Essential maintenance which may affect your visit
We'll be closing the footpaths periodically while we work but we'll try to reopen it for weekends and school holidays if we can.
The Blubberhouses car park will be closed while we work, but Swinsty Moor and Stack point car parks will be open.
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 the beauty of Fewston Reservoir
A relatively gentle walk, this route encircles the beautiful Fewston Reservoir in the charming Washburn Valley. Crossing over Fewston embankment, you’re spoilt for choice as you’re presented with spectacular views over Fewston Reservoir and down the valley across Swinsty Reservoir.
Facilities
Useful Downloads
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.
Details
Location
Less than 10 miles west of Harrogate and north of Otley, just off the A59
Difficulty
1 out of 4
Route length
4 miles
Walking time
2 hours
Terrain & gradient
Mostly wide and well surfaced, however there are some short sections of path with fairly steep gradients and larger stones (over 30mm). there are no steps, stiles or gates on this route.
How to get there
By car
This route starts at our Swinsty Moor car park (LS21 2NP) at the southern end of the Fewston Reservoir Embankment. Please note that there is a 2.2m height barrier. Alternative parking is available at Blubberhouses car park (LS21 2NY) where there is a 2.1m height barrier across the entrance to the car park.
From Harrogate
head North on the A61 Ripon Road towards Ripley. Shortly after leaving Harrogate, take the A59 at the roundabout heading towards Skipton. Follow the A59 for 8 miles. Fewston Reservoir car park is on your left heading towards Skipton.
By public transport
DalesBus services 820 and 821 run to Fewston every hour on summer Sundays and bank holidays from Otley and links from Keighley, Shipley, and Guiseley.
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 try another walk?
| Walk | Distance | Difficulty | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 miles | 3 out of 4 |
|
|
| 6.2 miles | 3 out of 4 |
|
|
| 3 miles | 1 out of 4 |
|
|
| 4.25 miles | 4 out of 4 |
|
|
| 4.5 miles | 3 out of 4 |
|
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.
