Discover the charm of Ryburn
Just to the east of Baitings is Ryburn, another reservoir full of West Yorkshire charm. Park at our free car park (On Swift Place, just off the A58 HX6 4LE) and enjoy a moderate walk with some surfaced and some unsurfaced paths. The walk follows the water’s edge and rambles through stunning woodlands, making it a wonderful day out.
Facilities
Activities
Walks
| Walk | Distance | Difficulty | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rishworth Moor walk | 6 miles | 4 out of 4 |
|
| Ryburn walk | 2.5 miles | 3 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?
Baitings Reservoir
Visit Baitings Reservoir for a wonderful ramble through woodlands and across two dam walls with panoramic views.
Scammonden Reservoir
Scammonden is a haven of peace and tranquility. Enjoy wonderful views from the picnic area and rest stops around the reservoir, observing the sailing club bobbing around.
How to get there
By car
You can use our free car park (HX6 4LD), which is near the reservoir dam wall and is the starting point of the reservoir walking route. To get to here, turn off the A58 just over a mile south west of Ripponden, onto Swift Lane. After about 300m you will reach the bottom of the lane, where the car park is on your left.
By public transport
Rochdale Road Swift Place bus stop is just at the top of Swift Lane, which leads down to the starting point of this walk. Rochdale road Nursery Lane bus stop is on the opposite side of the road if you are travelling in the other direction. Please take care as you walk down Swift lane, as it is not pavemented.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Ryburn Reservoir?
No, you can't swim in Ryburn 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 Ryburn Reservoir?
Ryburn Reservoir has lots of hidden dangers. The water is very cold (even in summer) and cold water shock can kill. Ryburn 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 Ryburn Reservoir?
No, it’s not safe for dogs to swim in Ryburn 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 Ryburn Reservoir?
No, Ryburn 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.