Scout Dike Reservoir - Image 1
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Scout Dike Reservoir

4.6
·262 reviews·Penistone, United Kingdom

A picturesque reservoir offering scenic walks, abundant wildlife, and family-friendly paths. Perfect for a refreshing outdoor escape.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Enjoy peaceful walks before crowds

CrowdLow
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Scout Dike Reservoir - Image 1

Scout Dike Reservoir

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Enjoy peaceful walks before crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque reservoir offering scenic walks, abundant wildlife, and family-friendly paths. Perfect for a refreshing outdoor escape.

4.6
(262 reviews)

"A circular walk that has everything: massive views, beautiful meadows, great for birding, easy paths."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Your Own Drinks

There are no toilets or shops on-site, so pack plenty of water and snacks for your visit. :water_wave:

Dog-Friendly Paths

The pathways are well-maintained and suitable for dogs, with many visitors enjoying off-lead walks. 🐕

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 262 reviews

Type

Hiking Area

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Full Reservoir Circuit

Full Reservoir Circuit

Around the entire reservoir

Embark on a scenic 3-mile walk offering diverse landscapes, from open meadows to wooded areas.

Wildlife Spotting

Wildlife Spotting

Various points around the reservoir

Keep an eye out for active fish leaping and a variety of birdlife, especially in the early afternoon.

Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

Highest points of the walk

On clear days, the elevated spots offer rewarding, expansive views of the surrounding countryside.

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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for Your Reservoir Adventure

Scout Dike Reservoir offers a refreshing escape with well-maintained paths suitable for all ages and pets. While parking is available, consider arriving early, especially on weekends, as it can get busy. Remember to bring your own drinks and snacks, as facilities are limited.

Best Footwear and Gear

The pathways around Scout Dike Reservoir are generally good, making it accessible for prams and children. However, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended for a more enjoyable experience, especially if you plan to complete the full circuit. Binoculars are a great addition for wildlife spotting.

Best Times

When
Weekend mornings
Why
Enjoy peaceful walks before crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Less busy, good for wildlife
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden hour light, fewer people
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍 Scout Dike Reservoir, Barnsley Czy wiecie, że na stronach internetowych angielskich dostawców wody np. - Yorkshire Water - Severn Trent Water oprócz rachunku za wodę znajdziecie propozycje szlaków spacerowych? My bardzo lubimy takie spacery w otoczeniu wody, gdy nie jesteśmy w górach to właśnie takie miejsca wybieramy a niedzielny spacer. Bezpłatny parking przy Scout Dike Reservoir Hudde...
podrozelewastrona
8 likes • 2.1K views

Bring Your Own Drinks

There are no toilets or shops on-site, so pack plenty of water and snacks for your visit. :water_wave:

Dog-Friendly Paths

The pathways are well-maintained and suitable for dogs, with many visitors enjoying off-lead walks. 🐕

A gorgeous 3 miles walk round Scout Dike Reservoir, finished off with a milkshake and icecream at @milkfromthehills 🐮🍦🐾 - So grateful to be able to enjoy the long bank holiday weekend with our boy - off lead, swimming, experiencing new places and being an all round good boy 🥹 as always a huge shout out to @bearbasicscanineacademy for making it possible!! - And if you haven’t been to Milk from the...
archiesadverntures_sb
12 likes • 289 views
📌 Thurlstone and Scout Dike reservoir - South Yorkshire - November 23 #girlswhohike #hikinggirls #solohiker #thisgirlcan #ukhikers #shehikes #getoutside #peakdistrict #dogwalks #reservoirwalks #yorkshiredales #lakedistrict #hikersofinstagram #dogsonadventures #cockapoo #reservoir #reservoirwalks #hikingtrips #dogwalking
walk_with_chloe
32 likes • 158 views

Binoculars for Birding

Enhance your wildlife viewing experience by bringing binoculars to spot birds and other fauna. :binoculars:

Check Water Company Websites

Yorkshire Water and Severn Trent Water offer walking route suggestions on their sites. 💻

Can you spot my @pawsomepawsboutique cycle short tan line?😂 We had a lush walk around Scout Dike Reservoir yesterday just me and the ladies, and I was really proud of them! Although admittedly I accidentally bonked Goose on the head with my phone because she tried to eat the caterpillar while I was recording him - that wasn’t ideal🙈 It’s nice sometimes to just do a simple flat circular walk tha...
gooseberry_cocker
85 likes • 991 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Your Own Drinks

There are no toilets or shops on-site, so pack plenty of water and snacks for your visit. :water_wave:

