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.
Discover breathtaking views at Swinsty Reservoir
Swinsty Reservoir can be found in the Washburn valley, less than 10 miles north of Otley and west of Harrogate. Along with the adjacent Fewston Reservoir, it is a very popular site for visitors throughout the year. There's plenty of choice for those seeking recreation in the great outdoors; whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll around the well-surfaced reservoir paths or a wander through the nearby fields and woods. Also welcome are cyclists and horse riders, as well as anglers seeking high quality course and fly fishing.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swinsty walk | 3 miles | 1 out of 4 |
|
| Swinsty Beaver Dyke walk | 4.25 miles | 4 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?
Fewston Reservoir
Situated in the charming Washburn valley, sharing an embankment with Swinsty Reservoir, Fewston is popular with walkers and runners. Cyclists and horse-riders can also make use of their own permitted tracks in the surrounding woodlands.
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
Swinsty Moor and Fewston Reservoir car park (LS21 2NP) is at the southern end of the Fewston Reservoir Embankment. Alternative parking is available at Stack Point car park (HG3 1SU), along the eastern edge of Swinsty Reservoir. Please note that both have a 2.2m height barrier.
From Harrogate
Take the A59 heading west. Before you reach Blubberhouses, turn left at the roundabout onto the B6451. Take the second right onto Wydra Lane, which becomes Back Lane and takes you across Fewston Reservoir Embankment. Shortly afterwards you will reach Swinsty Moor and Fewston Reservoir car park.
By public transport
DalesBus services 820 and 821 run to Swinsty 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 Swinsty Reservoir?
No, you can't swim in Swinsty 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 Swinsty Reservoir?
Swinsty Reservoir has lots of hidden dangers. The water is very cold (even in summer) and cold water shock can kill. Swinsty 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 Swinsty Reservoir?
No, it’s not safe for dogs to swim in Swinsty 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 Swinsty Reservoir?
No, Swinsty 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.