Derwent and Howden Reservoir Hike

Nyssa Blake
Jan 4
2 min read

Updated: Mar 7

A scenic walk around Derwent and Howden Reservoir in the Peak District, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape.

Trail Overview

Starting Point: Upper Derwent Visitor Centre
Distance: 16.5 km (10.25 miles)
Duration: Approx. 4.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Well-maintained paths, some gentle inclines

The Route

Honestly, I have to say this was one of my favourite and more calming walks. The paths run along the waters edge giving such a tranquil feeling. Due to this route being quite long, you’ll find that this is a quieter part of Derwent even on the weekend. There’s some slight elevation in parts giving you some lovely views of the surrounding hills and there’s a cute bridge half way round where you can sit and have a picnic. Plus if Derwent Dam is running the day you go, you’ll definitely want to take a moment to take in the site.

Preparing for the Hike

Given the difficulty of this hike, proper preparation is crucial:

Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks
Pack waterproof clothing - Yorkshire weather can be unpredictable
Download the map to your phone or bring a map and compass
Bring a fully charged mobile phone and maybe a portable battery pack

Safety Considerations

While this hike offers incredible views and experiences, it's important to prioritize safety:

Check weather forecasts before setting out
Inform someone of your hiking plans
Stay on marked paths, especially in challenging areas
Be prepared to turn back if conditions become unsafe

Facilities

Parking
Toilets
Refreshments

Best Time to Visit

The route can be walked year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions. Despite it being a busy destination the walk is not crowded. However I would bear in mind that parking can be a challenge so get there early if it's a weekend and if it's a school break, best of luck to you! The pathways are pretty easy and not too muddy or rugged so you should be fine in some basic hiking shoes.

Getting There

Fairholmes Car Park, Fairholmes, Bamford, Hope Valley S33 0AQ

Conclusion

This was definitely one of my favourite hikes in the Peak District. It wasn’t strenuous, just long but very peaceful. If you need to get some headspace and fresh air, I would highly recommend this hike. It’s easy to follow as you always stay next to the water and the paths and roads are clear.

Download file for GPS