay Reservoir
Best Time
Mild weather, vibrant scenery
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Yorkshire Dales gem offering easy walks, stunning views, and watersports amidst pastoral beauty.
"Lovely reservoir easy to walk around and surrounded by Dales views."
🚶♀️ Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for the reservoir walk and especially if climbing Embsay Crag.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
A good-sized car park makes starting your visit easy.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Reservoir Walk
Around the reservoir perimeter
An easy, picturesque 1-mile loop offering lovely Dales views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Embsay Crag Ascent
Adjacent to the reservoir
Challenging climbs with rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding moorland and valleys.
Watersports Fun
Reservoir surface
Learn to sail or enjoy other water activities in a beautiful, serene setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors: Best Times to Visit
Getting Around Embsay Reservoir
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for the reservoir walk and especially if climbing Embsay Crag.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
A good-sized car park makes starting your visit easy.
📸 Capture the Dawn Mist
Visit at dawn for stunning misty views over the Dales.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Especially important for longer walks or climbs around Embsay Crag.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for the reservoir walk and especially if climbing Embsay Crag.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
A good-sized car park makes starting your visit easy.
📸 Capture the Dawn Mist
Visit at dawn for stunning misty views over the Dales.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Especially important for longer walks or climbs around Embsay Crag.
🗺️ Explore Embsay Crag
For a more adventurous hike with incredible views, tackle Embsay Crag.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Embsay Reservoir for its beautiful, picturesque scenery and the enjoyable, easy walks it offers. The accessible nature of the reservoir and the stunning Dales views are frequently highlighted as major positives. Some mention the potential for more challenging hikes up Embsay Crag for those seeking adventure.
"Lovely reservoir easy to walk around and surrounded by Dales views"
Jacqueline Green
"Absolutely beautiful. Great walk too"
Mark Stokoe
"Very nice picturesque area"
Keith B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Embsay Reservoir is easily accessible by car, with a good-sized car park available. It's located a short drive from Skipton, which has train and bus services.
Public transport options are limited directly to the reservoir. It's best to drive or take a taxi from Skipton, which is the nearest town with good transport links.
Walking is the most popular way to explore. You can do an easy loop around the reservoir or tackle the more challenging Embsay Crag for stunning views.
While cycling is possible on some paths, the terrain around the reservoir and especially Embsay Crag can be challenging. It's more suited for walking and hiking.
Embsay Reservoir is just an 8-minute drive from Skipton, making it a convenient destination for a day out.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Embsay Reservoir and the surrounding walking areas is generally free. There are no admission fees for the reservoir itself.
The car park at Embsay Reservoir is typically free to use, making it a cost-effective destination for a day out.
As an outdoor natural area, Embsay Reservoir does not have set opening or closing times. It is accessible at all hours, though visiting during daylight is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
Yes, activities like sailing and other watersports can be booked through local providers or clubs that operate on the reservoir. It's advisable to check their specific booking procedures and availability.
Dogs are generally welcome at Embsay Reservoir, but it's important to keep them under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors. Always check local signage for specific rules.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the beautiful walking routes around the reservoir and up Embsay Crag, offering stunning Dales views and a peaceful natural environment.
The walk around the reservoir is approximately 1 mile and can be completed in about 30-45 minutes, depending on your pace.
Facilities are limited directly at the reservoir. The nearby town of Skipton offers cafes and amenities, and some visitors mention stopping at Billy Bob's Parlour.
Absolutely! The reservoir offers picturesque scenes, especially at dawn with mist, and the views from Embsay Crag are fantastic for landscape photography.
You can expect to see various bird species around the reservoir. The surrounding Dales landscape also supports diverse wildlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Embsay Reservoir. Visitors often head to nearby Skipton for a wide range of cafes and restaurants.
Yes, Embsay Reservoir is a great spot for a picnic. There are scenic areas around the reservoir where you can enjoy your own food.
Billy Bob's Parlour is a popular nearby family-friendly destination mentioned by visitors. Skipton also offers numerous pubs, shops, and cafes.
📸 📸 Photography
Dawn is particularly magical with low-lying mist blanketing the hills, creating a serene atmosphere. Golden hour in the late afternoon also offers beautiful light.
The reservoir itself, especially with reflections on calm days, and the panoramic views from the top of Embsay Crag are prime photography locations.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local bylaws and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A tripod is recommended for dawn or dusk shots.
Look for reflections on the water, the dramatic landscapes from Embsay Crag, and the changing light throughout the day. Wildlife, such as birds, can also be interesting subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the reservoir itself is calm, keep a close eye on children near the water. The climb up Embsay Crag might be a bit challenging for very young children, but the main reservoir walk is very accessible and enjoyable for all ages. Pack snacks and drinks to keep everyone happy on their adventure.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
If you're seeking more of a challenge, the hike up Embsay Crag provides a rewarding climb with spectacular views, offering a sense of accomplishment. The area is generally safe and welcoming, making it a great choice for a solo adventure in the Yorkshire countryside.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For dramatic and atmospheric shots, aim for dawn, when mist often settles over the valleys, creating a magical scene. The ascent to Embsay Crag rewards photographers with sweeping panoramic views, ideal for capturing the vastness of the countryside. Don't forget to experiment with different times of day to capture the changing light and moods of this beautiful location.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Walking and Hiking Adventures
For a more challenging and rewarding experience, Embsay Crag beckons. Ascending the crag offers stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding Yorkshire Dales. This hike involves some scrambling and can be a good workout, with visitors noting the rewarding views from the top.
When planning your walk, remember to wear appropriate footwear, especially for the crag, and consider bringing water and snacks, as facilities are limited. The varied terrain ensures there's a walk for everyone, from a leisurely amble to a more vigorous climb.
Watersports and Activities
Beyond sailing, other water-based activities may be available, providing a refreshing way to enjoy the reservoir during warmer months. Summer mornings are often recommended for the best conditions, offering a peaceful environment on the water.
While specific booking details for watersports should be confirmed with local operators, the reservoir provides a beautiful and accessible setting for those looking to get out on the water and enjoy a different perspective of the Dales landscape.
Photography Opportunities
For truly dramatic shots, consider visiting at dawn. The low-lying mist often blankets the rolling hills, creating a serene and ethereal atmosphere that is a photographer's dream. The ascent to Embsay Crag also yields breathtaking panoramic views, perfect for capturing the grandeur of the Yorkshire Dales.
Whether you're using a smartphone or professional camera gear, Embsay Reservoir offers ample opportunities to capture stunning natural beauty. Remember to pack your camera and be ready to seize the moment, especially during the magical light of early morning or late afternoon.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit