Eyebrook Reservoir
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Eyebrook Reservoir

4.5
Β·109 reviewsΒ·, United Kingdom

A tranquil reservoir offering scenic walks, abundant birdlife, and a poignant connection to the Dambusters' WWII history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Peak bird activity

CrowdLow
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Eyebrook Reservoir

Eyebrook Reservoir

Best Time

Spring mornings

Peak bird activity

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil reservoir offering scenic walks, abundant birdlife, and a poignant connection to the Dambusters' WWII history.

4.5
(109 reviews)

"Beautifully peaceful, lovely to watch all the birds."

Vertical photo
TIP

πŸš— Safe Parking is Key

Parking is limited; prioritize safety and arrive early or be prepared for a short walk.

πŸ”­ Bring Binoculars!

Enhance your birdwatching experience with binoculars or a scope for better wildlife viewing.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.5 Β· 109 reviews

Type

Natural Feature

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Birdwatching Paradise

Birdwatching Paradise

Shoreline

Spot diverse birdlife, including Ospreys and Wood Sandpipers, in this haven for avian enthusiasts.

Dambusters Practice Site

Dambusters Practice Site

Reservoir surface

Imagine the historic Dambusters' WWII practice raids on this very water.

Scenic Shoreline Walks

Scenic Shoreline Walks

Footpath around the reservoir

Enjoy leisurely strolls amidst lush countryside and tranquil waters.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

Eyebrook Reservoir offers a peaceful escape with stunning natural beauty. It's ideal for walking and birdwatching, but don't expect extensive amenities. Parking can be limited, so arrive early or be prepared for a short walk.

A Glimpse into History

Beyond its natural charm, Eyebrook Reservoir holds historical significance as a practice site for the Dambusters during WWII. Consider researching this aspect before your visit to enhance your appreciation of the area.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Peak bird activity
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden hour beauty
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Vibrant foliage
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

My 140th species of the yearπŸ₯³ On the 3rd August, I visited Eyebrook Reservoir in hopes of seeing my first Wood Sandpiper of the year. After standing out in some horrendous rain, with incredibly poor visibility for most of my visit, I was finally able to see it! βœ… Wood Sandpiper πŸ“Έ @hawke.nature Endurance ED 60mm scope and phone adapter #birding #birdlist #birds #birdwatching #nature #woodsand...
aliciasbirding
51 likes β€’ 554 views

πŸš— Safe Parking is Key

Parking is limited; prioritize safety and arrive early or be prepared for a short walk. Reddit

πŸ”­ Bring Binoculars!

Enhance your birdwatching experience with binoculars or a scope for better wildlife viewing. Reddit

27 Feb. The #RAF #617Squadron, commonly known #TheDambusters practices their planned raids against German dams during #WWII on the#EyebrookReservoir in 1943 #RutlandRound - Trip 4 #EnglishCountryside
afoxinwhippetcountry
5 likes β€’ 360 views
Happens to the best of us! In this episode of Reservoir Masterclass, Tom Bird bags up in difficult conditions fishing dry flies at Eyebrook Reservoir for Rainbow Trout. We follow Tom as he reveals his methodology for approaching a session, fly selection, retrieving patterns and understanding of conditions. When a big pod of feeding Trout appear on the surface in a strange display of behaviour, we...
fishingtv
20 likes β€’ 1.5K views

πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈ Comfortable Walking Shoes

The shoreline path is perfect for a stroll, so wear comfy shoes. Instagram+1

🎣 Fly Fishing Hotspot

Anglers can enjoy fly fishing for rainbow trout, especially with dry flies. Instagram+1

A wonderful evening spent birding at Eyebrook Reservoir, Rutland, with an Osprey catching a fish! 33 species seen - and a lovely fox sighting too!
casualbirderpodcast
21 likes β€’ 293 views

Tips

from all over the internet

πŸš— Safe Parking is Key

Parking is limited; prioritize safety and arrive early or be prepared for a short walk. Reddit

πŸ”­ Bring Binoculars!

