Yarrow Reservoir - Image 1
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Yarrow Reservoir

4.6
·38 reviews·, United Kingdom

A serene reservoir offering stunning moorland views and peaceful walks, with a unique overflow system.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Tranquil views, fewer visitors

CrowdLow
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Yarrow Reservoir - Image 1

Yarrow Reservoir

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Tranquil views, fewer visitors

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene reservoir offering stunning moorland views and peaceful walks, with a unique overflow system.

4.6
(38 reviews)

"A tranquil place permitting panoramic views of the West Pennine Moors."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Park at Anglezarke

Limited parking at Yarrow; park at Anglezarke and enjoy a scenic walk.

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

Paths can be steep and uneven; good footwear is essential for exploring.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Yarrow Reservoir Overflow

Yarrow Reservoir Overflow

Connecting to Anglezarke Reservoir

Witness the impressive engineering and therapeutic sounds of water flowing over the dam.

Scenic Reservoir Walks

Scenic Reservoir Walks

Circumferential paths

Enjoy panoramic views of the West Pennine Moors on well-maintained paths around the reservoir.

Dog Head Sculpture

Dog Head Sculpture

Path beside Yarrow Reservoir

A unique, hidden gem for keen-eyed visitors to discover along the walking trails.

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Planning Your Visit

Best Time for Peaceful Exploration

Avoid weekend crowds by visiting on weekdays. Early mornings or late afternoons offer serene views and fewer people, making it ideal for photography and quiet contemplation. Check local weather for the best experience.

Parking and Access Tips

Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Consider parking at Anglezarke Reservoir and enjoying a scenic walk to Yarrow. Some paths can be steep, so wear appropriate footwear.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Tranquil views, fewer visitors
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, peaceful
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Golden leaves, crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is how you Cabin right! Introducing @thecabinsatrivington. These awesome cabins have scenic views overlooking the Yarrow Reservoir, and across Lancashire. Based on a family-run farm you will be surrounded by unspoilt countryside, animals, nature, and woodland. Book your stay today! #LancashireViews #VisitLancashire #YarrowReservoir #HiddenGemsUK #UKGetaways #NorthWestEngland #DiscoverBritain
innstylehq
2 likes • 97 views

🚶‍♀️ Park at Anglezarke

Limited parking at Yarrow; park at Anglezarke and enjoy a scenic walk. Reddit

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

Paths can be steep and uneven; good footwear is essential for exploring. Reddit

Another fantastic Well Being Walk yesterday around the beautiful Yarrow Reservoir and Lead Mines Clough! 🌿🥾 Covering a scenic 4.6 miles, it was the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy some fresh air. With 13 enthusiastic participants joining us, it was great to see such a strong turnout. Your support and participation are what make these walks so rewarding. 🫶🏼 Our Well Being Wal...
innerpeakwellbeing
4 likes • 100 views
Overflow from Yarrow Reservoir to Angelzarke Reservoir
mo_lambat
177 likes • 779 views

📸 Drone photography

Peaceful spot for drone enthusiasts to capture stunning aerial views. Instagram

🐶 Dog-friendly walks

Great location for dog walks, but keep them on a lead near the water. Instagram

Crisp blue skies & golden autumn leaves what a combo! 🍂🩵 After the summer heatwave, the reservoir is slowly filling again 💧 This is a stunning circular walk right from the doorstep of the cabins 🥾🗺️ #thecabinsatrivington #yarrowreservoir #rivington #lancashire #autumnsun #staycation #cabinstay
thecabinsatrivington
32 likes • 693 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Park at Anglezarke

Limited parking at Yarrow; park at Anglezarke and enjoy a scenic walk. Reddit

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

Paths can be steep and uneven; good footwear is essential for exploring. Reddit

📸 Drone photography

Peaceful spot for drone enthusiasts to capture stunning aerial views. Instagram

🐶 Dog-friendly walks

Great location for dog walks, but keep them on a lead near the water. Instagram

📍 Discover hidden art

Look out for the unique dog head sculpture on the reservoir wall. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(38 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Yarrow Reservoir for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful walking paths, offering stunning views of the West Pennine Moors. It's a peaceful escape, especially appreciated for its natural beauty and the unique engineering of its overflow system. Some note that amenities are scarce and parking can be challenging on busy days.

