Widdop Reservoir
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Widdop Reservoir

4.9
·94 reviews·, United Kingdom

Remote moorland reservoir offering dramatic landscapes, challenging walks, and gritstone bouldering. A true escape into nature's wild beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Crisp air, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Widdop Reservoir

Widdop Reservoir

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Crisp air, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Remote moorland reservoir offering dramatic landscapes, challenging walks, and gritstone bouldering. A true escape into nature's wild beauty.

4.9
(94 reviews)

"Stunning scenery and great walk around the reservoir, gets a little narrow and steep on some places but fairly easy to navigate!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Essential for navigating boggy, wet, and steep sections. Don't underestimate the terrain!

🚶‍♀️ Walking Pole Recommended

A walking pole can provide extra stability on slippery paths.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Moorland Views

Panoramic Moorland Views

Vast, open landscapes with breathtaking views across the rugged Yorkshire moors. A true escape into nature's grandeur.

Monolithic Picnic Spots

Monolithic Picnic Spots

Discover large, ancient stones perfect for a scenic picnic break amidst the wild beauty.

Reddit
Challenging Bouldering

Challenging Bouldering

Home to impressive gritstone formations, attracting climbers seeking unique outdoor challenges.

TikTokInstagram
Remote Reservoir Landscape

Remote Reservoir Landscape

The serene expanse of the reservoir itself, reflecting the dramatic skies and surrounding wilderness.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Wild Moors

Widdop Reservoir offers stunning, remote moorland scenery. Be prepared for potentially boggy and uneven terrain, especially off the main paths. Sturdy walking boots and a walking pole are highly recommended for a comfortable experience. Reddit

Plan Your Route Wisely

While many enjoy a straightforward walk around the reservoir, some sections can become tricky, wet, and steep. Consider linking your visit with longer hikes like the Pennine Bridleway or a route to Haworth for a more extensive adventure. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Longer daylight hours
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Widdop Reservoir, Flamin Erries. A surreal climbing experience. I was really happy to dispatch this on the second attempt with some beta from a local. A warming moment between strangers that share a passion. #climb #climbing_is_my_passion #bouldering #indoorclimbing #climbing rockclimbing #klettern #escalade #trainhard #strongnotlong #training #trainingforclimbing
bluesbouldering
48 likes • 839 views

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Essential for navigating boggy, wet, and steep sections. Don't underestimate the terrain! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walking Pole Recommended

A walking pole can provide extra stability on slippery paths. Reddit

Day 4 and we spent the morning exploring Widdop reservoir and the afternoon with family. We are loving our little trip and looking forward to many more! Click FOLLOW to join us on our adventures . . . . #vanlifeuk #vantravel #exploring #family #homeiswhereyouparkit #camperlife #vanlifedreams #vanlifeeurope #roadtrip #day4 #van #vancouples #vanlifevirals #vanlifeculture #vanlove
thesleepysprinter
56 likes • 1.3K views
Top banana day out with the lovely @cat_t_88 up at Widdop Reservoir and the woofer. #widdopreservoir #hiking #walking #yorkshire #westyorkshire #nature
ourcoddiwomples
12 likes • 356 views

🐶 Dog-Friendly (with caution)

Lots of sheep around, so keep dogs under close control. Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Enjoy your meal on scenic monolithic stones with stunning views. Reddit

Nice day around Widdop Reservoir, walking and climbing
rockstarwayne
16 likes • 214 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Essential for navigating boggy, wet, and steep sections. Don't underestimate the terrain! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walking Pole Recommended

A walking pole can provide extra stability on slippery paths. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly (with caution)

Lots of sheep around, so keep dogs under close control. Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Enjoy your meal on scenic monolithic stones with stunning views. Reddit

🧗 Bouldering Gear Needed

Bring your climbing shoes and chalk for the gritstone challenges. TikTok

🗺️ Check Your Route

Paths can be less defined and tricky in places. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(94 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Widdop Reservoir for its stunning, remote moorland scenery and the feeling of wildness. It's a popular spot for walkers, photographers, and climbers. However, many caution that the terrain can be very challenging, with boggy, wet, and steep sections that require sturdy footwear and careful navigation. InstagramReddit+1

"In a 200 square kilometer area of moorland, stunning views but essentially that feeling of remoteness. Really good walk Hurstwood past Widdop and onto Haworth. 14 kilometers of wild moorland with the bustling little town of Haworth to visit at the end."

