Stocks Reservoir Circular
Lancashire
Stocks Reservoir sits in the Forest of Bowland AONB in the Hodder Valley, a large body of water surrounded by rolling Lancashire farmland and pockets of woodland. This 10.5km circuit follows the reservoir shoreline on well-established paths, with views across the water to the fells beyond and a mix of open shoreline, woodland edge and quiet farmland track. The reservoir supplies water to much of Lancashire, and the surrounding landscape has a quiet, unspoiled character typical of the Bowland fells. With 302 metres of cumulative climbing as the path rises and falls around the water, there is more hill character here than the gentle start suggests.
This is a satisfying dog friendly walk that works well year-round on reliable paths. Off-lead potential is limited as the route crosses farmland where livestock grazes, so leads should be kept on through the pastoral sections. The reservoir provides water access at several points, and the woodland edges carry good scent from leaf litter and damp earth. The open shoreline sections give views across the water and a sense of space. The paths can be muddy after rain, particularly on the northern shore. Parking is available at the Stocks Reservoir car park. The Inn at Whitewell, a short drive along the Hodder Valley, is one of Lancashire's finest dog-friendly pubs. A reliable reservoir circuit with genuine Bowland atmosphere.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 10.5 km (6.5 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 3 hr
- Walk Type
- Woodland, Reservoir
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- Car park, Toilets, Cafe
- Parking
- Gisburn Forest car park (BB7 4TS) - £8 all day; Stocks Reservoir School Lane - £3 all day
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stocks Reservoir Circular dog friendly?
Stocks Reservoir Circular is a solid choice for dogs, earning a rating of 8 out of 10. The 10.5km circuit offers a good mix of open shoreline, woodland edges and farmland tracks, with water access at several points along the reservoir. It works well year-round on reliable, well-established paths.
Can dogs be off lead at Stocks Reservoir Circular?
Off-lead opportunities are limited on this route, as the path crosses farmland where livestock grazes , leads should be kept on through those pastoral sections. That said, the woodland edge and shoreline stretches offer plenty of interest for dogs, with good scent from leaf litter and damp earth, and easy access to the reservoir water.
What should I know before visiting Stocks Reservoir Circular with my dog?
The paths can get muddy after rain, particularly on the northern shore, so it's worth coming prepared with appropriate footwear. Parking is available at two nearby spots , Gisburn Forest car park (BB7 4TS) at £8 all day, or Stocks Reservoir School Lane at £3 all day. If you're looking to round off the walk with a drink, The Inn at Whitewell is a short drive along the Hodder Valley and is regarded as one of Lancashire's finest dog-friendly pubs.
School Lane Car Park, School Lane, Dalehead, Slaidburn, Lancashire, BB7 4TS
54.0020, -2.4104
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