Langsett Reservoir Circular Walk

While the Langsett Reservoir Circular Walk is perfectly suited for a fun, family-friendly adventure, there are some areas of the route that may not be suitable for all levels of walkers. Some parts along the trail may be uneven due to rocks and tree roots, making travel difficult for those in wheelchairs or families with pushchairs. Additionally, this route can become very busy during peak hours and on weekends, so make sure to plan your walk accordingly if you want to avoid large volumes of foot traffic.

It may be a popular walk in the area, but it is certainly for good reason. The scenery surrounding the Langsett Reservoir is breathtaking and varied, including the picturesque water of the reservoir, stretches of beautiful forest, open moorland, and rolling green hills. When combined with the well-maintained and easy to navigate trail system, you have a winning recipe for an awesome day of exploration in Peak District National Park.

Setting out from the car park, follow the track to the southeast and turn right at the first junction to begin making your way around the reservoir in a counterclockwise direction. Here, the trail will enter into a thick stretch of woodland that offers a relaxing atmosphere with intermittent views across the water. Continue on for 0.9mi until you arrive at a junction near the Little Don River. Take the path to the left, followed by another left to cross over the flowing water of the river and arrive at another junction in the trail.

Follow the path to the left and pass through the gate to make your way along a trail that climbs gently uphill through the moor and provides a sweeping view across the picturesque landscape. After 0.4mi, head left at the fork to cut along the moor to the southeast, where you will pass through a gate and meet up with Thickwoods Lane. From here, you will make your way through a fairly open area with light vegetation for 0.4mi before arriving at the flowing waters of Thickwoods Brooke. Cross over the stream and continue down the lane for 0.3mi, where you will find a narrow trail branching off to the left just before a fork in the road.

Head into the forest and enjoy the serene atmosphere, as you walk north towards the edge of the reservoir. Reaching a quick series of junctions, take the left path, followed by the right to follow closely along the edge of the water and absorb some of the partial views through the tree cover. Keep straight through any junctions that you might come across, until you arrive at an intersection with Midhope Cliff Lane.

From here, cross over the stile and head to the left, following the road with the deep blue waters of the reservoir on your left and an open green field on your right. After 0.3mi along the road, turn left and pass through the gate to continue along the track for a short distance and arrive back at the trailhead where you began your journey. At this point, you can either continue to explore the strong network of trails that can be found in the area or head into the nearby Wagon and Horses for a quick pint to reward yourself for completing the Langsett Reservoir Circular Walk.

Trail Highlights

Langsett Reservoir

Constructed between 1889 and 1904, the Langsett Reservoir is roughly one mile-long and 51 hectares (126 acres) in area. Located on the edge of Peak District National Park, the reservoir is fed by the Little Don River and supplies water to nearby Sheffield and Barnsley.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to walk around Langsett Reservoir?

The walk around Langsett Reservoir takes roughly 2.5h and features scenic views of the open moorland and nearby woodland landscape.

Find other amazing walks in Peak District National Park:

• Kinder Scout
• Mam Tor
• Stanage Edge
• Dovedale Walk
• Padley Gorge