John Carroll

"Beautiful..easy walk half way but very tricky when gravel path stops
Extremely boggy not very well defined path then very difficult wet slippy muddy steep steps down to cross the end of the reservoir then scramble up bank to return to path
Not for just your Sunday walkers
Need good shoes and I'm glad I had my pole ."

Local Walker

"Great walk but lots of sheep if your bringing a doggo like we did. Some really beautiful views and some big monolithic stones you can sit on to have a picnic like we did. Also links in to the pennine bridleway. Not too difficult terrain wise good starts walk"

Sean Cartwright

What People Like

Stunning moorland views
Remote and wild atmosphere
Great for walking and photography

What People Dislike

Boggy and difficult terrain
Poorly defined paths
Steep and slippery sections

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Widdop Reservoir is accessible by car, with parking available nearby. It's situated in a remote moorland area, so driving is the most common method. Some visitors link it to longer walks from surrounding towns like Hebden Bridge or Haworth. InstagramReddit

Public transport options are limited due to its remote location. Bus services may reach nearby towns, but you'll likely need to walk or arrange a taxi for the final leg. Reddit

Several access points exist around the reservoir. Many start from the main car park areas and follow the reservoir's edge, though be aware paths can vary in quality. InstagramReddit

Yes, Widdop Reservoir is part of the Pennine Bridleway, making it suitable for cycling. However, be prepared for varied terrain, including some rough and potentially boggy sections. Reddit

While some vanlifers explore the area, official overnight parking might be restricted. Be mindful of local regulations and leave no trace. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Widdop Reservoir is a natural landscape and is free to access. There are no admission fees. Reddit

As an open natural area, Widdop Reservoir does not have set opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

There is no dedicated visitor center at Widdop Reservoir. Information is primarily gained through signage and personal exploration. Reddit

Parking is generally free in designated areas around Widdop Reservoir, but it's always wise to check local signage for any potential charges. Reddit

You can access Widdop Reservoir in most weather, but conditions can become challenging. Heavy rain can make paths very boggy and slippery, and high winds can be severe on the exposed moors. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The terrain varies significantly. While some paths are gravel, others can be extremely boggy, wet, muddy, and steep, especially when the gravel path ends. Scrambling may be required in places. Reddit

It can be, but with caution. While beautiful, the challenging and sometimes undefined paths might not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. Sturdy footwear is a must. InstagramReddit

There are no public toilets or cafes directly at Widdop Reservoir. It's a remote natural area, so come prepared with everything you need. Reddit

You're likely to see plenty of sheep roaming freely. Birdlife is also common in the moorland environment. Reddit

Absolutely! The dramatic moorland landscapes, the reservoir itself, and the changing skies offer fantastic opportunities for landscape photography. Drone footage also captures its beauty well. Instagram

🎫 🧗 Bouldering at Widdop

Widdop is known for its gritstone bouldering. Areas like Flamin' Erries and Reservoir Dogs are popular spots for climbers. TikTokInstagram+1

Widdop offers a range of bouldering problems, from easier routes to challenging grades like E8 7a. It attracts climbers of various skill levels. Instagram

While there are some easier problems, Widdop is generally considered more suited to experienced climbers due to the nature of the gritstone and the remote location. TikTokInstagram

You'll need standard bouldering gear: climbing shoes, chalk, and a crash pad. Some routes may also benefit from a spotter. TikTok

Local climbing communities and online forums often share information and beta for Widdop's bouldering routes. Checking articles like 'Widdop Bouldering: Quick Hits' can be helpful. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Widdop Reservoir offers a beautiful natural escape, but families should approach with caution. While the scenery is stunning, the walking paths can be challenging, boggy, and steep, especially off the main routes. It's best suited for families with older children who are confident walkers and equipped with sturdy, waterproof footwear. InstagramReddit

