Swithland Reservoir and Causeway
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Swithland Reservoir and Causeway

4.4
·179 reviews·Quorn, United Kingdom

A serene reservoir offering stunning views, especially at sunset, perfect for photography and peaceful escapes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer/Autumn evenings

Amazing sunset shots

CrowdLow
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Swithland Reservoir and Causeway

Swithland Reservoir and Causeway

Best Time

Summer/Autumn evenings

Amazing sunset shots

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene reservoir offering stunning views, especially at sunset, perfect for photography and peaceful escapes. Reddit

4.4
(179 reviews)

"Great pictures and scenery, the reservoir is stunning, a great place to go out for the day! Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive Carefully

The road to the reservoir is windy and can have a poor surface. Drive slowly and be aware of your surroundings.

📸 Sunset Views

Visit in summer or autumn for incredible sunset photos. The light over the water is magical.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Causeway & Dam Bridge

The Causeway & Dam Bridge

Near the old pumping station

Capture breathtaking views of the reservoir from this iconic spot. Perfect for photography, especially at sunset.

Reddit
Tranquil Escape

Tranquil Escape

Immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery. A great place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Reddit
Sunset Photography

Sunset Photography

The reservoir offers spectacular opportunities for capturing golden hour light. Ideal for photographers seeking dramatic skies.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Road Conditions & Access

The road leading to Swithland Reservoir can be windy and has a surface unsuitable for some cars. Drive with caution and be aware of the road conditions, especially if you're not used to rural routes. Reddit

Walking & Exploration

While the views from the dam bridge are stunning, there isn't a clear path to walk all the way around the reservoir or into the surrounding woods. It's ideal for a short visit or specific activities like running and dog walking. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer/Autumn evenings
Why
Amazing sunset shots
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful and quiet
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚗 Drive Carefully

The road to the reservoir is windy and can have a poor surface. Drive slowly and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit+1

📸 Sunset Views

Visit in summer or autumn for incredible sunset photos. The light over the water is magical. Reddit

🐕 Dog Walking Friendly

A great spot for dog walking, but be mindful of other visitors and keep your dog under control. Reddit

🏃‍♀️ Ideal for Runners

The open space and scenic views make it a popular choice for runners looking for a picturesque route. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive Carefully

The road to the reservoir is windy and can have a poor surface. Drive slowly and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit+1

📸 Sunset Views

Visit in summer or autumn for incredible sunset photos. The light over the water is magical. Reddit

🐕 Dog Walking Friendly

A great spot for dog walking, but be mindful of other visitors and keep your dog under control. Reddit

🏃‍♀️ Ideal for Runners

The open space and scenic views make it a popular choice for runners looking for a picturesque route. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(179 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Swithland Reservoir is praised for its beautiful, tranquil scenery and ease of parking, making it a lovely spot for a peaceful escape and photography, especially at sunset. However, visitors note the lack of a complete walking path around the reservoir and the challenging, windy road access, which limits its appeal for longer walks.

"Definitely a beautiful place, but no path to walk around the reservoir, and no access to the woods around the reservoir either. Great views from the damb bridge by the old pumping station, but not a go to destination for a walk in my opinion."

Tom Knight

"A lovely place to escape from everything and simply take in the tranquility that this place offers. Please use caution since the road is somewhat windy on the way there. You can also continue rounding in the direction of Woodhouse Eaves. Excellent location for running and dog walking!"

Babji Vundavilli

"Great pictures and scenery the resovoir is stunning, great place to go out for the day I'd say."

Jared Russell

What People Like

Beautiful tranquil scenery
Great sunset views
Easy parking

What People Dislike

No full walking path
Windy, poor road surface

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The reservoir is accessible by car, but be warned that the road surface can be poor and is quite windy. Follow local signage, and consider using a GPS. Reddit+1

Information on direct public transport is limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car, but check local bus routes for Woodhouse Eaves as a potential starting point. Reddit

Travelers report the road surface is not ideal for all cars and can be windy. Drive with extreme caution and at a reduced speed. Reddit

Cycling is possible, but be prepared for the challenging road conditions. The scenic route might appeal to experienced cyclists. Reddit

Yes, parking is generally described as easy and readily available, making it a convenient spot to visit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Swithland Reservoir and its surrounding areas are generally free to access, making it an affordable natural attraction. Reddit

As a natural reservoir, there are no set opening or closing hours. It's accessible at all times, though visiting during daylight is recommended for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

