Foremark Reservoir Circular
Derbyshire
Foremark Reservoir is a peaceful, tree-fringed water tucked between Repton and Ticknall in the rolling farmland of south Derbyshire, part-managed by the National Trust and popular with sailors, anglers and walkers. This dog friendly circular follows the bridleway through Scaddows Oaks Woodland, climbs to the Carvers Rocks Nature Reserve with its views across the reservoir, and returns along the water's edge through the pine and oak plantings.
Dogs are welcome throughout and can be off lead across the quieter parts of the bridleway and in the woodland, but leads are essential around the car park, the picnic area, the playground and anywhere near the water, as dogs are not permitted in the reservoir itself. The going is mostly easy with a couple of steeper climbs onto the rocks, some steps and gates to negotiate. The main car park has toilets, a seasonal kiosk and plenty of bays.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 5.3 km (3.3 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 1 hr 35 min
- Walk Type
- Reservoir, Woodland
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- Toilets and seasonal kiosk at the main car park; dog friendly pubs in nearby Ticknall and Repton.
- Parking
- Paid National Trust main car park by the visitor facilities; free for NT members, busy in summer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Foremark Reservoir Circular dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome throughout this circular walk, which earns a solid 7/10 for dog friendliness. The route takes in Scaddows Oaks Woodland and the Carvers Rocks Nature Reserve, both of which are enjoyable for dogs, and there are dog friendly pubs in the nearby villages of Ticknall and Repton if you fancy a post-walk drink.
Can dogs be off lead at Foremark Reservoir Circular?
Dogs can be let off lead on the quieter stretches of the bridleway and through the woodland, which gives them a good chance to roam. However, leads are required around the car park, the picnic area, the playground and anywhere near the water's edge, as dogs are not permitted in the reservoir itself.
What should I know before visiting Foremark Reservoir Circular with my dog?
The walk is mostly easy going but does include a couple of steeper climbs up to Carvers Rocks, plus some steps and gates to navigate, so it's worth bearing that in mind if your dog isn't the most agile. Parking is in the paid National Trust car park near the visitor facilities — it's free for NT members but can get busy in summer — and there are toilets and a seasonal kiosk on site.
What’s Nearby?
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