Experience stunning scenery at Widdop and Gorple Reservoirs
Nestled in Widdop Valley and surrounded by dramatic rocky crags and exposed open moorland, this reservoir provides a peaceful sense of remoteness. Yorkshire Water’s free car park is situated right next to the path up to the waterside, just off Ridehalgh Lane.
Walkers seeking to get away from it all and explore this beautiful upland area can follow the path which encircles the reservoir or extend the route by climbing onto Shuttleworth Moor and down the other side to visit Gorple Upper and Gorple Lower Reservoirs. It is well worth the short ascent to be rewarded with a series of rippled rocky outcrops and the spectacular vistas beyond. Free parking is available at our car park on Widdop Road.
When the sun shines, visitors can enjoy the bountiful supply of wildlife the Site of Special Scientific Interest moorland supports. Please keep dogs under close control and stick to the path network at all times to help preserve this habitat for everyone to enjoy.
Facilities
Activities
Walks
| Walk | Distance | Difficulty | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Widdop and Gorple walk | 4 miles | 4 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.
How to get there
By car
There's a free car park at Widdop Reservoir which can be found on Widdop Rd, HX7 7AZ and doesn’t have a height barrier.
*Widdop Reservoir carpark is closed until approx November whilst we are working in the spillway. The footpath along the crest road will also be closed with a signed diversion in place.*
From Hebden Bridge
Take the A646 heading towards Burnley. After 0.7miles, keep an eye out for a turning area on your left to turn around and head back towards Hebden Bridge on the A646. After 0.3miles take Heptonstall Road, heading towards Heptonstall. After 2 miles turn right onto Widdop road heading towards Widdop. Follow this road for 10 miles when the car park will appear on your right.
By public transport
Unfortunately there is no public transport currently available to this Reservoir.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Widdop Reservoir?
No, you can't swim in Widdop 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 Widdop Reservoir?
Widdop Reservoir has lots of hidden dangers. The water is very cold (even in summer) and cold water shock can kill. Widdop 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 Widdop Reservoir?
No, it’s not safe for dogs to swim in Widdop 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 Widdop Reservoir?
No, Widdop 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.
Can you swim in Gorple Reservoir?
No, you can't swim in Gorple 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 Gorple Reservoir?
Gorple Reservoir has lots of hidden dangers. The water is very cold (even in summer) and cold water shock can kill. Gorple 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 Gorple Reservoir?
No, it’s not safe for dogs to swim in Gorple 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 Gorple Reservoir?
No, Gorple 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.