
Greenfield Reservoir
A serene reservoir in the Peak District, offering tranquil walks, a beautiful waterfall, and stunning moorland views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Quieter trails, serene atmosphere

Greenfield Reservoir
Best Time
Quieter trails, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene reservoir in the Peak District, offering tranquil walks, a beautiful waterfall, and stunning moorland views.
"Greenfield Reservoir is a hidden gem offering a peaceful escape with breathtaking scenery and rewarding hikes."

Pack a Picnic 🍕
Limited facilities mean bringing your own food and drinks is key for a full day out .
Sturdy Footwear Needed 🥾
Trails can be uneven and muddy; good hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Greenfield Waterfall
Top of Greenfield Reservoir
A gorgeous waterfall with a rewarding scramble to the top for stunning panoramic views.

Trinnacle Rock Formations
Near Dovestone Reservoir
Dramatic rock formations offering a challenging but exhilarating hike and incredible photo opportunities.

Peaceful Reservoir Walks
Around Greenfield Reservoir
Enjoy serene trails with beautiful water views, often much quieter than nearby Dovestone.
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Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Greenfield Reservoir
Accessing Greenfield Reservoir
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack a Picnic 🍕
Limited facilities mean bringing your own food and drinks is key for a full day out.
Sturdy Footwear Needed 🥾
Trails can be uneven and muddy; good hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety.
Explore Beyond Dovestone 🗺️
Greenfield Reservoir is often less crowded, offering a more peaceful nature escape.
Waterfall Scramble 💪
The waterfall climb is tough but rewarding with amazing views from the top.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack a Picnic 🍕
Limited facilities mean bringing your own food and drinks is key for a full day out.
Sturdy Footwear Needed 🥾
Trails can be uneven and muddy; good hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety.
Explore Beyond Dovestone 🗺️
Greenfield Reservoir is often less crowded, offering a more peaceful nature escape.
Waterfall Scramble 💪
The waterfall climb is tough but rewarding with amazing views from the top.
Train Access is Easy 🚆
A 20-minute train ride from Manchester gets you close to this natural escape.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Greenfield Reservoir's tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, often highlighting it as a peaceful alternative to the busier Dovestone Reservoir. The scenic walks, rewarding waterfall scramble, and picturesque landscapes make it a beloved spot for nature lovers and hikers alike.
"Greenfield Reservoir is a hidden gem in Oldham! The tranquil atmosphere, stunning scenery, and well-kept trails make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll or enjoying a picnic by the water, this reservoir offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Don't miss the chance to explore this beautiful spot and reconnect with the great outdoors!"
jukejmen uk
"Brilliant little walk, lake, water streams, infinity pools, and a nice hike on top of the hills. Spot on"
Martin Kavanagh
"Beautiful spot and always so so much quieter than the main Dovestone reservoir. At the top of Greenfield reservoir there’s a gorgeous waterfall. You can scramble up it (if you’re feeling energetic) to take you up onto the tops for views."
Stacey MacNaught
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a train from Manchester to Greenfield station, which is a short walk from the reservoir. Driving is also an option, with parking available nearby, though it can get busy.
Yes, there is parking available, often indicated by postcodes like OL3 7NE. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as it can fill up quickly.
Cycling routes are available in the Peak District, and Greenfield Reservoir is a scenic stop. Ensure your bike is suitable for varied terrain if exploring off the main paths.
The waterfall is located at the top of the reservoir. A 'tough scramble' is mentioned, suggesting it requires some effort and potentially good footwear.
Yes, Greenfield Reservoir is accessible by public transport. Trains run to Greenfield station, making it a convenient destination for those without a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Greenfield Reservoir is a natural attraction and generally free to enter. There are no admission fees for walking around the reservoir itself.
As an outdoor natural area, Greenfield Reservoir does not have set opening or closing hours. It is accessible at all times, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
The trails around Greenfield Reservoir are part of the public access land in the Peak District and do not have an entrance fee.
General countryside access rules apply. It's important to respect the environment, stay on marked paths where possible, and take all litter with you. Specific restrictions might apply during extreme weather conditions.
