Van Miles

If you’re looking for an easy reservoir walk in Lancashire with beautiful scenery, plenty of wildlife and very little climbing, the Upper Rivington Reservoir Walk is one of my favourite places to visit.

This this peaceful circular walk follows the shoreline of Upper Rivington Reservoir, offering fantastic views across the water towards Winter Hill. It’s ideal for families, dog walkers, beginner walkers and anyone wanting a relaxing few hours outdoors.

Walk Overview

• Location: Upper Rivington Reservoir, Lancashire
• Distance: Approximately 2.5 miles (4 km)
• Time: Around 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy
• Terrain: Mainly wide gravel paths and tarmac with a few uneven sections
• Dog Friendly: Yes
• Suitable for Pushchairs: Mostly, although some sections can be uneven depending on conditions.

Parking

There are several free parking options around the reservoir. I started from the parking area near Great House Barn, which gives easy access straight onto the reservoir path.

Parking can become busy during weekends and sunny afternoons, so arriving earlier is worthwhile.

THE WALK

This is one of those walks where you can simply slow down and enjoy being outside.

The circular route follows the edge of the reservoir for much of the walk, with constantly changing views across the water. You’ll often see ducks, geese and other birdlife, while the surrounding woodland provides plenty of shade during warmer weather.

One of the best things about this walk is how accessible it is. There are no long steep climbs or difficult sections, making it perfect if you simply want fresh air without tackling a strenuous hike.

As you continue around the reservoir you’ll enjoy panoramic views towards Winter Hill and the surrounding West Pennine Moors. The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, making it somewhere worth returning to throughout the year.

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Facilities

One of the biggest advantages of visiting Rivington is the nearby facilities.

Close to the reservoir you’ll find:

• Great House Barn café
• Public toilets
• Picnic areas
• Ice cream and refreshments (seasonal)
• Plenty of benches overlooking the water

After your walk it’s easy to spend another hour or two exploring the wider Rivington area.

Is the Walk Dog Friendly?

Absolutely.

Dogs are welcome throughout the route and there are plenty of opportunities for them to enjoy the woodland and reservoir scenery. Just remember to keep dogs under control around wildlife and livestock where required.

Best Time to Visit

The walk is beautiful all year round.

• Spring: Fresh greenery and wildflowers.
• Summer: Calm water and long evenings.
• Autumn: Colourful woodland surrounding the reservoir.
• Winter: Crisp mornings with peaceful reflections across the water.

Early mornings are particularly peaceful before the area becomes busier.

My Thoughts

I really enjoyed this walk because it’s exactly the kind of place where you can switch off for an hour without needing to tackle difficult terrain.

At around 2.5 miles, it’s the perfect distance for a gentle stroll, especially if you’re walking with dogs or simply want a relaxing afternoon outdoors. The combination of woodland, open water and distant hill views makes it feel far more remote than it actually is.

It’s easy to see why Rivington is such a popular destination, but even here you can still find quieter moments simply by taking your time and enjoying the scenery.

Top Tips

• Visit early to avoid busy periods.
• Wear suitable footwear after wet weather as some paths can become muddy.
• Bring a camera—the reservoir reflections are beautiful.
• Stop at Great House Barn for a coffee after your walk.
• Combine this walk with nearby Lower Rivington Reservoir if you fancy extending your day out.

Final Verdict

Upper Rivington Reservoir Walk is one of the best easy reservoir walks in Lancashire. With peaceful water views, accessible paths, free parking and excellent facilities nearby, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a relaxing walk in nature without tackling steep hills.