Derwent Valley and Reservoir Walk

Derwent Valley and Reservoir Walk is a 4.6-mile (7.4 km) loop from Fairholmes, linking the road by Derwent Dam, Ladybower Reservoir, the former village of Derwent and Derwent Reservoir. Allow about two and a half to three hours. This is a proper half-day walk rather than a level reservoir stroll: you get water, woodland, farmland and open moorland in one circuit, with the best long views after the climb.

Start toward Derwent Dam, then follow the water and the old village site before climbing through fields towards Pike Low. A short detour drops to a bridge and an information panel about Derwent, most of which was flooded when Ladybower Reservoir was built. The Lodge and schoolroom are the main buildings left above the old village site. Higher up, the path crosses moorland above Mill Brook and passes the Scots pine shelter belt before reaching the derelict Bamford House. Derwent Dam is another highlight: its distinctive towers are tied to the Dambusters story, because 617 Squadron practised low-level flying here before the 1943 raid.

The ground changes constantly. Expect road and firm track near the reservoirs, then rough field and woodland paths, gates and stiles, exposed roots, muddy grass and a steep section with loose rock. The climbing is concentrated in the middle of the loop, and the reward is the open view back over the reservoirs and the High Peak. This is a moderate walk, but it is not a smooth waterside circuit. Dogs are allowed only on leads throughout, because the route crosses farmland and moorland used by wildlife and grazing animals.

Start at Fairholmes Car Park / Upper Derwent Visitor Centre, where you will find paid parking, toilets, a refreshment kiosk or café and bike hire. There is no drinking-water point listed on the route, so Fairholmes is the useful facilities stop. The road north of the car park has recurring weekend and bank-holiday vehicle restrictions. For a photo, frame Derwent Dam’s twin towers with the water and heather slopes, then use the higher ground near Bamford House for the wide reservoir-and-valley view. If you want a flat reservoir wander, choose a different signed walk from Fairholmes; this loop earns its extra effort through the old village and moorland section.