While official guided tours might not be common, local walking groups or outdoor activity providers may offer guided hikes that include Greenfield Reservoir. Check local listings for options.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy easy, flat walks around the reservoir, or more challenging hikes up to the waterfall and surrounding hills, including routes that connect to Dovestone and Yeoman Hey reservoirs.
Yes, the area around Greenfield Reservoir is ideal for picnics. Many visitors enjoy finding a scenic spot by the water or on the hillsides to relax and eat.
Absolutely! The reservoir, surrounding hills, waterfalls, and rock formations like the Trinnacle offer stunning photographic opportunities, especially during golden hour.
You can expect to see various bird species, particularly waterfowl on the reservoir. The surrounding moorland and woodlands are also home to other native wildlife.
The main reservoir path is relatively easy, but the scramble up the waterfall and some of the hill routes can be challenging for very young children. A picnic and shorter walks might be more suitable.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no cafes or restaurants directly at Greenfield Reservoir. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks for a picnic.
The nearby village of Greenfield has local pubs and cafes. For a wider selection, you would need to travel back towards Oldham or Saddleworth.
Barbecues are generally not permitted in the Peak District National Park to prevent wildfires and protect the environment. It's best to stick to picnics.
Anywhere with a view! Many people find spots along the reservoir's edge or on the grassy slopes offering scenic vistas. The area near the waterfall is also popular.
Typically, there are no regular food stalls at Greenfield Reservoir. It's a natural area, so self-catering is the norm.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) offer the best light for landscape photography, creating dramatic shadows and warm tones.
The reservoir itself, the cascading waterfall, the rugged Trinnacle rock formations, and the panoramic views from the hilltops are all highly photogenic.
For personal photography, no permit is usually required. If you plan to conduct professional or commercial photography, it's advisable to check with the local authorities or park management.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife, and a tripod will help with low-light conditions or capturing water movement in the waterfall.
Drone usage may be restricted in national parks and around reservoirs due to privacy concerns and wildlife protection. Always check the latest regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Trail Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Greenfield Reservoir Circuit
Key features along these routes include the picturesque waters, surrounding moorlands, and the dramatic Trinnacle rock formations. The Greenfield Waterfall is another highlight, offering a chance for a scramble and rewarding views from above. The terrain can vary from well-maintained paths to more rugged, uneven ground, especially when deviating from the main reservoir paths.
It's worth noting that while Greenfield Reservoir itself is often quieter, Dovestone Reservoir can get very busy, particularly on weekends and during peak season. Planning your visit to Greenfield first or opting for weekday exploration can offer a more serene experience.
The Greenfield Waterfall and Scramble
This scramble is described as 'tough' and 'mildly scrambly,' indicating it requires a good level of fitness and sure-footedness. Proper footwear with good grip is essential. The effort is well worth it, as ascending alongside the waterfall leads to the moorland tops, offering expansive views across the valley and surrounding Peak District landscape.
This section of the hike is a fantastic way to add an element of challenge and reward to your visit. It's a popular spot for those looking for more than just a gentle stroll and provides excellent photographic opportunities of both the waterfall and the wider scenery.
Greenfield Reservoir vs. Dovestone Reservoir
Greenfield Reservoir, on the other hand, is generally quieter and more tranquil. This makes it an excellent option for those seeking a more peaceful escape into nature. The trails around Greenfield can be just as scenic, with the added bonus of the impressive waterfall and the opportunity to explore less-trodden paths. Many visitors appreciate Greenfield for its serene atmosphere, providing a welcome contrast to the busier Dovestone.
For those looking to experience both, a circular walk that encompasses both reservoirs is a popular option, allowing you to enjoy the unique charm of each location. This combined approach offers varied scenery and a more complete exploration of the valley's natural beauty.





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