Ponden Reservoir Yorkshire - Image 1
1 / 3

Ponden Reservoir Yorkshire

4.6
·27 reviews·, United Kingdom

A picturesque Yorkshire reservoir offering scenic walks and a gateway to the rugged beauty of the moors, perfect for nature lovers.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Crisp air, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Ponden Reservoir Yorkshire - Image 1

Ponden Reservoir Yorkshire

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Crisp air, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque Yorkshire reservoir offering scenic walks and a gateway to the rugged beauty of the moors, perfect for nature lovers.

4.6
(27 reviews)

"Wonderful scenic area, great for camping and hiking and biking and walking and water sports."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Wear good walking shoes or boots; paths can be uneven and include road sections. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 Ample Roadside Parking

Plenty of space available on the southern side lane for easy access to trails. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Reservoir Loop Walk

Reservoir Loop Walk

Southern side

Enjoy a scenic 1.5-mile loop offering diverse views, though parts venture off the water's edge and onto a road.

Gateway to Brontë Country

Gateway to Brontë Country

Near Haworth

Ponden Reservoir serves as a starting point for exploring the rugged landscapes that inspired the Brontë sisters.

Panoramic Driving Views

Panoramic Driving Views

Roadside

Even a drive past Ponden Reservoir offers breathtaking scenic vistas of the surrounding Yorkshire landscape.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Wild Terrain

Ponden Reservoir offers stunning natural beauty but requires sturdy footwear for its varied paths. Be prepared for sections on roads and away from the water's edge. Check weather forecasts as conditions can change rapidly in the Yorkshire moors.

Parking & Access

Ample parking is available along the southern side of the reservoir on a wide lane. This makes it a convenient starting point for hikes. Remember, it's a gateway to many other walks, so plan your route accordingly.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Longer daylight hours
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Wear good walking shoes or boots; paths can be uneven and include road sections. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 Ample Roadside Parking

Plenty of space available on the southern side lane for easy access to trails. :car:

🗺️ Explore Beyond the Loop

Ponden is a hub for longer hikes to Haworth and beyond. Plan your route! :compass:

📸 Capture the Views

The drive-by scenery is stunning; pull over safely to take photos. :camerawithflash:

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Wear good walking shoes or boots; paths can be uneven and include road sections. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 Ample Roadside Parking

Plenty of space available on the southern side lane for easy access to trails. :car:

🗺️ Explore Beyond the Loop

Ponden is a hub for longer hikes to Haworth and beyond. Plan your route! :compass:

📸 Capture the Views

The drive-by scenery is stunning; pull over safely to take photos. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(27 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Ponden Reservoir for its stunning scenic beauty and excellent walking opportunities, particularly the loop trail and its role as a gateway to further exploration in the Yorkshire moors. The ample, free parking is also a significant plus. Some note that parts of the walk are on the road and away from the water, and facilities are minimal.

"Nice walks near the reservoir. We did a 1.5 mile loop of the reservoir this evening, though it does come away from the water, and a section is on the road. Lots of public footpaths around. There's parking alongside the reservoir on the southern side, plenty of space as the lane is wide."

Donna W

"Wonderful scenic area. Great for camping and hiking and biking and walking and water sports"

Stephen Ingham

"Stunning views from the road when driving past"

Luke W (Luke The Wildlife Guy)

What People Like

Stunning scenic views
Great walking trails
Ample free parking

What People Dislike

Road sections on walk
Limited facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ponden Reservoir is accessible by car, with parking available along the southern side of the reservoir on a wide lane. It's located near Haworth in West Yorkshire. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended for ease of access. Reddit

Yes, it's generally well-signposted if you're heading towards the Haworth area. The reservoir itself is a prominent feature once you're in the vicinity. Reddit

Yes, cycling is a popular activity in the area, and Ponden Reservoir is a scenic spot for bike rides. Many public footpaths are also suitable for cycling. Reddit

The closest notable town is Haworth, famous for its Brontë connections. Other nearby villages offer local amenities. Reddit

Direct public transport to the reservoir itself is scarce. You would likely need to take a bus or train to Haworth and then arrange onward travel, possibly a taxi or a long walk. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Ponden Reservoir is a natural landscape and public access area. There are no entry fees or tickets required to visit or walk around the reservoir. Reddit

Ponden Reservoir is open to the public at all times, as it is an outdoor natural area. Access is generally 24/7, though it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

Parking is free along the wide lane on the southern side of Ponden Reservoir. Reddit

