
Errwood Reservoir
A serene reservoir in the Peak District, offering scenic walks, historical ruins, and stunning views from nearby Shining Tor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Errwood Reservoir
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene reservoir in the Peak District, offering scenic walks, historical ruins, and stunning views from nearby Shining Tor.
"Beautiful place for walks and beautiful scenery, well worth the trip."
🚗 Free Parking Available
Park near the sailing club (SK17 6GJ) for free, just a short walk to the reservoir.
♻️ Pack Out Your Rubbish
No bins or cafes on site. Please take all your litter with you to keep it beautiful.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Errwood Hall Ruins
Southern end of the reservoir
Explore the atmospheric remnants of a grand Victorian manor, offering a glimpse into the past.
Shining Tor Summit
North of the reservoir
Hike to the highest point in the area for breathtaking panoramic views of the Peak District.
Goyt Valley Trails
Surrounding the reservoir
Wander through diverse landscapes, from woodland paths to open moorland, with varied walking routes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Wildfires
Explore Beyond the Dam
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Free Parking Available
Park near the sailing club (SK17 6GJ) for free, just a short walk to the reservoir.
♻️ Pack Out Your Rubbish
No bins or cafes on site. Please take all your litter with you to keep it beautiful.
👟 Varied Terrain
Expect a mix of road, off-road, and wild paths, from flat to steep. Good walking shoes are a must!
💧 Reservoir Levels
When low, you can see old village remains and artifacts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Free Parking Available
Park near the sailing club (SK17 6GJ) for free, just a short walk to the reservoir.
♻️ Pack Out Your Rubbish
No bins or cafes on site. Please take all your litter with you to keep it beautiful.
👟 Varied Terrain
Expect a mix of road, off-road, and wild paths, from flat to steep. Good walking shoes are a must!
💧 Reservoir Levels
When low, you can see old village remains and artifacts.
🔥 Wildfire Awareness
Be mindful of fire risks, especially in dry conditions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Errwood Reservoir for its beautiful scenery and fantastic walking opportunities, particularly around the reservoir and into the Goyt Valley. The ruins of Errwood Hall are a highlight, and the free parking is a definite plus. Some note the lack of facilities like toilets or cafes, and advise bringing your own provisions.
"A little bit empty at moment but still some great walking around it."
Steve Livesley
"Beautiful place for walks and beautiful scenery. There's are several free parking areas. Take your own food and please take your rubbish back with you. Amazing scenery when driving to and from the reservoir."
Robila C
"Fantastic walk around the reservoir and the surrounding hills and Goyt Valley. Well worth the trip.
The is a mix of road, off road and pure wild terrains to explore along with fairly flat to steep walks (nothing close to a mountain tho!)
The scenes are there to be had."
Daniel Alexander
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Errwood Reservoir is easily accessible by car. The postcode SK17 6GJ will guide you towards the sailing club, where free parking is available along the road.
It's located in the quiet western Peaks, near the Goyt Valley.Public transport options are limited. While buses may serve nearby towns like Buxton, a car is generally recommended for the most convenient access to Errwood Reservoir and its surrounding trails.
The reservoir offers a mix of terrains, including roads, off-road paths, and wilder trails. Ordnance Survey maps are helpful for longer hikes, and many visitors enjoy following routes up to Shining Tor.
Buxton is a nearby market town offering amenities and a good starting point for exploring the Peak District.
Yes, the drive to and from the reservoir offers amazing scenery, making the journey itself part of the experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Errwood Reservoir is free to enter and explore. There are also several free parking areas available.
Errwood Reservoir is open to visitors year-round during daylight hours. Access is generally unrestricted, though specific facilities might have limited hours.
Tickets are not required for Errwood Reservoir as it is a public access area.
Visitors should be mindful of potential wildfire risks, especially during dry periods, and follow any local advisories.
While the reservoir itself is accessible, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular walks include the loop around the reservoir, a hike up to Shining Tor for panoramic views, and exploring the Goyt Valley.
The ruins of Errwood Hall are also a must-see.There are no public toilets or cafes directly at Errwood Reservoir. It's advisable to bring your own food, drinks, and any necessary facilities.
Expect beautiful natural scenery, including the reservoir itself, surrounding hills, woodland, and the ruins of Errwood Hall.
Yes, families can enjoy walks around the reservoir and exploring the ruins. An ice cream van is sometimes available in the car park, which is a treat for kids.
Absolutely! The ruins of Errwood Hall, a former Victorian manor, are a significant historical attraction.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Errwood Reservoir. You'll need to bring your own provisions or travel to nearby towns like Buxton for food options.
Picnicking is a popular activity. There are many scenic spots around the reservoir and in the Goyt Valley perfect for a packed lunch.
Occasionally, an ice cream van is present in the car park, which can be a welcome treat, especially for families.
Buxton offers a range of cafes, pubs, and restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets.
Yes, it's highly recommended to bring plenty of water, especially if you plan on undertaking longer walks, as there are no facilities on-site.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the reservoir, the ruins of Errwood Hall, panoramic views from Shining Tor, and the diverse landscapes of the Goyt Valley.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for landscape photography. Weekday mornings provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or Forestry England, as many natural areas have restrictions to protect wildlife and visitor experience.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details of the ruins or distant hills. A sturdy tripod is beneficial for low-light conditions.
Yes, when the reservoir levels are low, you can capture unique perspectives revealing old village remains and artifacts.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For an added treat, keep an eye out for the ice cream van that sometimes visits the car park. While there are no dedicated play areas, the open spaces and natural environment provide ample opportunity for kids to explore and burn off energy. Remember to bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers will appreciate the varied landscapes, from woodland to open moorland, and the chance to see the reservoir's ecosystem. Be prepared for mixed weather conditions and always carry a map and compass for more extensive explorations.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds and capture unobstructed views. When the reservoir levels are low, unique shots revealing submerged village remnants can be captured. A wide-angle lens is ideal for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture details of the ruins or distant peaks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ruins of Errwood Hall
Many visitors, including families, enjoy discovering the hall's remains as part of their walk. The site is located on the southern side of the reservoir, easily accessible via walking paths. It's a poignant reminder of the past and adds a layer of intrigue to the natural beauty of the reservoir.
Hiking and Walking Routes
The Goyt Valley, which encompasses Errwood Reservoir, provides a diverse network of paths. You can traverse woodland, open moorland, and follow the river. Some trails are well-maintained, while others are more rugged, offering a true sense of adventure. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be mixed, including road, off-road, and wild paths.
Environmental Considerations
Visitors are strongly urged to be mindful of fire risks, especially during dry periods, and to adhere to any local guidance or restrictions. The Peak District National Park is a precious environment, and responsible tourism is key. This includes taking all litter home, as there are no bins or facilities on-site, helping to preserve the natural beauty for everyone.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit