Hurstwood Reservoir - Image 1
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Hurstwood Reservoir Lancashire

4.8
·105 reviews·Worsthorne, United Kingdom

Scenic reservoir loop in Lancashire, perfect for walks, dog outings, and connecting to the Pennine Bridleway for cycling.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunny days

Stunning views

CrowdMedium
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Hurstwood Reservoir - Image 1

Hurstwood Reservoir Lancashire

Best Time

Sunny days

Stunning views

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Scenic reservoir loop in Lancashire, perfect for walks, dog outings, and connecting to the Pennine Bridleway for cycling.

4.8
(105 reviews)

"A lovely spot for a stroll, with gorgeous views and plenty of space for dogs to roam."

Vertical photo
TIP

👢 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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Reservoir Loop

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

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

Woodland Trails

Surrounding wooded areas

Explore quieter paths through the woods, offering a different perspective and a chance for peaceful reflection.

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Planning Your Visit

Footwear is Key

Be prepared for potentially boggy terrain, especially on one side of the reservoir. Waterproof boots are highly recommended, particularly after rain or during winter months, to ensure a comfortable walk.

Leash Up for Your Pup

Hurstwood Reservoir is a popular spot for dog walkers, but it's also home to sheep. Keep your dog on a lead to protect livestock and ensure a safe experience for everyone.

Best Times

When
Sunny days
Why
Stunning views
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter mornings
Why
Magical snowy scenes
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hurstwood Reservoir. 3 laps just over 5 miles so just a little walk today, super easy trail, I faffed about a lot taking photos on the first lap then did the second two as a fast walk, another walk close to home, so many gorgeous places in Lancashire 🥰
heathers.hikes
69 likes • 297 views

👢 Boggy Path Alert!

One side of the reservoir can get very boggy. Waterproof boots are a must for a comfortable walk. Reddit

🐕 Keep Dogs on Lead

Lots of sheep around! Ensure your dog is on a lead to protect livestock and other visitors. Reddit

Strolling around… #hurstwoodreservoir #reservoir #hurstwood #lancashire #placestovisit #unitedkingdom🇬🇧
jaykhaled_m
0 likes • 356 views

🚶‍♀️ Easy Circular Walk

The main loop is about 5 miles and super easy, perfect for a relaxed stroll or a quick workout. TikTok

🚴‍♀️ Multi-Use Trails

Great for walking, running, cycling, and horse riding. Enjoy diverse activities here. Reddit

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. Reddit

🐕 Keep Dogs on Lead

Lots of sheep around! Ensure your dog is on a lead to protect livestock and other visitors. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy Circular Walk

The main loop is about 5 miles and super easy, perfect for a relaxed stroll or a quick workout. TikTok

🚴‍♀️ Multi-Use Trails

Great for walking, running, cycling, and horse riding. Enjoy diverse activities here. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(105 reviews)

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

Beautiful reservoir views
Peaceful walking trails
Dog-friendly environment

What People Dislike

Boggy sections
Dog mess in woods

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

Parking is available near the reservoir. Be mindful of other users and ensure you park responsibly, especially during busy periods. Instagram

Yes, the area is well-connected to the Pennine Bridleway, making it a fantastic destination for cyclists looking for scenic routes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Hurstwood Reservoir is a public access area, and there are no admission fees to enter or walk around. Instagram

As an outdoor natural area, Hurstwood Reservoir is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

There is no entrance fee for Hurstwood Reservoir. It's a free public amenity for everyone to enjoy. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

Swimming is generally not advised in reservoirs due to safety concerns, cold water, and potential currents. Stick to walking and other land-based activities. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTok

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunny days offer clear, vibrant views. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hurstwood Reservoir offers a straightforward and enjoyable outing for families. The main circular path around the reservoir is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for strollers and younger children. TikTok It's a great place for kids to experience nature, spot wildlife, and enjoy a good walk without overly strenuous climbs. Pack a picnic to make the most of the scenic surroundings. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

🏃‍♀️ Runners & Cyclists

For those looking for a more active experience, Hurstwood Reservoir is an excellent choice. The 5-mile circular route around the reservoir provides a consistent and scenic path for runners. TikTok Its relatively flat profile makes it ideal for tempo runs or steady-state training. Reddit

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. Reddit 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

Hurstwood Reservoir offers a variety of trails catering to different interests. The most popular is the circular walk around the reservoir itself, which is approximately 5 miles and considered an easy route. This path provides consistent views of the water and the surrounding landscape. TikTok Many visitors find this loop perfect for a leisurely stroll or a moderate-paced walk. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

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. Reddit 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

Hurstwood Reservoir is a beloved destination for dog owners, offering ample space for pups to enjoy the outdoors. The circular route around the reservoir is ideal for a good walk, allowing dogs to stretch their legs. Reddit The varied terrain, from open paths to woodland, provides stimulating environments for canine companions. TikTok

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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