"Yarrow Reservoir is a great place for a walk with plenty of paths leading to other ereas to explore."

Marcus Clementson

"update 2Apr2021 - look for out for the new dog head sculpture in the wall on the path beside Yarrow reservoir if you visit (see photo). Spotted for 1st time today

Yarrow reservoir is a tranquil place permitting panaromic views of the West Pennine Moors from the Anglezarke side.

It's not a place to be described but experienced for yourself.

To get there park beside Anglezarke reservoir and walk up the track furthest away from Anderton direction.

Gets busy at weekends/day time during national lockdowns."

D Lister

"A lovely place to have a walk."

Colin Walls

What People Like

Tranquil atmosphere
Scenic walking paths
Impressive overflow

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Scarce amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Yarrow Reservoir is best accessed by car. Parking is available at Anglezarke Reservoir, which is a short, scenic walk away. Some visitors also park near The Cabins at Rivington for access. InstagramReddit

Parking directly at Yarrow Reservoir is limited, especially on busy days. It's recommended to park at the nearby Anglezarke Reservoir and walk. Reddit

Yes, cycling routes are available, and many visitors enjoy biking around the reservoirs. The paths offer a good cycling experience with scenic views. Instagram

Public transport options are limited. While buses may serve nearby areas like Rivington, walking or cycling from a drop-off point is often necessary. Instagram

The nearest towns include Chorley and Bolton. These towns offer further amenities and can be starting points for longer excursions. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Yarrow Reservoir is a public area and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. You can visit and explore freely. Reddit

Yarrow Reservoir is accessible at all times, as it's an outdoor natural area. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

General access is permitted, but visitors are advised to respect the natural environment. Keep dogs on leads where required and avoid disturbing wildlife. Instagram

Absolutely! It's a perfect destination for a day trip, offering beautiful walks and stunning scenery. Pack a picnic to make the most of your visit. Instagram

Swimming is generally not advised in reservoirs due to safety concerns, cold water temperatures, and potential currents. Stick to designated walking paths. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can walk all around Yarrow Reservoir, with paths offering great views. A popular route is to combine it with Anglezarke Reservoir for a longer, more varied walk. InstagramReddit

Yes, Yarrow Reservoir is a fantastic spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset, or when the overflow is active. The surrounding moors also provide beautiful backdrops. Instagram+1

There are no direct amenities at Yarrow Reservoir itself. You'll find facilities in nearby Rivington village or at The Cabins at Rivington. Instagram

Expect to see various bird species, and if you're lucky, you might spot some local fauna. The surrounding woodlands and moors are rich in biodiversity. Instagram

Some paths are well-maintained, but others can be steep and uneven. The main track from Anglezarke is generally accessible, but check conditions before you go. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Yew Tree Inn is a country pub located conveniently close to Yarrow Reservoir, offering a great spot for a meal after your walk. Instagram

Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are many scenic spots around the reservoir where you can enjoy a packed lunch. Instagram

Rivington village offers several charming pubs and cafes, providing a good selection of food and drink options for visitors. Instagram

Typically, there are no permanent food stalls or vendors directly at Yarrow Reservoir. It's best to bring your own food or visit nearby establishments. Instagram

The Yew Tree Inn is known for offering traditional pub fare, often featuring local produce and a cozy atmosphere. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light. The overflow is also a dramatic subject, especially after rainfall. Instagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions. Instagram

Drone usage is permitted in many areas, but always check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors. Instagram

The overflow dam, the reflections on the water, and the surrounding moorland offer stunning photographic opportunities. The dog head sculpture is also a unique subject. InstagramReddit

