Fewston Reservoir
A picturesque Yorkshire reservoir offering scenic walking trails, abundant wildlife, and a peaceful escape for nature lovers and their dogs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Fewston Reservoir
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque Yorkshire reservoir offering scenic walking trails, abundant wildlife, and a peaceful escape for nature lovers and their dogs.
"A great spot for a leisurely walk with lovely views and plentiful spots for a picnic."
🚶♀️ Embrace the Loop
The 10.6km circular trail is a must-do! You can shorten it by focusing on just one reservoir if needed. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog Paradise
Most of the path is great for off-leash dogs, but keep them leashed near sheep. :dog:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Reservoir Loop
Entire reservoir perimeter
A scenic 10k circular trail offering stunning water views and diverse landscapes. Perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling.
Low Water Levels
Reservoir basin
Witness the dramatic reveal of the reservoir bed and unique formations when water levels are low. A fascinating sight!
Woodland Trails
Surrounding woodlands
Explore charming paths through forests that frame the reservoir, offering shaded routes and a different perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Dog-Friendly Adventures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Embrace the Loop
The 10.6km circular trail is a must-do! You can shorten it by focusing on just one reservoir if needed. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog Paradise
Most of the path is great for off-leash dogs, but keep them leashed near sheep. :dog:
☀️ Sun Protection
Even on cloudy days, the Yorkshire sun can be strong. Pack sunscreen and a hat! :sunwithface:
🧺 Picnic Spots
While Fewston has minimal facilities, Swinsty Reservoir nearby offers picnic areas and toilets. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Embrace the Loop
The 10.6km circular trail is a must-do! You can shorten it by focusing on just one reservoir if needed. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog Paradise
Most of the path is great for off-leash dogs, but keep them leashed near sheep. :dog:
☀️ Sun Protection
Even on cloudy days, the Yorkshire sun can be strong. Pack sunscreen and a hat! :sunwithface:
🧺 Picnic Spots
While Fewston has minimal facilities, Swinsty Reservoir nearby offers picnic areas and toilets. :sandwich:
📸 Capture Reflections
Calm mornings offer stunning mirrored reflections of trees. Early light is magical. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Fewston Reservoir for its beautiful scenery and excellent walking trails, particularly the accessible loop. It's a highly dog-friendly location, offering ample space for pets to explore. While facilities are minimal, the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views make it a worthwhile destination for a day out.
"Fascinating place to visit at the moment as the water is so low. Looks quite different. Helped that it was a beautiful sunny morning. Love how the path goes all the way around. (parts of which have been recently restored to very high standards)
Dog friendly - we like it because our dog can be off lead most of the way round (I do put her on round on one section towards the south west part between blubberhouses and beecroft moor plantation because there are sheep in the fields there."
Matt Watson-Power
"Visited on a bank holiday Monday, nice and quiet, toilets and on site icecream vendors. There are plenty of benches or grassy areas for picnics. Plenty of parking. Easy, medium or long walks, wheel/push chair accessible paths are handy."
Damian Gale
"Beautiful walk, did it by accident, we meant to do swinsty as shorter but my 90 year old mum managed the 4.5 miles"
Bev Brown
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fewston Reservoir is accessible by car from Leeds, taking approximately 45-60 minutes. Public transport options are limited, so driving is recommended. Parking is available on-site but is chargeable.
Yes, Fewston Reservoir is well-signposted, especially when coming from nearby towns like Harrogate or Otley. GPS navigation is also reliable.
Cycling is a popular way to explore the area. The reservoir loop and surrounding country lanes offer scenic routes for cyclists.
There is dedicated parking available, but it is chargeable. The parking areas can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays.
Public transport is limited. While buses may run to nearby villages, a car is generally the most convenient way to reach Fewston Reservoir.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access Fewston Reservoir itself. However, parking is chargeable.
Fewston Reservoir is open to the public year-round during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times for access to the walking paths.
No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary as there is no admission fee. Parking is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Generally, there are no major restrictions, but visitors are asked to respect the environment, keep dogs under control, and take litter home.
Fewston Reservoir has minimal facilities. Toilets and picnic areas are more readily available at the nearby Swinsty Reservoir.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most popular route is the approximately 10.6km circular walk that encompasses the entire reservoir. It's a relatively easy trail suitable for most fitness levels. +1
Yes, Fewston Reservoir is very family-friendly. The easy trails, open spaces, and opportunities for dogs make it a great outing for kids.
While some visitors, particularly with dogs, enjoy swimming, it's important to be aware of water safety. The water quality can vary, and it's not an officially designated swimming area.
You can often spot various bird species, including waterfowl. Keep an eye out for sheep grazing in the surrounding fields.
Parts of the path around Fewston Reservoir are accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs, offering a smoother experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer mist and soft light, perfect for atmospheric shots. Autumn afternoons provide warm tones and long shadows, ideal for capturing vibrant colors.
The reservoir itself, especially with reflections on calm water, is a prime subject. The surrounding woodlands and the reveal of the reservoir bed during low water levels are also highly photogenic. 
Drone usage is permitted in some areas, but always check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors. Some creators have captured stunning aerial footage.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Consider a polarizing filter for enhancing reflections. :camerawithflash:
Weather can be a factor, with wind and rain creating dramatic conditions. Low water levels can also present unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While Fewston itself has limited facilities, a short walk to Swinsty Reservoir provides picnic areas and toilets, making it convenient for families planning a longer stay. The opportunity for dogs to be off-leash in many areas is also a big plus for families with furry members.
🐶 Dog Owners
🏃♀️ Runners & Fitness Enthusiasts
+1 The scenic surroundings provide an inspiring backdrop for your workout.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Reservoir Trails
For those seeking shorter excursions, the trail can be easily adapted. You can opt to walk just one side of the reservoir or combine it with a visit to the adjacent Swinsty Reservoir for a longer adventure. The terrain is mostly flat, making it accessible for a wide range of fitness levels, and some sections are suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Beyond the main loop, the surrounding woodlands offer additional exploratory paths. These trails can provide a more intimate connection with nature, especially during autumn when the foliage is at its most vibrant.
+1 Remember to wear comfortable footwear, as some sections might be uneven or muddy, particularly after rain. Fewston Reservoir: A Dog Lover's Delight
However, it's crucial to be aware of the local environment. The presence of sheep grazing in adjacent fields means that dogs should be kept on a lead in specific areas to prevent disturbance or potential conflict. Responsible pet ownership, including carrying and disposing of dog waste properly, is essential to maintain the pristine condition of the reservoir and its surroundings.
Beyond the off-leash opportunities, the reservoir's natural setting provides a stimulating environment for dogs, with opportunities for swimming (though caution is advised regarding water safety and quality) and plenty of scents to explore.
Photography Opportunities at Fewston Reservoir
During autumn, the reservoir transforms into a canvas of warm colors. The woodlands bordering the water become ablaze with reds, oranges, and yellows, providing a vibrant backdrop. Late afternoons during this season can offer golden hour light that bathes the landscape in a warm glow, creating dramatic shadows and enhancing the rich hues.
+1When water levels are low, the reservoir reveals its exposed bed, showcasing unique geological formations and textures that can be fascinating to photograph. Aerial photography also offers a unique perspective, with drone footage highlighting the vastness and intricate patterns of the reservoir and its landscape.
Remember to check weather conditions, as dramatic skies and even rain can lead to incredibly moody and compelling shots. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit