Discover amazing nature at Royd Moor Reservoir
The land around the reservoir is planted with mature native oak trees and lots of wildflowers, making it a nature lover’s retreat all year round. The walk around the reservoir is only 1½ miles long and features a mixture of wide surface tracks and smaller paths which are muddy and riddled with tree roots. If you’re coming to Royd Moor, why not make a day of it and visit Scout Dike and Ingbirchworth too.
Activities
Walks
| Walk | Distance | Difficulty | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royd Moor walk | 1.5 miles | 2 out of 4 |
|
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?
Scout Dike Reservoir
Scout Dike is a charming reservoir with a medium length walk around the perimeter, which is mostly well surfaced.
Ingbirchworth Reservoir
West of Barnsley is Ingbirchworth reservoir, a small body of water with a lot of character.
How to get there
By car
There is on-street parking located on Royd Moor Road, (S36 7RD).
From Penistone
Take the A628 heading West. After 0.7miles, take a sharp right heading into Thurlstone. Head uphill along Towngate and after 0.1miles, bear left onto Royd Moor Road. After 0.8miles, you’ll see a small car park on your right.
By public transport
Unfortunately, there are no public transport links for Royd Moor Reservoir.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Royd Moor Reservoir?
No, you can't swim in Royd Moor 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 Agden Reservoir?
Royd Moor Reservoir has lots of hidden dangers. The water is very cold (even in summer) and cold water shock can kill. Royd Moor 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 Royd Moor Reservoir?
No, it’s not safe for dogs to swim in Royd Moor 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 Royd Moor Reservoir?
No, Royd Moor 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.