The Cabins at Rivington are a popular subject, but always be respectful of private property and guests if photographing them. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yarrow Reservoir offers a wonderful outdoor adventure for families. The well-maintained paths around the reservoir are great for little legs, and the open spaces are perfect for running around. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water's edge, and keep an eye out for the unique dog head sculpture – a fun treasure hunt for kids! Reddit

Consider parking at Anglezarke Reservoir and walking over, as this route is generally accessible and offers beautiful views. While the reservoir itself isn't for swimming, the surrounding nature provides plenty of opportunities for exploration and imaginative play. Ensure children are supervised closely, especially near water and on steeper paths. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Hikers & Nature Lovers

For solo travelers seeking peace and quiet, Yarrow Reservoir is an ideal destination. Weekday visits offer the most serene experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility. The well-marked paths provide a sense of security, while the panoramic views offer a chance for reflection. InstagramReddit

Bring a good book or a journal to make the most of the peaceful atmosphere. The sounds of nature, from flowing water to birdsong, create a perfect backdrop for mindfulness. Remember to inform someone of your hiking plans and carry a fully charged phone. Instagram

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Yarrow Reservoir is a dream location for photographers. The interplay of water, landscape, and sky offers endless creative possibilities. Capture the dramatic overflow, the serene reflections, or the vibrant autumn colors. Instagram+1

Drone pilots will find ample space to capture stunning aerial shots of the reservoir and surrounding moors. The unique dog head sculpture also provides an interesting subject for close-up photography. Consider visiting during the golden hours for the most dramatic lighting. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Yarrow Valley Trails

Yarrow Reservoir is a central point within a network of fantastic walking routes across the West Pennine Moors. Visitors often combine a walk around Yarrow with explorations of nearby Anglezarke Reservoir, Lead Mines Clough, and even Rivington Pike for more challenging hikes. The paths are varied, ranging from well-trodden tracks to more rugged moorland terrain, offering something for every level of hiker. InstagramReddit

Many social media posts highlight the therapeutic nature of these walks, with the sounds of running water and the expansive views contributing to a sense of peace and well-being. The area is particularly beautiful in autumn, with vibrant foliage adding to the scenic charm. Instagram+1

When planning your hike, consider the weather, as conditions on the moors can change rapidly. Wearing appropriate footwear is crucial, as some sections can be muddy or uneven. Bringing a map or using a reliable navigation app is also advisable for longer treks. Reddit

The Engineering Marvels of Yarrow Reservoir

Yarrow Reservoir, though the smallest of the main Rivington reservoirs, showcases impressive engineering, particularly its overflow system. When water levels rise significantly, the overflow channels create dramatic cascades, a sight that has captivated many visitors and photographers. The sound of the water flowing is described as therapeutic and a highlight for many. Instagram

This man-made structure is a testament to historical engineering capabilities, blending functional design with the natural landscape. The dam itself and the surrounding embankments are substantial, designed to manage water resources effectively. Reddit

For those interested in the history and construction of such reservoirs, Yarrow offers a tangible example. It's a reminder of how human ingenuity can shape and interact with the environment, creating essential infrastructure while also forming beautiful natural attractions. Reddit

Accommodation and Stays Near Yarrow Reservoir

For those looking to extend their visit, unique accommodation options are available near Yarrow Reservoir. The Cabins at Rivington offer stylish cabin stays with scenic views overlooking the reservoir and the surrounding Lancashire countryside. These cabins are situated on a family-run farm, providing an immersive nature experience. Instagram

These stays are perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape, with opportunities for walking and exploring right from their doorstep. The proximity to Yarrow Reservoir makes it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. Instagram

Other options include campervan and motorhome pitches, such as those offered by Wilcocks Farm, which is located conveniently close to Yarrow Reservoir, allowing easy access to walks and local pubs like The Yew Tree Inn. Instagram

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