Derwent Reservoir (Derbyshire) Reservoir
Scenic reservoir in Derbyshire, popular with walkers
A man-made lake in Derbyshire, Derwent Reservoir draws walkers, cyclists and anglers to shoreline paths, and serves as access to wider Peak District trails and valley views.
Derwent Reservoir (Derbyshire) at a Glance#
About Derwent Reservoir (Derbyshire)#
Derwent Reservoir in Derbyshire is a man-made reservoir in the Upper Derwent Valley within the Peak District, built by damming the River Derwent. It is one of a chain of reservoirs in the valley that supply water and form a distinct upland valley landscape.
The shoreline and surrounding moorland are used for walking, birdwatching, fishing and sailing; established footpaths and cycling routes follow sections of the reservoir and connect to neighbouring reservoirs. The open valley and waters attract outdoor recreation year-round.
The reservoir was created by damming the River Derwent as part of regional water supply works and has since been integrated into landscape management for conservation and recreation. Control infrastructure and access tracks reflect its combined role for utility and public use.
The reservoir lies in the Peak District of Derbyshire, England, within the Upper Derwent Valley. It sits among upland moors and valley woodlands characteristic of the national park.
- Reservoir system: Forms part of the Upper Derwent Valley reservoir system and is managed for water supply as well as recreation.
How to Get to Derwent Reservoir (Derbyshire)#
Derwent Reservoir is in the Upper Derwent Valley in Derbyshire, accessible by road from the A57 (Snake Pass) or A623. The nearest larger towns are Sheffield (about 25-40 minutes by car) and Hope Valley. There are rural bus services in season; private car or local taxi is the most practical option.
Tips for Visiting Derwent Reservoir (Derbyshire)#
- Walk the western shoreline at dawn when anglers set up for trout fishing - the soft light makes the reservoir's steep sides glow.
- If looking for quieter views, continue past the main dam toward the smaller coves; most visitors cluster near the car parks and picnic lawns.
- Respect local signage: parts of the reservoir are managed for water supply and have restricted access.
Best Time to Visit Derwent Reservoir (Derbyshire)#
Best late spring through early autumn for walking and outdoor activities; autumn colors are exceptional.
Weather & Climate near Derwent Reservoir (Derbyshire)#
Derwent Reservoir (Derbyshire)'s climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 0°C to 19°C. Abundant rainfall (1070 mm/year), wettest in December.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | 0° - 5° | -2° | 112 mm | overcast | 95% | 6.0 m/s | 0.0 low | 7.9h |
| February | Poor | 0° - 5° | -2° | 83 mm | overcast | 93% | 5.8 m/s | 0.1 low | 9.6h |
| March | Poor | 2° - 8° | 0° | 88 mm | overcast | 89% | 5.7 m/s | 0.3 low | 11.7h |
| April | Acceptable | 3° - 10° | 3° | 74 mm | overcast | 85% | 4.9 m/s | 0.7 moderate | 13.8h |
| May | Acceptable | 6° - 14° | 8° | 69 mm | overcast | 83% | 4.5 m/s | 1.0 high | 15.7h |
| June | Good | 9° - 17° | 13° | 79 mm | overcast | 83% | 4.3 m/s | 1.2 high | 16.7h |
| July | Good | 11° - 19° | 15° | 67 mm | overcast | 83% | 4.2 m/s | 1.2 high | 16.2h |
| August | Good | 11° - 19° | 15° | 83 mm | overcast | 85% | 4.1 m/s | 0.9 moderate | 14.6h |
| September | Good | 9° - 16° | 12° | 86 mm | overcast | 87% | 4.6 m/s | 0.6 moderate | 12.5h |
| October | Acceptable | 6° - 12° | 6° | 104 mm | overcast | 91% | 4.9 m/s | 0.2 low | 10.4h |
| November | Poor | 3° - 8° | 2° | 109 mm | overcast | 95% | 5.3 m/s | 0.1 low | 8.4h |
| December | Poor | 1° - 6° | -1° | 116 mm | overcast | 96% | 5.7 m/s | 0.0 low | 7.3h |
