Near Scorton, Lancashire, in the Forest of Bowland National Landscape

Grizedale Reservoir

Reservoir

Place photograph

5.7

Wildland

2–3 hours for the Scorton and reservoir circular

Time

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Cost

Peaceful

Feel

ReservoirHillsRiversideWoodlandWalkersPhotographersWildlife lovers

Why it's Wildland

5.7

The reservoir is part of a varied walk from Scorton that climbs to Nicky Nook before descending to the water and following Grizedale Brook through woodland.

The appeal is the contrast: an exposed climb to Nicky Nook, views across the Bowland landscape, then a quieter stretch beside the reservoir and brook. It is best approached as part of the documented Scorton loop rather than as a standalone visit with assumed facilities or water access.

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Near Scorton, Lancashire, in the Forest of Bowland National Landscape

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The experience

The strongest sourced way to experience Grizedale Reservoir is on the circular walk from Scorton via Nicky Nook. Expect a steep initial climb, reservoir-side paths and some muddy or uneven ground; bring suitable footwear and check access and parking before you go.

Things to do

Walk the Scorton and Grizedale Reservoir circular

Follow the route over Nicky Nook, down to the reservoir’s northern banks and dam, and back beside Grizedale Brook. The route source describes a steep climb and warns that paths can be muddy after rain.

About 2–2.5 hours

Pause at Nicky Nook for the view

The route description says that clear weather can bring views over the surrounding Bowland hills and towards Blackpool.

Follow the brook-side woodland section

On the return leg, the described route follows Grizedale Brook through woodland, noted by the route source for birdlife.

Make a day of it

Quick escape · About 2–2.5 hours; 3.9 miles / 6.3 km

The reservoir and Nicky Nook loop

01
Start from Scorton at the route’s stated start point; confirm parking arrangements before travelling.
02
Take the steep climb towards Nicky Nook and pause at the summit for views on a clear day.
03
Descend towards Grizedale Reservoir and follow its northern banks to the dam.
04
Continue beside Grizedale Brook through woodland, then follow the route back towards Scorton.
05
Wear suitable footwear: sections can be muddy after rain, and the route includes a road section where pedestrians should take care.

Hidden details

Look for the landscape changing along the loop — The route moves from an open, steep climb at Nicky Nook to reservoir-side paths and then a wooded stretch beside Grizedale Brook—a useful way to notice the contrast in habitats and views.

When to go

May · June · July · August · September · October · Choose a clear day for the summit views; consider a weekday for a quieter walk.

The source row suggests late spring and summer for milder weather and autumn for colour. The route source warns that sections can be muddy after rainfall, so conditions matter in any season.

Expect exposed conditions on the climb and take care on muddy paths after rain. The route includes a road section where there may be no kerb for pedestrians.

Worth pairing with

Scorton café

The route source notes a café in Scorton for refreshments before or after the walk; verify current opening and availability.

What to look for

Notice the change in landscape between the exposed climb to Nicky Nook, the reservoir’s northern banks and the wooded section beside Grizedale Brook. The route source notes birdlife in the brook-side woodland.

Best time to go

Late spring to autumn for milder walking conditions; paths can be muddy after rain.

Choose a clear day for the views from Nicky Nook. Weekdays may be quieter; the route source recommends good footwear, particularly after rainfall.

How long to spend

2–3 hours for the Scorton and reservoir circular

Perfect for

Walkers · Photographers · Wildlife lovers

Practical information

Opening & access

A walking route from Scorton visits the reservoir’s northern banks and dam. Confirm current access and parking arrangements before setting out.

Parking

A small parking area is reported in the source row; verify its location, availability and any restrictions before travelling.

Check before visiting

Toilets

No dedicated toilets are reported in the source row; check before visiting.

Check before visiting

Food & drink

A café is reported in Scorton on the route source; check current details. No café or shop is reported at the reservoir.

Check before visiting

Dogs

The source row describes the site as dog friendly, but check current local rules and signage.

Check before visiting

Accessibility

The documented loop includes a steep climb and uneven or muddy sections; it is not described as wheelchair accessible. Check conditions and suitability before setting out.

Check before visiting

Cost

Check before visiting

Water

Reservoir; the route also follows Grizedale Brook. No swimming or paddling permission is evidenced.