Essential maintenance which may affect your visit
We'll be closing the footpaths periodically while we work but we'll try to reopen it for weekends and school holidays if we can.
The Blubberhouses car park will be closed while we work, but Swinsty Moor and Stack point car parks will be open.
Car parking charges
We’re trialing car parking charges at this reservoir from 22 January. All funds will be invested into countryside management, biodiversity projects and our brand new Ranger Team.
Enjoy a gentle walk, run or ride around Fewston Reservoir
Fewston is great for walkers and runners and cyclists and horse-riders can also make use of their own permitted tracks in the surrounding woodlands. Make use of the accessible toilets at Swinsty Moor car park with accessible parking here and at Blubberhouses car park. There are no steps, stiles or gates and the reservoir features wide, well surfaced paths with only a few moderate inclines.
Facilities
Activities
Parking charges
| Time | Charge |
|---|---|
| 1 hour | £1 |
| 2 hours | £2 |
| 6 hours | £3 |
| All day | £5 |
| Annual permit | £30 |
| Annual Blue Badge permit | Free |
Please pay using our on-site ticket machines (card only), RingGo app or apply for a permit online.
Walks
| Walk | Distance | Difficulty | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fewston walk | 4 miles | 1 out of 4 |
|
| Fewston & Beecroft walk | 10 miles | 3 out of 4 |
|
| Fewston & Timble walk | 6.2 miles | 3 out of 4 |
|
Fishing
The Washburn Valley Fishery offers exceptionally high quality fly and coarse fishing in a stunning rural setting.
Visitor information
To keep everyone happy and safe, please:
- follow government guidance
- don’t swim
- take your litter home
- stick to the path
- keep your dog on a lead
- clean up after your dog
- don’t light fires or BBQs.
Make a day of it
While you're here, why not visit a nearby reservoir?
Swinsty Reservoir
Swinsty sits right next to Fewston and offers a great way to increase the length of your walk around Fewston.
Thruscross Reservoir
Thruscross is the highest reservoir in the charming Washburn Valley feeding water into Fewston, Swinsty and Lindley Wood reservoirs. With its altitude comes stunning views of the valley and surrounding moorland.
How to get there
By car
You can park at the Swinsty Moor car park (LS21 2NP) at the southern end of the Fewston Reservoir Embankment. Please note that there is a 2.2m height barrier. Alternative parking is available at Blubberhouses car park (LS21 2NY) where there is a 2.1m height barrier across the entrance to the car park.
From Harrogate
Head North on the A61 Ripon Road towards Ripley. Shortly after leaving Harrogate, take the A59 at the roundabout heading towards Skipton. Follow the A59 for 8 miles. Fewston Reservoir car park is on your left heading towards Skipton.
By public transport
DalesBus services 820 and 821 run to Fewston every hour on summer Sundays and bank holidays from Otley and links from Keighley, Shipley, and Guiseley.
More things to do near Harrogate
Whether you fancy a gentle stroll around a reservoir, a challenging hike, a bike ride with the family, a bit of pony trekking or an afternoon of fishing, there's plenty to do around Harrogate.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Fewston Reservoir?
No, you can't swim in Fewston Reservoir. Reservoirs are really dangerous places and have lots of dangers hidden under the surface. We don't allow anyone to swim in our reservoirs, even if you’re a great swimmer!
Why can’t you swim in Fewston Reservoir?
Fewston Reservoir has lots of hidden dangers. The water is very cold (even in summer) and cold water shock can kill. Fewston Reservoir supplies water to be treated, so there's machinery and strong currents under the water. There may also be blue-green algae, which causes rashes and severe illnesses.
Can dogs swim in Fewston Reservoir?
No, it’s not safe for dogs to swim in Fewston Reservoir and they shouldn’t drink the water. Blue-green algae can form on the surface, which is poisonous and can kill them. There’s also dangerous machinery and strong currents under the water.
Is wild swimming allowed in Fewston Reservoir?
No, Fewston Reservoir is dangerous. Reservoirs aren't the same as natural lakes, they’re man-made and have large machinery that’s working 24/7 just below the surface. They’re also very cold, have strong currents and might have blue-green algae which causes rashes and severe illness.