Consider sticking to the more defined paths for shorter excursions. The presence of sheep means dogs need to be kept under close control. Packing a picnic to enjoy on the large stones is a great way to make the outing enjoyable for everyone. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Ramblers

For serious hikers, Widdop Reservoir is a fantastic starting point or section of a longer trek. You can enjoy stunning moorland views and the feeling of remoteness. The area links into the Pennine Bridleway, offering extensive route options. Reddit

Be prepared for variable terrain, including boggy sections and steep descents. Bringing a walking pole and wearing waterproof boots is highly recommended. Plan your route carefully, as paths can be less defined in places. Reddit

🧗 Climbers & Bouldering Enthusiasts

Widdop is a prime destination for gritstone bouldering. Climbers will find challenging problems on impressive rock formations, with areas like Flamin' Erries and Reservoir Dogs being popular. TikTokInstagram+1

Ensure you have your climbing shoes, chalk, and a crash pad. Be aware of the remote location and the nature of the gritstone. It's a rewarding spot for those looking to test their skills in a wild, scenic environment. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Terrain: A Walker's Guide

Widdop Reservoir presents a varied walking experience. While the main paths can be relatively straightforward, many visitors report that the trail becomes significantly more challenging as you venture further. Expect sections that are extremely boggy, wet, and muddy, requiring careful footing. The path can become poorly defined, making navigation tricky, and some descents involve very difficult, slippery, and steep steps down to cross the reservoir's edge. Reddit

For those planning a walk, sturdy, waterproof walking boots are essential. Many reviewers also strongly recommend bringing a walking pole for added stability, especially on the more treacherous sections. The feeling of remoteness is a significant draw, but it also means you're further from immediate assistance if you encounter difficulties. Planning your route and being prepared for the conditions will greatly enhance your enjoyment and safety. Reddit

Some visitors have successfully linked their Widdop Reservoir walk with longer routes, such as the Pennine Bridleway or a trek to the charming town of Haworth. This can offer a more comprehensive moorland experience, but requires a good level of fitness and preparedness for extended hiking. Reddit

The Gritstone Climbing Haven

Widdop Reservoir is a recognized spot for gritstone bouldering, attracting climbers who appreciate its unique rock formations and challenging problems. The area features impressive boulders, with specific sites like Flamin' Erries and Reservoir Dogs being notable. Climbers often describe the experience as surreal and rewarding, with a strong sense of community and shared passion. TikTokInstagram+1

The climbing at Widdop offers a spectrum of difficulty. While some routes are more accessible, it's also known for its harder grades, such as the challenging E8 7a route on Reservoir Dogs. This means it appeals to both seasoned climbers looking for a test and those seeking to push their limits. The outdoor setting on the moors adds to the appeal, providing a beautiful and wild environment for a climbing session. Instagram

For those planning a bouldering trip, it's advisable to bring standard climbing gear, including climbing shoes, chalk, and a crash pad. Some climbers also mention the value of local knowledge or beta from other climbers to tackle specific problems effectively. The remote nature of Widdop means self-sufficiency is key. TikTok

A Photographer's Paradise

The expansive moorland surrounding Widdop Reservoir provides a dramatic and ever-changing backdrop for photographers. The vast, open landscapes offer a sense of scale and wildness, perfect for capturing sweeping vistas. The reservoir itself, with its reflective surface, can create stunning mirror-like images, especially when the skies are dramatic. Instagram

Beyond the reservoir, the monolithic stones scattered across the moors add an element of intrigue and texture to photographs. Whether you're capturing the rugged beauty of the landscape or the subtle details of the natural environment, Widdop offers diverse photographic opportunities. Drone footage, in particular, can showcase the sheer scale and remote beauty of the area. Instagram

For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset, when the light is soft and casts long shadows, enhancing the contours of the moorland. The weather can also play a significant role, with moody skies and mist adding atmosphere to your shots. Instagram

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