Dog-Friendly Paths

The pathways are well-maintained and suitable for dogs, with many visitors enjoying off-lead walks. 🐕

Binoculars for Birding

Enhance your wildlife viewing experience by bringing binoculars to spot birds and other fauna. :binoculars:

Check Water Company Websites

Yorkshire Water and Severn Trent Water offer walking route suggestions on their sites. 💻

Windy Conditions Possible

Be prepared for windy weather, especially when walking around the open reservoir. :windblowingface:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(262 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Scout Dike Reservoir is a highly recommended spot for its beautiful scenery and accessible walking routes, perfect for families and dog owners. Visitors appreciate the natural beauty, wildlife spotting opportunities, and the well-maintained paths. However, the lack of on-site facilities like toilets is a recurring point of consideration.

"It's a really interesting place. I think in terms of flora, fauna, and wildlife some research could help. A lot to see.
You can walk all the way around, the pathways are good, suitable for dogs, children and prams.
I don't think there are any toilets and make sure to take drinks."

James Sinclair

"A circular walk that has everything.
Massive views, beautiful meadows, great for birding, easy paths, quiet villages to pass through, all this on a 3 reservoirs walk recommended from a local magazine with good directions and illustrated map, took us 4.5 hours from the carpark.
I fully recommend this walk, take a good pair of binoculars, on a clear day you will from the highest point be highly rewarded."

Rory Mcatley

"Had a lovely Sunday walk around this reservoir with my daughter, her partner and granddaughter. Well kept pathway by Yorkshire water, coppiced and full of wild plants and flowers. Spent about 45 minutes walking around and perfect if you have a bike. Plenty of parking, just a very pleasant place to be 🙂👍."

Paul Farrington

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Accessible walking paths
Dog-friendly environment

What People Dislike

No on-site toilets

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Scout Dike Reservoir is accessible by car, with parking available on-site. It's located near Barnsley in South Yorkshire. For those using public transport, check local bus routes as services may be limited. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at Scout Dike Reservoir. It's a popular spot, so arriving early, especially on weekends, is advisable to secure a space. Reddit

Absolutely! The paths are suitable for cycling, and it's a pleasant route for a bike ride, particularly for families. Reddit

The pathways around the reservoir are generally well-kept and suitable for prams, making it an accessible option for families with young children. Reddit

The nearest major town to Scout Dike Reservoir is Barnsley. You'll also find smaller, quiet villages nearby that can be part of a longer walk. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Scout Dike Reservoir is free to enter and explore. There are no admission fees for visitors. Instagram

Scout Dike Reservoir is open to the public year-round during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times. Reddit

There's no need to book tickets as entry is free. You can visit anytime without prior reservation. Instagram

Unfortunately, there are no public toilets or visitor facilities directly at Scout Dike Reservoir. It's recommended to use facilities in nearby towns before or after your visit. Reddit

While anglers are often seen here, it's best to check with Yorkshire Water or local angling associations for specific fishing permits and regulations. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The most popular route is the circular walk around the entire reservoir, approximately 3 miles long. It offers varied scenery and is suitable for most fitness levels. InstagramReddit

The full circular walk typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views or wildlife. Instagram

You can spot various bird species and fish, which are known to be active, especially in the early afternoon. Bringing binoculars is highly recommended for better viewing. Reddit+1

Yes, the reservoir offers beautiful natural scenery, especially during sunrise and sunset, making it a great spot for photography. The changing light on the water and surrounding landscape is picturesque. Instagram

While generally a relaxed environment, it's important to respect the natural surroundings. Some reels mention a one-way system for social distancing, so be mindful of that if it's in place. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there are no dining facilities directly at the reservoir, some visitors mention enjoying milkshakes and ice cream at nearby spots like @milkfromthehills after their walk. Instagram

Yes, picnicking is a great option! Since there are no facilities, bringing your own food and drink is essential. Find a scenic spot and enjoy your meal surrounded by nature. Reddit

It's crucial to pack plenty of water, especially on warmer days. Snacks like sandwiches, fruit, and energy bars are also recommended for a longer walk. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow over the water and landscape. Instagram

Focus on the expansive water views, the surrounding meadows and wooded areas, and any wildlife you encounter. The reflections on the water can also be stunning. Instagram

The highest points of the circular walk offer panoramic views that are excellent for capturing the scale of the reservoir and its surroundings. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for most visitors. If you're keen on wildlife photography, a telephoto lens can be beneficial. Reddit

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