No, tickets are not required. Swithland Reservoir is a public space, and you can visit spontaneously without prior booking. Reddit

While generally open, be mindful of local bylaws regarding dog control and environmental protection. Stick to designated areas where possible. Reddit

Access can be challenging due to the road conditions and lack of a full perimeter path. The dam bridge offers views but may not be fully accessible. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Unfortunately, there isn't a complete path to walk around the entire reservoir, nor is there direct access to the surrounding woods. Reddit

The dam bridge by the old pumping station offers fantastic views and is a prime location for photography, especially during sunset. Reddit

Yes, many visitors find it an excellent location for running due to the open space and scenic environment. Reddit

Swimming is generally not advised or permitted in reservoirs due to safety concerns and water quality. Stick to land-based activities. Reddit

There are no specific visitor facilities like toilets or cafes directly at Swithland Reservoir. It's advisable to come prepared. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The golden hours of sunrise and sunset are particularly stunning, offering dramatic light and reflections on the water. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive reservoir views. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions during sunset. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the reservoir management for current rules before flying. Reddit

The causeway, the dam bridge, and the reflections of the sky and surrounding trees on the water are particularly picturesque. Reddit

Yes, the old pumping station is a notable feature near the dam bridge and can add an interesting element to your photographs. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Swithland Reservoir can be a pleasant outing for families, especially for a short visit. The easy parking and open space make it convenient for a quick stop. However, parents should be aware that there are no dedicated play areas or extensive walking paths suitable for strollers or young children to roam freely. Reddit The main draw is the scenic view from the dam bridge, which can be enjoyed briefly. It's best suited for families looking for a peaceful spot for a picnic or a short, supervised walk rather than a full day of activities. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Swithland Reservoir is a popular spot for dog walkers, offering a beautiful backdrop for your pet's exercise. The open areas allow dogs to stretch their legs, and the tranquil atmosphere is enjoyable for both pets and owners. Reddit It's crucial, however, to keep your dog under control, especially near the water and other visitors, and to clean up after them. Remember that while the reservoir itself is scenic, the lack of a full perimeter path means you'll be doing an out-and-back or a shorter loop rather than an extensive dog walk. Reddit

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Swithland Reservoir is a gem, particularly for landscape and sunset shots. The causeway and dam bridge offer iconic views, and the water often provides stunning reflections. Reddit Visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic light. While there isn't a lot of varied terrain for extensive landscape photography, the consistent beauty of the water and sky makes it a worthwhile destination. Reddit Be prepared for the drive, and consider bringing a tripod for those low-light conditions. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Roads to Swithland Reservoir

Reaching Swithland Reservoir requires careful navigation due to the challenging road conditions. Many visitors have noted that the road leading to the reservoir is quite windy and, in some sections, the surface is not ideal for standard cars. This means drivers should exercise extra caution, reduce their speed, and be prepared for a less-than-smooth journey. Reddit It's advisable to have a reliable GPS or map, and if you're driving a vehicle with low clearance or are unaccustomed to rural roads, consider parking a little further away and walking in if possible, though direct access is usually the goal. Reddit

Despite the road's condition, the effort is often rewarded with a sense of seclusion and tranquility upon arrival. The drive itself can be part of the adventure, offering glimpses of the Leicestershire countryside. However, the primary takeaway for visitors is to prioritize safety and drive defensively. Reddit If you're planning a visit, especially during adverse weather conditions, it's wise to check local road reports or be prepared for a slower pace of travel. Reddit

Experiencing Swithland Reservoir: Walks, Runs, and Views

Swithland Reservoir offers a unique experience for visitors, primarily centered around its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere. While it's a fantastic spot for a short visit, it's important to manage expectations regarding extensive walking trails. Unlike some reservoirs, there isn't a complete path that encircles Swithland Reservoir, nor is there easy access into the surrounding woodlands. Reddit This means it's less of a destination for a long, rambling hike and more suited for enjoying specific viewpoints and activities.

However, for those who enjoy running or walking, the open spaces around the reservoir are quite pleasant. Many visitors use the area for exercise, appreciating the tranquil environment and picturesque scenery. Reddit The most celebrated feature is undoubtedly the causeway and the dam bridge near the old pumping station. This vantage point provides stunning views across the water and is a magnet for photographers, particularly during the 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset. Reddit If you're looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle, even for a brief period, Swithland Reservoir delivers a dose of serenity. Reddit

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