Swimming in reservoirs is generally discouraged due to safety concerns, cold water, and potential currents. It's best to stick to designated water sports areas if available or enjoy the scenery from the banks. Reddit

Facilities are minimal. You'll find parking, but there are no visitor centers, cafes, or restrooms directly at the reservoir. It's advisable to come prepared with your own provisions. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main activity is walking and hiking, with a popular 1.5-mile loop around the reservoir. It's also a great spot for photography, picnicking, and as a starting point for longer treks into the surrounding moors, including routes towards Haworth. Reddit

You can do a loop walk of about 1.5 miles, which includes some sections on a road and away from the water. There are also numerous public footpaths branching out, offering more challenging hikes into the Yorkshire moors. Reddit

Yes, families can enjoy the scenic walks, especially the shorter loop. However, be mindful of the road sections and ensure children are supervised, particularly near the water. Reddit

Capture the expansive water views, the surrounding moorland, and the dramatic skies. Early morning or late afternoon light can offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Reddit

While wild camping might be possible in some remote areas of the moors, there are no official campsites directly at Ponden Reservoir. It's best to check local regulations or find designated campsites in nearby towns like Haworth. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The southern side offers great vantage points for capturing the full expanse of the reservoir and the rolling hills. Look for reflections on the water, especially during calmer weather. Reddit

Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides stunning light for landscape photography. Overcast days can also create a dramatic, moody atmosphere. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water and enhance sky colors. Reddit

The reservoir itself, the surrounding moorland, and the distant hills are the main subjects. If you're hiking further, you might find interesting rock formations or historical remnants. Reddit

Drone regulations vary. Always check current UK drone laws and any local restrictions before flying. Respect privacy and avoid flying over people or private property. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ponden Reservoir offers a lovely natural setting for families. The 1.5-mile loop walk is manageable for most children, providing a good opportunity for them to explore the outdoors. Be sure to keep a close eye on children, especially near the water's edge and during the sections of the walk that are on the road. Reddit

Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. The open space is great for letting kids burn off energy, and the scenic views can be a gentle introduction to the beauty of the Yorkshire moors. Consider making it part of a larger trip to nearby Haworth for a more varied family day out. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For serious hikers, Ponden Reservoir is more than just a destination; it's a launchpad for adventure. The surrounding moors are crisscrossed with public footpaths, offering challenging routes and the chance to experience the wild, untamed beauty of the Yorkshire landscape. Reddit

Plan your routes carefully, as the terrain can be demanding. The reservoir itself is a beautiful spot to start or end a hike, offering a sense of accomplishment and stunning views. Be prepared for all weather conditions and carry essential navigation tools. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Hiking and Walking Trails

Ponden Reservoir is a fantastic starting point for walkers and hikers, offering a variety of routes. The most accessible is the 1.5-mile loop that circles the reservoir. This path provides diverse scenery, though it does include sections on a public road and veers away from the water's edge at times. For those seeking more challenging adventures, Ponden Reservoir serves as a gateway to the wider Yorkshire moors. Numerous public footpaths branch out from the reservoir, leading to destinations like Haworth and beyond, offering rugged terrain and expansive views. Reddit

When planning your hike, it's crucial to wear sturdy footwear, such as hiking boots, as the terrain can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain. The weather in the moors can change rapidly, so it's advisable to check the forecast and be prepared for wind and rain, even on a seemingly clear day. Carrying a map or using a reliable GPS app is recommended for longer treks to ensure you stay on track. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy Ponden Reservoir as part of a longer pilgrimage to Brontë Country, inspired by the landscapes that fueled the imaginations of Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Brontë. The wild, untamed nature of the moors surrounding the reservoir is a significant part of its appeal, offering a sense of solitude and connection with nature. Reddit

Photography Opportunities

The scenic beauty of Ponden Reservoir makes it a popular spot for photographers. The expansive water views contrasted with the rolling Yorkshire moorland create dramatic and picturesque scenes. The best times for photography are often during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the light casts a warm glow over the landscape and can create stunning reflections on the water's surface. Reddit

Even a drive past the reservoir offers breathtaking vistas, with ample space along the southern lane to pull over safely and capture the scenery. Photographers can experiment with wide-angle lenses to encompass the vastness of the landscape or use telephoto lenses to focus on specific details within the moorland. Overcast days can also yield dramatic, moody shots, highlighting the rugged character of the area. Reddit

When visiting, consider bringing a polarizing filter to manage water reflections and enhance the sky's colors. Always be mindful of the weather; dramatic skies, especially after rain, can add a unique element to your photographs. Remember to respect the natural environment and any local photography guidelines. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2