Enhance your birdwatching experience with binoculars or a scope for better wildlife viewing. Reddit

πŸšΆβ€β™€οΈ Comfortable Walking Shoes

The shoreline path is perfect for a stroll, so wear comfy shoes. Instagram+1

🎣 Fly Fishing Hotspot

Anglers can enjoy fly fishing for rainbow trout, especially with dry flies. Instagram+1

πŸ¦‹ Damselfly Delight

Keep an eye out for beautiful blue damselflies, especially near grassy verges. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(109 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Eyebrook Reservoir for its profound tranquility and picturesque natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for peaceful walks and birdwatching. While some note the limited amenities and parking, the serene atmosphere and historical significance as a Dambusters practice site are highlighted as major draws.

"Very tranquil and beautiful body of water surrounded by lush countryside and also site of one of the main practice areas for the Dambusters during WWII"

Brian Lynch

"Lovely a peaceful, absolutely nothing to do apart from walk or fish.. pure bliss"

Ray Holmes

"Brilliant"

Abu Musa Al Ashari

What People Like

Beautiful and peaceful
Great for birdwatching
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Few amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

πŸš‡ πŸ—ΊοΈ Getting There

Eyebrook Reservoir is located in Stoke Dry, near Rutland Water. While public transport options are limited, driving is the most convenient way to access it. Parking is available but can be limited, especially during peak times. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available, but it is often limited. Visitors are advised to park safely and be prepared for a potential short walk to the reservoir if the main spots are full. Reddit

Cycling is a great way to explore the surrounding countryside. While there aren't dedicated cycle paths directly to the reservoir, you can incorporate it into a longer cycling route. Instagram

Public transport options to Eyebrook Reservoir are scarce. It's best to plan your visit with a car or consider it as part of a larger cycling or walking tour of the area.

The nearest village is Stoke Dry, and it's also in close proximity to Rutland Water, a larger and more developed recreational area.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no admission fees or tickets required to visit Eyebrook Reservoir for general access and walking. Reddit

Eyebrook Reservoir is generally accessible during daylight hours for walking and enjoying the scenery. There are no specific official opening or closing times posted for general public access. Instagram

Yes, fishing at Eyebrook Reservoir requires a permit. You can find information on booking and permits through local fishing associations or the reservoir's management. Instagram

Dogs are generally welcome at Eyebrook Reservoir, but it's always a good idea to keep them on a lead, especially around wildlife and other visitors. Instagram

Facilities are minimal at Eyebrook Reservoir. You won't find cafes or public toilets directly on-site. It's advisable to come prepared with your own refreshments and essentials. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The primary activities are walking along the shoreline, birdwatching, and photography. Anglers can also enjoy fly fishing for trout. Instagram+3

Absolutely! Eyebrook Reservoir is a renowned spot for birdwatching, with sightings of Ospreys, Wood Sandpipers, and various other species. Instagram+1

Swimming is generally not permitted in Eyebrook Reservoir due to safety regulations and its use as a water source. Instagram

The shoreline path is relatively flat and easy, making it suitable for most walkers. Some sections might be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Instagram

Eyebrook Reservoir was used by the RAF's 617 Squadron, the 'Dambusters,' for practice raids during World War II. Instagram

πŸ“Έ πŸ“Έ Photography

The entire shoreline offers beautiful vistas. Look for opportunities to capture wildlife, reflections on the water, and the surrounding countryside, especially during sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1

You can photograph a variety of birds, including Ospreys and sandpipers, as well as damselflies and potentially other small mammals. Instagram+2

While wildlife is present, maintaining a respectful distance is crucial. Using a telephoto lens will help you capture clear shots without disturbing the animals. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating a golden hour effect. These times also often coincide with increased wildlife activity. Instagram

Specific drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check local bylaws and guidelines before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.

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