Top 14 Lakes around Ilkley
Best lakes around Ilkley include a mix of natural tarns and man-made reservoirs, set amidst the scenic Ilkley Moor and the prominent River Wharfe. The area is characterized by its moorland landscapes, offering diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Ilkley's waterways provide settings for walking, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors. The region's history is also intertwined with its water bodies, from Victorian-era attractions to ancient settlements near ponds.
Best lakes around Ilkley
- The most popular lakes is Fewston Reservoir Circular…
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Fewston Reservoir Circular Path
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Thruscross Reservoir
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Lindley Wood Reservoir
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Coppice Pond, St Ives Estate
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Ruins of West End Village at Thruscross Reservoir
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Undoubtedly the most scenic of the Washburn reservoirs with the moorland backdrop to the north. The circular route around the reservoir from the car park is about 5 miles, the track on the southwestern side runs along the edge of plantations and offers some shade from the sun and shelter from the elements. The track on the northeastern side is more exposed, and if you do the whole circuit you will cross over Far Comb Hill and the plantation along the edge of the reservoir at Whit Moor - a great route.
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Good quality paths all the way around Thruscross, Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs, with parking at Swinsty Moor Plantation, Fewston village, Blubberhouses, and Thruscross Reservoir dam. If you do all 3 reservoirs then that clocks in at a 15-mile route, but is well worth it. The paths around the southern reservoirs are generally wide and flat. There are benches at periodic intervals on the eastern side of Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs, where you can take a break and admire the views.
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The walk from the large car park at Thruscross Reservoir dam up the west side of the reservoir to Cloggers Lane is magical and gives far better views than the tracks along Scot Lane on the eastern side. The track meanders along the edge of coniferous plantations, giving dappled shade on a sunny day and unobstructed views across the reservoir.
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Lindley Wood is a compensation reservoir, which means it is not linked to the supply of water to homes but is there to take excess water from Fewston and Swinsty reservoirs, which are nearby. This is why there is not much water in there.
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Here in the Washburn Valley are two reservoirs right next to each other, Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs. You can walk around both of them or just do a solo jaunt around one. The walk around Fewston reservoir is less obstructed than Swinsty and is the better of the two walks. The Fewston Path goes for 3.7 miles (6 km) around the reservoir on well-maintained paths that, on a sunny day, will give you super nice views along with a good dose of peace and tranquillity.
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It is very odd to think that an entire village once existed here, but that's what you're looking at here. The entire village of West End. Cloggers Lane dropped here towards Patrick's Mill, the Butcher's Arm and a church, all of which vanished under the Thruscross Reservoir in the mid 1960s. A curious, eerie sight.
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There are four reservoirs in the Washburn Valley, and this one is the northernmost. What distinguishes this one from the other three is also the fact that this one was built in 1966 while the other ones in the 19th century. The reservoir belongs to Yorkshire Water, the water company. From Reservoir Road in particular, the views of the reservoir are stunning - particularly given that you are high above. Sunsets here are just something else!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of water bodies can I explore around Ilkley?
Around Ilkley, you can explore a diverse range of water bodies including natural tarns, several man-made reservoirs, and the prominent River Wharfe. These offer varied landscapes from moorland settings to wooded banks and country parks.
Are there any easy walking paths around the lakes near Ilkley?
Yes, many of the reservoirs offer easy walking paths. For instance, the Fewston Reservoir Circular Path is a 6 km route with well-maintained, generally wide and flat paths, providing nice views and a peaceful experience. The Tarn on Ilkley Moor also offers leisurely strolls.
Which lakes are suitable for families with children?
Several locations are family-friendly. Fewston Reservoir Circular Path is noted for its well-maintained paths. Coppice Pond, St Ives Estate, is within a large country park with woodlands and heath, offering plenty of space for exploration. The Riverside Gardens next to the River Wharfe also feature a large playground.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes and reservoirs in the Ilkley area?
Yes, many of the trails around the lakes and reservoirs are dog-friendly. Both Fewston Reservoir Circular Path and Thruscross Reservoir are popular choices for walks with dogs.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest near the lakes?
Absolutely. Coppice Pond, St Ives Estate, is part of a Grade II listed park with evidence of ancient settlements from various historical periods. At Thruscross Reservoir, you can sometimes see the remains of the submerged village of West End when water levels are low, a truly eerie and unique historical sight. Lindley Wood Reservoir is also one of the oldest in the Washburn Valley, built between 1869 and 1876.
What is special about Thruscross Reservoir?
Thruscross Reservoir is known for its remote and serene location, making it a haven for wildlife. It also holds a unique historical secret: when water levels are low, the remains of the condemned village of West End, submerged during the reservoir's construction in the 1960s, can become visible.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The area around Ilkley's lakes and the River Wharfe offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like those found in the Waterfall hikes around Ilkley guide, gravel biking with routes from the Gravel biking around Ilkley guide, or running on trails detailed in the Running Trails around Ilkley guide. The River Wharfe is also popular for walking, strolling, and fly fishing.
Is it possible to swim in the River Wharfe at Ilkley?
A stretch of the River Wharfe at Ilkley was designated as England's first river bathing site in 2020, meaning its water quality is regularly monitored. However, despite this designation, there have been ongoing concerns and issues with water quality due to sewage pollution, leading to 'poor' classifications at times. Improvements are underway, but it's advisable to check current conditions if considering swimming.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Ilkley?
The lakes and reservoirs around Ilkley offer beauty year-round. Sunny days provide 'super nice views' along well-maintained paths, as noted for Fewston Reservoir. The moorland backdrop of Thruscross Reservoir is particularly scenic. In colder months, The Tarn on Ilkley Moor historically offered ice skating, suggesting a picturesque winter landscape, though paths might be more exposed.
What makes Lindley Wood Reservoir unique among the Washburn Valley reservoirs?
Lindley Wood Reservoir is the oldest of the four Washburn Valley reservoirs, built between 1869 and 1876. It functions as a compensation reservoir, meaning it takes in excess water from nearby Fewston and Swinsty reservoirs rather than supplying water directly to homes. This can sometimes lead to lower water levels, as seen during droughts.
Are there any specific viewpoints or scenic spots I should look for?
Yes, the Fewston Reservoir Circular Path offers 'super nice views' along its route. For Thruscross Reservoir, views from Reservoir Road are stunning, especially at sunset, and the moorland backdrop to the north is particularly scenic. The Tarn on Ilkley Moor is also a picturesque spot for unwinding amidst nature.
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