Grimwith Reservoir Walk

The Grimwith Reservoir Walk is a great option for families, pets and anyone with a pushchair or stroller. The ground can get a bit muddy in the wetter months if you head off of the main, wide tarmac path, however, this can be avoided by staying on track.

This reservoir is a beautiful place, surrounded by rolling hills and bodies of water. In the fall months, the trees are a vibrant mix of colours, showcasing amber oranges, bright yellows and deep reds. In the spring and summer months, wildflowers can be seen here in abundance.

Beginning at the car park follow the track to the edge of the water and turn left heading towards the dam. This is a simple route to follow as it slowly wraps around the reservoir and it is very well marked. There are gates along this path, but they are clearly marked that they are private ways so it is easy to stay on track.

As you continue to follow the path, the route will head left as you pass a barn and then you will come to a T-Junction, where you will head right. Crossing over 2 bridges, you will go over Blea Gill, as well as Gate up Gill. These two rivers feed into the reservoir.

As you continue along, the wide tarmac path will slim down to a regular footpath that is still easy to walk along before quickly turning back into the wide path once again. You will come across a farmhouse that is in ruins and has beautiful stonework.

The track will then pass between the main reservoir and a smaller body of water, which signals the end of Grimworth Beck, another stream that feeds the reservoir. Moving along, you will come across the remains of Grimwith House, located on top of a spit of land. You are not able to get close to these ruins as this is deemed part of the nature reserve.

As you round the path, you will see a thatched bar called High Laithe. This is an important part of history and is known as a cruck barn. You are not able to go inside this barn; however, you can marvel at it from a distance. As you continue along the tarmac path, you will arrive back at the car park where you began, as this is a circuit walk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Grimwith Reservoir Walk family-friendly?

Yes, the Grimwith Reservoir Walk is family-friendly.

Is the Grimwith Reservoir Walk stroller/pushchair friendly?

Yes, the Grimwith Reservoir Walk is stroller and pushchair-friendly.

How long does it take to walk the Grimwith Reservoir Walk?

It takes approximately 2.5 – 3 hours to walk the Grimwith Reservoir Walk

Other Great Walks in Yorkshire Dales National Park

Check out our trail guides to Malham Tarn, Pen-y-Ghent, Malham Cove, Kisdon Force, and the Whernside Walk. Or see all of our Yorkshire Dales walks.