Lakes around Downham, a village in Lancashire, England, are primarily reservoirs located in the scenic landscape near Pendle Hill. This area is characterized by its natural beauty and offers various outdoor activities. The reservoirs were historically built to supply water to nearby towns, and now provide settings for walking and exploration. The region's geography includes cloughs and hills, contributing to the diverse natural environment surrounding these water bodies.
Last updated: June 20, 2026
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Amazing reservoir and amazing to see the reflection of the trees and hills in the water on a quiet day.
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The village of Barrowford is the traditional start point for the Pendle Way, a 45-mile (72 km) loop of the Pendle district. The hike begins from the Pendle Heritage Centre, a great place to learn more about the region’s rich history. The village boasts a couple of pubs, a wine bar and a restaurant, though neighbouring Nelson is a better bet for accommodation.
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These days a nature reserve and popular walking spot, Walverden Reservoir was built to supply water to the town of Nelson. Work was completed in 1869, damming the flow of Walverden Water. As Nelson's demands grew, a new reservoir was constructed at Coldwell in 1884 and again in 1935.
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Churn Clough Reservoir, constructed in the late 19th century and expanded during the 1920s, serves as a popular fishing destination. Encircling the reservoir, a well-maintained footpath offers a pleasant route for leisurely walks and exploration of the surrounding woodland.
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Lower Ogden Reservoir was built in the early 1900's to supply water to the surrounding area. The track to the north can be linked with footpaths to the south so that you can run around the reservoir from Barley. You can also extend the run and take in Upper Ogden Reservoir or use this as the start or finishing section for a brilliant loop of Pendle Hill.
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Lower Ogden Reservoir was built in the early 1900's to supply water to the surrounding area.
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For walking, the Lower Ogden Reservoir offers tracks that can be linked with footpaths for runs or extended loops. The Ogden Reservoirs also feature delightful trails, often explored by those ascending Pendle Hill. Additionally, Churn Clough Reservoir has a well-maintained footpath encircling it, perfect for leisurely walks.
Yes, several lakes around Downham are suitable for families. Lower Ogden Reservoir, Ogden Reservoirs, Walverden Reservoir, and Churn Clough Reservoir are all categorized as family-friendly, offering accessible paths and natural beauty for all ages to enjoy.
The lakes around Downham are set within a scenic landscape near Pendle Hill, characterized by cloughs and hills. You'll find plantations like Fell Wood near the Ogden Reservoirs, featuring spruces, pines, and larches. The area offers diverse natural environments, including woodland around Churn Clough Reservoir, making it ideal for enjoying the outdoors.
Yes, there are easy walks available. Walverden Reservoir is known for its easy walking paths, and the well-maintained footpath around Churn Clough Reservoir also offers a pleasant, leisurely route. For more options, you can explore the Easy hikes around Downham guide.
The lakes around Downham are primarily reservoirs, historically built to supply water to nearby towns. For instance, Lower Ogden Reservoir was constructed in the early 1900s, and Walverden Reservoir was completed in 1869 to supply Nelson. Churn Clough Reservoir was built in the late 19th century and expanded in the 1920s. These man-made water features now serve as popular spots for recreation and enjoying nature.
Absolutely. The track to the north of Lower Ogden Reservoir can be linked with southern footpaths for runs around the reservoir. You can also extend your route to include Upper Ogden Reservoir or use these as part of a loop around Pendle Hill. The trails around Ogden Reservoirs are also popular for those ascending Pendle Hill.
Beyond walking and hiking around the lakes, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find MTB Trails around Downham, as well as options for cycling. The scenic landscape near Pendle Hill provides a great backdrop for exploring on two wheels or by foot.
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and the opportunities for walking and exploration. The reflections of trees and hills in the water on a quiet day at Lower Ogden Reservoir are often highlighted. The trails around the Ogden Reservoirs are also a delight, especially for those on their way up Pendle Hill.
Yes, the Ogden Reservoirs are considered a viewpoint, offering scenic vistas as water runs off Pendle Hill. The overall area, with its cloughs and hills, provides many picturesque spots to enjoy the landscape.
Yes, it's possible to link walks between reservoirs. For example, the track at Lower Ogden Reservoir can be extended to include Upper Ogden Reservoir, creating a longer and more varied route. This allows for exploring multiple water bodies in a single outing.
Upper Ogden Reservoir is an intermediate man-made lake that offers a route around the back of Pendle Hill. This provides an alternative to steeper ascents, making it a good option for those looking for a less strenuous way to experience the area around Pendle Hill.


Still not found your perfect lake around Downham? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.