Dovestone Reservoir Circular Walk

The Dovestone Reservoir Circular Walk is part of a strong network of trails on the western edge of the Peak District, offering access to a number of different outdoor activities such as hiking, sailing, and rock climbing; however, due to the region’s popularity, it can also be extremely busy. In order to secure parking at the trailhead and avoid mass crowds along the trail, it is best to arrive early or on off-peak days. Additionally, this walking route does feature a small amount of elevation gain as you make your way uphill along the moor, but with the exception of some light scrambling, these gains should be manageable for walkers of most fitness levels.

This trail is the perfect option for a fun day outdoors if you want to take in some spectacular scenery and get some good exercise in the process. With stunning views that sweep across the rolling hills of the surrounding landscape and the chance to walk past four scenic reservoirs, as well as the iconic Trinnacle; there is no reason why the Dovestone Reservoir Circular Walk shouldn’t be your next big adventure in the Peak District.

Setting out from the trailhead near the southwest corner of the Dovestone Reservoir, make your way north along the edge of the water for 0.3mi, where you will arrive at a bridge next to the reservoir overflow. Make your way over the water and pick the trail back up on the other side, following along as it turns to the east and traverses a stretch of trail along the north edge of the reservoir. Enjoy the scenic views across the water with the moor in the backdrop, as you continue for 0.6mi to arrive at a junction.

Take the path to the right, followed by the next left to work your way around the edge of the Yeoman Hey and Greenfield reservoirs. After 1.6mi, you will pass by the rocky cliffs of Raven Stones Brow on your right and come to another junction in the trail next to the flowing waters of Holme Clough. Here, you can rest for a short while and take in the scenic views of a small, cascading waterfall along the stream before continuing on with your walk. Take the path to the right to begin your climb uphill towards the unique three-pillar rock formation known as The Trinnacle.

After making your way uphill to the gritstone pillars and enjoying the sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, continue your walk along the ridge for 3.5mi as you enjoy a sightline over the Peak District to the southeast and the city to the west. As you walk this lengthy stretch of trail, you will pass by a field of large weathered rocks known as the Charnel Stones on your right, and have some nice views down to the reservoir below.

Reaching a junction at the edge of the Chew Reservoir, take the path to the right to descend the moor along the Chew Brook, following it for 1.6mi and passing through one gate to eventually arrive at another junction. Keep left along a course that will take you through a lovely bit of forest, with the Chew Plantation on your left and the Memorial Forest on your right. After making your way through the trees, continue along the road for another 0.2mi to pass by the Dovestone Sailing Club and arrive back at the trailhead where you began your walk. If you need a bit of nourishment after your journey, pop into a pub in nearby Greenfield for a quick pint to celebrate completing the Dovestone Reservoir Circular Walk.

Trail Highlights

Dovestone Reservoir

Located on the western edge of the Peak District where the Greenfield and Chew Brooks valleys converge, the Dovestone Reservoir is a scenic body of water that supplies drinking water to the surrounding area and offers access to a number of outdoor activities including walking, climbing, and sailing.

The Trinnacle

The Trinnacle is a unique rock formation at the Raven Stones Brow that overlooks Dovestone Reservoir and has been fractured away from the main section of cliffs through years of environmental weathering. A popular destination for rock climbers, the dramatic image of the three gritstone pillars standing high above the moor is one of the area’s most iconic sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is parking?

The pay-and-display parking is available at the Dovestone Reservoir Trailhead for £4 per day.

Find other amazing walks in Peak District National Park:

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