Dovestone and Yeoman Hey Reservoir Walk

Route Description for Dovestone and Yeoman Hey Reservoir Walk

Overall, the Dovestone and Yeoman Hey Reservoir Walk is a nice and level route that is popular with walkers of every age and skill level; however, there are a few stretches just beyond Yeoman Reservoir where less-mobile walkers or families with pushchairs might need assistance. Parking at the trailhead is pay and display, and can be utilized for £4 per day.

With amazing views that stretch across the calm water of the reservoirs to the surrounding moorland and the rugged cliffs of Dovestone Edge in the backdrop, this walk is certainly not short on amazing views, yet is still accessible enough for a fun day of adventuring within Peak District National Park.

Setting out from the car park, follow the path in the southeast corner and head left at the junction to follow along the edge of the Dovestone Reservoir. Make your way along the western edge of the water for 0.5 km, taking in the imposing views of the Dovestone Edge to the east, before arriving at a bridge near the reservoir overflow. Make your way across the bridge and pick up the trail on the other side, following it as it bends to the right and passes straight through a junction.

Keep on for 1.0 km, as you now walk along the north edge of the reservoir and continue to take in the spectacular views of the surrounding moorland, before meeting with a lane. Follow this to the right and make a left at the junction located at the edge of the Yeoman Hey Reservoir. Continue on for 0.3 km and keep to the left at the fork to follow closely along the stream until you arrive at the edge of the Greenfield Reservoir. Once there, take the path to the right to walk along the dam wall, where you will have an amazing view of Ravenstones Brow and the Trinnacles ahead of you to the south along the rocky ridge of Ashway Moss.

Reaching the edge of the reservoir, head right and continue south along the path for 1.1 km to pass by the edge of Yeoman Hey Reservoir on your right. From here, continue on for 0.3 km, where you will cross over a small bridge and pass by the scenic edge of Celebration Wood. Continue walking along the foot of Dovestone Moss for 0.89mi, taking in the views of the rugged cliffs looming overhead and the surrounding moorland below. Once you have arrived at a small stream, make your way across and turn right to continue along Chew Road for the return portion of the journey back to the car park.

Along this last stretch of the walk, you will pass by the scenic wood of the Dovestone Reservoir Memorial Forest on your right and the Chew Plantation on your left before coming to the Dovestone Sailing Club. From here, it is a short jaunt along the path to return to the trailhead where you began your day. After completing the Dovestone and Yeoman Hey Reservoir Walk, take some time to explore some of the other trails that can be found throughout the area or make your way into one of the pubs in Greenfield for a quick pint before heading home.

Trail Highlights

Dovestone Reservoir

Located where the Greenfield and Chew Brooks valleys converge, the Dovestone Reservoir is a scenic body of water that can be found along the western edge of the Peak District. The reservoir is used as a water supply for the surrounding towns in the area and offers recreational access for several outdoor activities that include walking, climbing, and sailing.

Other amazing walks in Peak District National Park

Check out our guides to Kinder Scout, Mam Tor, Stanage Edge, Dovedale, and Padley Gorge. Or see all of our Peak District walks on 10Adventures.

Insider Hints for Dovestone and Yeoman Hey Reservoir Walk

• Pay-and-display parking is available at the trailhead for £4/day.
• Keep your dog on leash to avoid encounters with sheep that sometimes roam the landscape.
• The trail is often busy during peak hours. Arrive early or mid-week to avoid crowds.
• Toilets can be found on-site next to the car park.