Clowbridge Reservoir
A picturesque reservoir offering scenic walks, historical echoes, and access to challenging hikes in the Lancashire countryside.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Clowbridge Reservoir
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque reservoir offering scenic walks, historical echoes, and access to challenging hikes in the Lancashire countryside.
"Great wide, flat path perfect for bikes or buggies, might be a little tricky with a wheelchair as it is uneven."
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Paths can be uneven, especially off the main circuit. Good walking shoes are key for comfort and safety.
🗺️ Explore Beyond the Loop
Many trails lead from the reservoir into the hills. Consider a longer hike for varied scenery and a good workout.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Clowbridge Reservoir Circuit
Reservoir perimeter
A scenic 3km loop offering tranquil water views and fresh air. Perfect for a relaxed stroll or family outing.
Crown Point Ruins
North of the reservoir
Explore the remnants of historical structures with panoramic views of Pendle Hill and the surrounding landscape.
Singing Ringing Tree
Crown Point
An iconic land art sculpture that creates a unique soundscape in the wind. A must-see for art and nature lovers.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Plan Your Route
Best Times
Insider Tips
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👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Paths can be uneven, especially off the main circuit. Good walking shoes are key for comfort and safety.
🗺️ Explore Beyond the Loop
Many trails lead from the reservoir into the hills. Consider a longer hike for varied scenery and a good workout.
🧺 Picnic Spots Galore
The reservoirs offer beautiful locations for a picnic. Enjoy the views while you refuel.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Adventures
A popular spot for dog walkers, with plenty of space for pups to roam. Keep them on a lead where necessary.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Paths can be uneven, especially off the main circuit. Good walking shoes are key for comfort and safety.
🗺️ Explore Beyond the Loop
Many trails lead from the reservoir into the hills. Consider a longer hike for varied scenery and a good workout.
🧺 Picnic Spots Galore
The reservoirs offer beautiful locations for a picnic. Enjoy the views while you refuel.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Adventures
A popular spot for dog walkers, with plenty of space for pups to roam. Keep them on a lead where necessary.
🚗 Parking Availability
Car park available off the A682, including disabled parking.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Clowbridge Reservoir for its beautiful scenery and excellent walking opportunities, with the circular path being a particular highlight for families and dog walkers. While some find the terrain a bit uneven for prams, the abundance of surrounding trails offers more challenging hikes for experienced walkers. The historical context of the submerged village adds an intriguing layer to the experience.
"Great wide, flat path perfect for bikes or buggies, might be a little tricky with a wheelchair as it is uneven. We did the circular route which our 3year old managed with a couple of stops on the benches (not many benches but you could perch on a wall)"
Rebecca Cochrane
"Great for a short family walk around the reservoir or if you looking for a little more their is plenty of trails going up all angles of the surrounding hills. My golden labradors favourite place for his daily walk."
Craig McEvoy
"Lovely area for walking. There are good paths round the reservoir plus others that lead onto the moors. Car park available Inc disabled parking off the A 682. Leave the car & use the regular bus service ( Burnley-Manchester)"
Peter Carman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Clowbridge Reservoir is accessible by car, with parking available off the A682. For those using public transport, regular bus services run between Burnley and Manchester, with stops near the reservoir.
Yes, regular bus services operate between Burnley and Manchester, offering a convenient way to reach the area if you prefer not to drive.
Absolutely! The wide, flat paths around the reservoir are great for cycling, making it an enjoyable route for bike enthusiasts.
The main circular path is wide and flat, but can be uneven in places, making it a bit tricky for wheelchairs. Some sections might be challenging.
The reservoir is located near Burnley and Rossendale in Lancashire, offering access to amenities and further exploration opportunities. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Clowbridge Reservoir is a public access area, and there is no entrance fee to visit or walk around.
As an outdoor natural area, Clowbridge Reservoir is accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No, tickets are not required for Clowbridge Reservoir as it is a free public space.
General public access is permitted. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and follow any posted signage.
There isn't a dedicated visitor center at Clowbridge Reservoir. Information and facilities are limited to what's available in the surrounding areas.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The 3km circular walk around the reservoir is highly recommended for its scenic views and accessibility. For more challenging hikes, explore the trails leading to Crown Point Ruins or the Singing Ringing Tree.
