Fewston Reservoir Loop

Fewston Reservoir Loop

At just over 5 km, this is a walk you can squeeze into a lunch break or use as a gentle warm-up before tackling its bigger neighbour, Swinsty. Fewston Reservoir was completed in 1879 as one of the Washburn Valley's chain of drinking-water reservoirs serving Bradford and Harrogate.

The path hugs the shoreline for much of the way, dipping occasionally into strips of mixed woodland where you might surprise a roe deer in the early morning. The surface is good throughout - compacted gravel and woodland track - making it one of the most accessible reservoir walks in North Yorkshire.

Birdwatchers will find plenty to look at. The open water attracts wintering waterfowl including goldeneye, goosander and tufted duck, while oystercatchers and lapwings nest on the grassy margins in spring. In summer, swallows skim the surface hunting insects above the water.

The route passes through the quiet hamlet of Fewston, where the ancient church of St Michael and St Lawrence dates back to Norman times.

This loop can be combined with the Swinsty Reservoir Loop for a combined 10 km walk - see the Fewston and Swinsty Reservoir Loop route.

Key Facts

• Distance: 5.2 km (3.2 miles)
• Ascent: 46 m
• Terrain: Reservoir path, woodland track
• Start/Finish: Swinsty Moor Car Park (LS21 2NP)