
Hurstwood Reservoir Lancashire
Scenic reservoir loop in Lancashire, perfect for walks, dog outings, and connecting to the Pennine Bridleway for cycling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Stunning views

Hurstwood Reservoir Lancashire
Best Time
Stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic reservoir loop in Lancashire, perfect for walks, dog outings, and connecting to the Pennine Bridleway for cycling.
"A lovely spot for a stroll, with gorgeous views and plenty of space for dogs to roam."

👢 Boggy Path Alert!
One side of the reservoir can get very boggy. Waterproof boots are a must for a comfortable walk.
🐕 Keep Dogs on Lead
Lots of sheep around! Ensure your dog is on a lead to protect livestock and other visitors.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Reservoir Loop
Circular path around the water
Enjoy a refreshing stroll or brisk walk with scenic water views. Perfect for a quick escape.

Pennine Bridleway Access
Connects to the main reservoir path
Extend your adventure! This route is ideal for cycling, running, or even horse riding.

Woodland Trails
Surrounding wooded areas
Explore quieter paths through the woods, offering a different perspective and a chance for peaceful reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Footwear is Key
Leash Up for Your Pup
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👢 Boggy Path Alert!
One side of the reservoir can get very boggy. Waterproof boots are a must for a comfortable walk.
🐕 Keep Dogs on Lead
Lots of sheep around! Ensure your dog is on a lead to protect livestock and other visitors.
🚶♀️ Easy Circular Walk
The main loop is about 5 miles and super easy, perfect for a relaxed stroll or a quick workout.
🚴♀️ Multi-Use Trails
Great for walking, running, cycling, and horse riding. Enjoy diverse activities here.
Tips
from all over the internet
👢 Boggy Path Alert!
One side of the reservoir can get very boggy. Waterproof boots are a must for a comfortable walk.
🐕 Keep Dogs on Lead
Lots of sheep around! Ensure your dog is on a lead to protect livestock and other visitors.
🚶♀️ Easy Circular Walk
The main loop is about 5 miles and super easy, perfect for a relaxed stroll or a quick workout.
🚴♀️ Multi-Use Trails
Great for walking, running, cycling, and horse riding. Enjoy diverse activities here.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hurstwood Reservoir for its beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere, making it a favorite for walks and dog outings. While generally well-maintained, some areas can become boggy, and there's a recurring issue with dog mess in the woods, which detracts from the experience for some. Overall, it's a highly recommended natural spot in Lancashire.
"It's a lovely spot and we quite often taken a stroll around the reservoir at the weekend. Up there today, and plenty of folk about. Not too bad for dog mess on the approach to the reservoir today, but in the woods around the cycle track it was messy. Obvious culprits were those going off path thinking they don't have to pick up after themselves if they are in the woods. This also impeded the biking for the teens. Your laziness spoils it for the rest of us 😢"
Kev Rob
"Beautiful place to walk the doggo a firm favourite of ours. Circular routes and goes on to the pennie brideway. So you can walk, run cycle or ride a horse. Make sure to keep your dog on a lead tho because there are lots of sheep"
Sean Cartwright
"Nice peaceful walk, the odd dog walker around but otherwise quiet. Boggy on one side - boots recommended. Nice when there is snow on the ground."
Jo Ferguson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hurstwood Reservoir is accessible by car, with parking available nearby. It's also a popular destination for those looking for walks originating from the surrounding areas.
Information on direct public transport links can be limited. It's often best to check local bus routes or consider it as part of a longer walk or cycle from nearby towns.
Many visitors enjoy a circular walk directly around the reservoir, which is approximately 5 miles. You can also access the Pennine Bridleway for longer routes.
Parking is available near the reservoir. Be mindful of other users and ensure you park responsibly, especially during busy periods.
Yes, the area is well-connected to the Pennine Bridleway, making it a fantastic destination for cyclists looking for scenic routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Hurstwood Reservoir is a public access area, and there are no admission fees to enter or walk around.
As an outdoor natural area, Hurstwood Reservoir is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee for Hurstwood Reservoir. It's a free public amenity for everyone to enjoy.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of lighting. Stick to daylight hours for the best experience.
The main restriction is to be considerate of the environment and other users. Please pick up after your dog and stay on designated paths where possible.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy walking, running, cycling, and horse riding around the reservoir and on the connected Pennine Bridleway. It's a great spot for nature lovers and dog walkers.
Yes, it's a very popular spot for dog walkers. However, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead due to the presence of sheep.
The main trail is a relatively flat, circular route around the reservoir, approximately 5 miles. There are also woodland paths and access to the Pennine Bridleway.
Swimming is generally not advised in reservoirs due to safety concerns, cold water, and potential currents. Stick to walking and other land-based activities.
There are no dedicated facilities such as toilets or cafes directly at Hurstwood Reservoir. It's advisable to come prepared with your own refreshments and essentials.
📸 📸 Photography
The reservoir itself offers beautiful reflections and scenic views, especially on a clear day. The surrounding woodlands and the Pennine Bridleway also provide diverse photographic subjects.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunny days offer clear, vibrant views.
A versatile lens, like a wide-angle or a standard zoom, is great for capturing landscapes. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or capturing reflections.
Walk around the reservoir to find your favorite angles. The dam area and various points along the path offer excellent perspectives of the water and surrounding hills.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local bylaws and guidelines regarding drone operation in public spaces and near water bodies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the reservoir itself is the main attraction, the surrounding woodlands can also be fun for kids to explore, offering a sense of adventure. However, parents should be mindful of the boggy sections and ensure children wear appropriate footwear. If you have a dog, this is a fantastic family-friendly spot, but remember to keep them on a lead due to the presence of sheep.
🏃♀️ Runners & Cyclists
Cyclists will particularly appreciate the direct access to the Pennine Bridleway. This network offers a wealth of off-road cycling opportunities, from leisurely rides to more challenging mountain biking routes. The varied terrain means you can tailor your ride to your fitness level and desired experience. Remember to check trail conditions, as some sections can be muddy after rain.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
For those seeking more adventure, the reservoir is a gateway to the Pennine Bridleway. This national trail offers longer and more challenging routes for cyclists, runners, and horse riders. The integration with this extensive network means you can easily extend your visit into a full day's exploration of the Lancashire countryside. Remember that some sections, particularly in the woods, can be boggy, so appropriate footwear is essential.
Beyond the main paths, the wooded areas surrounding the reservoir provide quieter, more secluded trails. These can be particularly beautiful in autumn or after a snowfall. While these paths offer a sense of tranquility, they can also be less maintained, so always be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards.
A Haven for Dog Owners
However, it's crucial for dog owners to be responsible. The area is home to sheep, and it's imperative to keep dogs on a lead at all times to prevent any harm to the livestock. This is a common point of emphasis in local discussions, with some visitors expressing frustration over off-leash dogs impacting the experience for others and the wildlife.
While the reservoir is a fantastic spot for dogs, be aware that some areas can become boggy, especially after wet weather. Ensure your dog is comfortable with potentially muddy conditions, and be prepared to clean them up afterwards. Despite these considerations, the overall consensus is that Hurstwood Reservoir is a top-tier location for a dog-friendly outing in Lancashire.



Social
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