Take in moorland views at Withens Clough Reservoir
6 miles south of Hebden Bridge is Withens Clough reservoir sitting beneath the domineering Stoodley Pike monument. Park at our free car park (on Withens New Road, HX7 5TD) for a level walk along some surfaced and some unsurfaced paths. There are no steps or stiles but the walk from the car park to the start of the walk is a mildly steep road. The walk itself is well rewarded with views of open moorland and the wonderful Stoodley Pike monument. Be sure to bring warm clothes as the area is open to the elements!
Facilities
Activities
Walks
| Walk | Distance | Difficulty | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Withens Clough walk | 1.5 miles | 2 out of 4 |
|
| Withens Clough & Stoodley Pike walk | 4.5 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
You can use our free car park, which is on Rudd Lane (HX7 5TD), 300 metres before the reservoir embankment on the left. Please note, there is a 1.8 metre height barrier.
From Mytholmroyd
Take the B6138 (Cragg Road) which follows Cragg Brook heading south towards Cragg Vale. After 2 miles, when you reach Cragg Vale, turn right onto Church Bank Lane which becomes Rudd Lane. In about ¼ mile, turn right to stay on Rudd Lane for another mile, until you arrive at Withens Clough car park on the left.
By public transport
Unfortunately there is no public transport currently available to Withens Clough Reservoir.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Withens Clough Reservoir?
No, you can't swim in Withens Clough 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 Withens Clough Reservoir?
Withens Clough Reservoir has lots of hidden dangers. The water is very cold (even in summer) and cold water shock can kill. Withens Clough 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 Withens Clough Reservoir?
No, it’s not safe for dogs to swim in Withens Clough 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 Withens Clough Reservoir?
No, Withens Clough 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.