The circular walk around the reservoir typically takes about 1 hour, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views. Longer hikes will naturally take more time.
Yes, the reservoir itself offers lovely water views, and trails leading to Crown Point provide expansive vistas of Pendle Hill and East Lancashire.
Definitely! The reservoir offers beautiful reflections, especially at sunrise and sunset. The surrounding landscapes and the Singing Ringing Tree are also popular subjects.
The main path is wide and relatively flat, suitable for prams and bikes. However, many connecting trails are uneven, rocky, and can be muddy, especially after rain.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no cafes or restaurants directly at Clowbridge Reservoir. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks or visit nearby towns like Burnley for dining options.
Yes, Clowbridge Reservoir is an excellent spot for picnics. There are many scenic locations around the reservoir to enjoy your meal.
The nearest towns, Burnley and Rossendale, offer a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants. You can also find local shops for picnic supplies.
Barbecuing is generally not permitted in public reservoir areas to prevent fire hazards and protect the environment. It's best to check local regulations or stick to picnics.
Burnley offers a diverse range of dining options, from traditional pubs and cafes to international cuisine, catering to various tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
The reservoir itself offers beautiful reflections, especially during sunrise and sunset. The paths winding around the water and the views from higher ground towards Pendle Hill are also very photogenic.
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provide the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Overcast days can also offer soft, diffused light perfect for capturing the moody atmosphere.
Drone usage regulations can vary. While some videos show drone footage, it's crucial to check current local bylaws and aviation authority guidelines before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and reservoir views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or distant features. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light or long-exposure shots.
Beyond the reservoir's natural beauty, consider the historical Crown Point Ruins and the unique Singing Ringing Tree sculpture for distinctive photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to make the most of the scenic surroundings, and consider bringing a ball or frisbee for some playtime. For slightly older children, exploring some of the gentler trails leading into the hills can add an element of adventure. Remember to dress children in layers and ensure they have appropriate footwear.
🚶♀️ Solo Walkers & Hikers
If you're looking for a more challenging experience, the numerous trails leading into the surrounding hills provide ample opportunity for longer hikes and exploration. Many solo walkers appreciate the scenic beauty and the opportunity to connect with nature. The Rossendale Way passes through the area, offering well-marked paths for extended treks. Always inform someone of your hiking plans and carry essentials like water, snacks, and a map or GPS device.
🐶 Dog Owners
The circular path is great for a leisurely stroll, and the surrounding hills offer more adventurous routes for energetic dogs. While dogs are welcome, it's important to keep them under control, especially near the water and around other visitors. Be mindful of wildlife and other walkers. Always bring water for your dog and be prepared to clean up after them.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the History of Clowbridge Reservoir
This history adds a layer of depth to the landscape, reminding visitors of the human stories intertwined with the natural beauty. While the physical remnants are gone, the reservoir serves as a memorial to the lost community, offering a unique perspective for those who explore its surroundings.
Understanding this past can enhance the visitor experience, encouraging reflection on how landscapes evolve and communities change over time. It transforms a simple walk into a journey through local history.
Walking Trails and Hiking Opportunities
For those seeking more adventure, numerous trails branch off from the reservoir and ascend into the surrounding hills. These routes offer more challenging terrain, rewarding hikers with stunning panoramic views of Pendle Hill and the wider Lancashire landscape. Popular destinations include the Crown Point Ruins and the Singing Ringing Tree, which can be incorporated into longer circular walks.
+1Many of these extended routes are part of the Rossendale Way, a well-established long-distance path, ensuring clear signage for much of the journey. Hikers should be prepared for varied conditions, including potentially muddy and rocky paths, especially after rainfall.
Photography at Clowbridge Reservoir
Beyond the reservoir itself, the surrounding East Lancashire countryside offers expansive vistas. The Crown Point Ruins and the Singing Ringing Tree are iconic landmarks that add unique elements to photographs. Drone enthusiasts have captured impressive aerial views, showcasing the reservoir's scale and its integration with the landscape.
+1When planning your photography session, consider the ever-changing Lancashire weather. While sunny days offer bright landscapes, overcast conditions can create a moody, dramatic atmosphere perfect for capturing the rugged beauty of the area.
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