WALKING ROUTE / PEAK DISTRICT
Dovestone Reservoir Hike
A longer Dovestone hike with reservoir scenery and upland ground. Choose it for the higher terrain, not as a substitute for the easy reservoir circuit.
The route at a glance
Why this walking route is worth doing.
Photo: GigantusWalnut. Dovestone Reservoir Walking Trail.jpg · CC0.
This 5.9-mile Dovestone Reservoir Hike offers a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, peaceful water views and rewarding climbs. Whether you’re chasing views, enjoying a quiet walk or planning a scenic lunch stop, Dovestone delivers a memorable day out.
A scenic circular walk through reservoirs, valleys and dramatic gritstone edges — perfect for a half-day adventure with packed lunch stops and photo breaks.
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Route overview
The 5.9-mile itinerary includes an upland section. The easier 2.5-mile reservoir circuit is a separate choice.
Follow the route
This 5.9-mile Dovestone Reservoir Hike offers a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, peaceful water views and rewarding climbs. Whether you’re chasing views, enjoying a quiet walk or planning a scenic lunch stop, Dovestone delivers a memorable day out.
A scenic circular walk through reservoirs, valleys and dramatic gritstone edges — perfect for a half-day adventure with packed lunch stops and photo breaks.
📍 Route Overview
Start/End: Dovestone Reservoir Car Park, Greenfield
Distance: 9.48 km / 5.9 miles
Time: 3.5–4.5 hours (including breaks)
Difficulty: Demanding upland option
Best for: Walkers comfortable on rough, exposed upland paths
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🗺️ Route Breakdown (Anti-Clockwise)
1. Start at Dovestone Reservoir Car Park
Grab your boots, snacks and water — the route begins at the main car park with clear signage and access to Chew Road.
2. Chew Road Ascent
Follow Chew Road uphill for sweeping views over the reservoir basin. It’s a steady climb with dramatic moorland scenery and a great spot to pause for early photos.
3. The Trinnacle Viewpoint
The higher section is a substantial upland connection, not a short signed detour from Chew Road. Use detailed mapping and your navigation skills to assess it. Stay back from the Trinnacle and the edges; do not climb the rock formation for a photograph.
4. Greenfield Reservoir Descent
Continue past Greenfield Reservoir, descending through uneven upland terrain towards the reservoir paths. This section is peaceful and ideal for a packed lunch stop.
5. Yeoman Hey Reservoir
Walk alongside Yeoman Hey Reservoir, with reflections of the hills and woodland in the water. It’s a flat, relaxing stretch with benches and picnic spots.
6. Return to Dovestone Reservoir
Complete the loop by circling back along the edge of Dovestone Reservoir itself. The final stretch is flat and scenic, with views across the water and back toward the hills.
🧺 Tips for the Walk
- Footwear: Sturdy walking boots recommended — some uneven terrain
- Food: Bring a packed lunch and drinks — ideal picnic spots near Greenfield and Yeoman Hey
- Weather: Check conditions — the moorland section can be exposed
- Photos: The Trinnacle and reservoir reflections are top photo stops
- Facilities: Toilets and parking at the main car park
Where to Stay in the Peak District
Find places to stay on the interactive map and check the journey to the walk’s start.
🏞️ Summary
This 5.9-mile loop offers a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, peaceful water views and rewarding climbs. Whether you’re chasing views, enjoying a quiet walk or planning a scenic lunch stop, Dovestone delivers a memorable day out.
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This 5.9-mile Dovestone Reservoir Hike offers a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, peaceful water views and rewarding climbs. Whether you’re chasing views, enjoying a quiet walk or planning a scenic lunch stop, Dovestone delivers a memorable day out.
🥾 Dovestone Reservoir Hike – Full Loop Guide
A scenic circular walk through reservoirs, valleys and dramatic gritstone edges — perfect for a half-day adventure with packed lunch stops and photo breaks.
📍 Route Overview
Start/End: Dovestone Reservoir Car Park, Greenfield
Distance: 9.48 km / 5.9 miles
Time: 3.5–4.5 hours (including breaks)
Difficulty: Demanding upland option
Best for: Walkers comfortable on rough, exposed upland paths
🗺️ Route Breakdown (Anti-Clockwise)
1. Start at Dovestone Reservoir Car Park
Grab your boots, snacks and water — the route begins at the main car park with clear signage and access to Chew Road.
2. Chew Road Ascent
Follow Chew Road uphill for sweeping views over the reservoir basin. It’s a steady climb with dramatic moorland scenery and a great spot to pause for early photos.
3. The Trinnacle Viewpoint
The higher section is a substantial upland connection, not a short signed detour from Chew Road. Use detailed mapping and your navigation skills to assess it. Stay back from the Trinnacle and the edges; do not climb the rock formation for a photograph.
4. Greenfield Reservoir Descent
Continue past Greenfield Reservoir, descending through uneven upland terrain towards the reservoir paths. This section is peaceful and ideal for a packed lunch stop.
5. Yeoman Hey Reservoir
Walk alongside Yeoman Hey Reservoir, with reflections of the hills and woodland in the water. It’s a flat, relaxing stretch with benches and picnic spots.
6. Return to Dovestone Reservoir
Complete the loop by circling back along the edge of Dovestone Reservoir itself. The final stretch is flat and scenic, with views across the water and back toward the hills.
🧺 Tips for the Walk
- Footwear: Sturdy walking boots recommended — some uneven terrain
- Food: Bring a packed lunch and drinks — ideal picnic spots near Greenfield and Yeoman Hey
- Weather: Check conditions — the moorland section can be exposed
- Photos: The Trinnacle and reservoir reflections are top photo stops
- Facilities: Toilets and parking at the main car park
Where to Stay in the Peak District
🏞️ Summary
This 5.9-mile loop offers a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, peaceful water views and rewarding climbs. Whether you’re chasing views, enjoying a quiet walk or planning a scenic lunch stop, Dovestone delivers a memorable day out.
Want more? Check out our facebook page
Some of Our Top Posts
Before you go
Practical information.
Choose the reservoir circuit or the upland hike deliberately
The RSPB describes an easier 2.5-mile reservoir circuit. This page’s 5.9-mile hike includes higher ground and should not be sold as the same easy family outing. Moorland paths, exposed edges and navigation make the longer option more demanding.
Read current reserve notices before leaving the lower paths. Do not climb the Trinnacle for a photograph. If you want a relaxed walk, choose the shorter reservoir circuit and save the upland ground for suitable weather, skills and equipment.
Planning update: 5 October 2026. Official information: RSPB Dove Stone access and route choices.
Terrain
Reservoir paths give way to higher, rougher moorland and exposed edges.
Accessibility
The longer upland itinerary is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
Toilets and refreshments
Plan around the main car park and carry supplies for the higher section.
Dogs
Keep dogs under close control and on a lead around livestock, wildlife and exposed edges. Carry water and follow local access notices.
Safety
Stay back from edges and the Trinnacle. Follow current unstable-ground and moorland access warnings.
Seasonal considerations
Avoid exposed higher ground in strong winds, poor visibility or ice.
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Dovestone Reservoir Hike FAQs.
Where does this route start?
Dovestone Reservoir main car park, Greenfield
How much time should I allow?
Allow 3½–4½ hours or longer in rough conditions
What is the ground like?
Reservoir paths give way to higher, rougher moorland and exposed edges.
What should I check before travelling?
Stay back from edges and the Trinnacle. Follow current unstable-ground and moorland access warnings.
Where next?
More walks in Peak District.
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