🐾 Dog-Friendly Ladybower, Derwent & Howden Reservoirs at a Glance
– 🦮 Lead Rules: Mostly fine off-lead on wide paths, but keep close where cyclists, runners, and wildlife are around
-🚶 Walk Options: Anything from easy 2–3 mile loops to complete reservoir circuits over 10+ miles
-🌲 Terrain: Smooth reservoir tracks, woodland trails, gentle climbs, and long flat stretches ideal for steady strolls
– 🐑 Wildlife & Livestock: Occasional sheep on higher paths; lots of woodland wildlife year-round
– 🏞 Highlights: Dramatic dam walls, peaceful forests, famous Dambusters history, and sweeping views across the Upper Derwent Valley
– 🚻 Facilities: Toilets and visitor centre at Fairholmes; seasonal refreshments available
– 🅿️ Parking: Several pay-and-display car parks around Ladybower and Fairholmes
About
Nestled in the heart of the Peak District National Park, these three reservoirs are a breathtaking location for days out with your dog. With miles of scenic trails, fresh country air, and plenty of opportunities for your dog to explore, it’s the perfect destination for a relaxing walk or a more adventurous hike.
The trio include Ladybower Reservoir, Derwent Reservoir and Howden Reservoir, famous for their connection to the Dambusters’ training missions during WWII. You’ll also find impressive plug holes and giant overflow drains that create a fascinating whirlpool effect when water levels are high.
Dog Access and Rules
These three Peak District reservoirs are dog-friendly. However, to protect local wildlife and grazing livestock, it’s advised to keep dogs on leads in certain areas, particularly during bird nesting season (March to July) and where there are sheep. Always clean up after your dog, bins are available at main car parks but can be limited on the trails, so bring waste bags.
Things To See & Do
If you want a circular walk that includes all three dams, you’ll need to walk 25 km for a full day. But you don’t need a long walk. There’s no shortage of fantastic dog walk options, from easy paths to more challenging hikes.
You can take each reservoir in turn, with each giving you roughly 8km of walking and a slightly different experience each time. When walking Howden Reservoir, you will pop out of Derbyshire and into South Yorkshire for a while as the boundary splits the reservoir.
Bamford Edge Walk (3 miles) is at the southern point and has stunning panoramic views; this moderate climb up to Bamford Edge is worth the effort. The top overlooks the reservoirs, offering some of the best photo opportunities in the Peak District.
Derwent Dam and Woodlands Walk (4-5 miles): Head towards Derwent Dam, where the famous WWII Dambusters trained. This scenic route takes you through woodland trails, providing plenty of sniffing spots for curious dogs.
Access and Facilities
The reservoirs are easily accessible from the A57. There are many parking options, including the main car parks in the middle at Fairholmes Car Park (S33 0AQ) and towards the south at Heatherdene Car Park (S33 0BY). Buses run from Sheffield and Derby to Bamford and Fairholmes Visitor Centre, with stops near the reservoir. The nearest train station is in Bamford, about 3 miles away.
