Derwent Reservoir and Dam in Hope Valley, Peak District
Historic reservoir and dam in Hope Valley’s Peak District, blending engineering heritage, wartime legacy, and stunning natural landscapes.
Derwent Reservoir, nestled in the Upper Derwent Valley of the Peak District National Park near Hope Valley, is a historic and scenic water reservoir spanning approximately 1.5 miles in length. Renowned for its impressive Derwent Dam, a striking early 20th-century engineering feat with gothic-style towers, the reservoir offers stunning views, walking trails, and a rich wartime legacy linked to the RAF Dambusters. Surrounded by moorland and adjacent to Ladybower and Howden Reservoirs, it is a tranquil yet dramatic destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Derwent Reservoir
- Hope Valley, GB
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit after heavy rain to witness the spectacular overflow cascade down Derwent Dam.
- Explore the walking trails connecting Derwent Reservoir to Howden and Ladybower Reservoirs for panoramic views.
- Learn about the Dambusters’ WWII training history at the dam and look for commemorative plaques.
- Use Fairholmes Visitor Centre for parking and visitor information when exploring the reservoir.
- Combine your visit with nearby Hope Valley attractions like Mam Tor or Blue John Cavern for a full Peak District experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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By Car
Drive to Fairholmes Visitor Centre car park near Derwent Dam, Hope Valley, with parking fees around £3.50 for 2 hours or £6.00 all day. The car park is well signposted and provides easy access to the reservoir and walking trails.
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By Public Transport
Take a train to Sheffield Rail Station, then a local bus (South Pennine 257) to Bamford, approximately 40 minutes. From Bamford, a 4-mile (6.4 km) walk or taxi ride leads to Derwent Reservoir. Note that bus services may be limited, so check current schedules.
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By Foot
From Bamford village, enjoy a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour walk along marked trails through moorland and woodland to reach Derwent Reservoir. Terrain is moderate with some inclines; suitable for most walkers with reasonable fitness.
Derwent Reservoir location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Derwent Reservoir
Engineering Marvel of the Early 20th Century
Derwent Reservoir, located in Derbyshire's Upper Derwent Valley, was constructed between 1902 and 1916 to meet the growing water demands of nearby industrial cities such as Sheffield and Derby. The reservoir is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) long, covering about 70 hectares, with a maximum depth of nearly 35 metres. The Derwent Dam, a key feature of the reservoir, is nearly 340 metres in length and stands 35 metres high. Designed by Victorian engineer Edward Sandeman, the dam's gothic architecture, complete with castle-like towers, lends the site a distinctive and iconic appearance.Historical Significance and Wartime Legacy
Beyond its practical role in water supply, Derwent Reservoir holds a special place in history due to its connection with World War II. The dam was used as a training site by the RAF’s 617 Squadron, famously known as the “Dambusters,” who practised low-level flights here in preparation for Operation Chastise, targeting German dams. The reservoir and dam thus symbolize both engineering prowess and wartime heroism. Commemorative events and flypasts occasionally honour the squadron’s sacrifice, adding a poignant layer to the visitor experience.Natural Beauty and Recreational Opportunities
Surrounded by the rolling moorlands and hills of the Peak District, Derwent Reservoir offers visitors a peaceful retreat with spectacular scenery. The reservoir’s shores and nearby trails provide excellent walking routes, including paths that connect to Howden and Ladybower Reservoirs. After heavy rains, the dam overflows, creating a dramatic cascade reminiscent of a waterfall, a highlight for many visitors. The adjacent moorlands bloom with purple heather in late summer, enhancing the landscape’s vibrant colors.The Lost Villages and Local Heritage
The creation of Derwent and Howden Reservoirs led to the flooding of two villages, Derwent and Ashopton, which were submerged to make way for the later Ladybower Reservoir. The history of these lost villages adds a layer of cultural heritage and mystery to the area. Nearby, remnants of the workers’ settlement called Birchinlee, or “Tin Town,” where over 1,000 workers lived during dam construction, reflect the human effort behind this monumental project.Visitor Experience and Amenities
The Fairholmes Visitor Centre near Derwent Dam offers parking and visitor facilities, serving as a gateway to the reservoir’s walking trails and viewpoints. The area is well-suited for day trips, photography, and nature escapes. While swimming is not permitted in the reservoir itself, other swimming spots exist nearby. The tranquil atmosphere combined with the dramatic landscape and historical context makes Derwent Reservoir a compelling destination for a wide range of visitors.Environmental and Regional Context
Derwent Reservoir is part of a trio of reservoirs in the Upper Derwent Valley, alongside Howden and Ladybower, collectively supplying water to much of Derbyshire and South Yorkshire. The reservoir’s location within the Peak District National Park ensures protection of its natural environment and promotes sustainable tourism. Visitors can enjoy the blend of industrial heritage, natural beauty, and cultural history in a setting that balances human achievement with ecological preservation.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bamford Edge
7.4 km
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
Carl Wark
13.4 km
Explore Carl Wark, an ancient Iron Age hillfort on a rugged Peak District promontory with sweeping moorland views and rich prehistoric heritage.
The Endcliffe Campus
16.8 km
A vibrant student village blending modern living, social hubs, and green spaces at the University of Sheffield’s Endcliffe Campus.
Lost & Found Sheffield
17.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lost & Found Sheffield, a charming bar and pub with creative cocktails, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Godfrey Sykes Memorial
17.6 km
Victorian design genius immortalised in terracotta—Sheffield's tribute to a master craftsman.
Friesday Belgian Fries
18.0 km
Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
Millers Dale Viaduct
18.1 km
Experience the breathtaking Millers Dale Viaduct on the Monsal Trail, a stunning bridge offering rich history and picturesque views in the heart of the Peak District.
Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet
18.3 km
Explore the rich industrial heritage of Sheffield at Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, where history comes to life in a beautifully preserved setting.
Devonshire Quarter
18.4 km
Sheffield's indie heart: wander Division Street's boutiques, sip in historic pubs, and unwind on Devonshire Green in this urban village gem.
The River Don Engine
18.6 km
Explore the River Don Engine in Sheffield, a fascinating museum celebrating the city's industrial heritage and engineering marvels.
Kelham Island Museum
18.6 km
Uncover the fascinating industrial history of Sheffield at Kelham Island Museum, featuring interactive exhibits, a café, and a unique gift shop.
Kelham Island Walks
18.6 km
Discover Kelham Island, Sheffield’s historic steelmaking heart transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, craft beer, and urban charm.
The Chimney House
18.7 km
Award-winning industrial-chic venue in Kelham Island offering intimate events with exceptional food and warm hospitality in Sheffield.
Crack The Code Escape Rooms Sheffield
18.7 km
Experience the thrill of teamwork and mystery at Crack The Code Escape Rooms in Sheffield, where every game unlocks an adventure.
Kelham Central
18.7 km
Experience modern urban living at Kelham Central, Sheffield's innovative housing development, blending sustainability with community spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Snake Woodland- Forestry England
5.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and peaceful trails of Snake Woodland, a lush forest retreat nestled in the heart of Hope Valley’s Peak District.
Dark Peak Estate
6.4 km
Explore the wild moorlands and gritstone edges of the Dark Peak Estate, a dramatic upland landscape in the heart of the Peak District National Park.
Ladybower Reservoir
6.6 km
A vast Peak District reservoir famous for its dramatic ‘plugholes’, drowned villages and Dambusters history, surrounded by moorland walks and cycling trails.
Edale
7.0 km
Edale, nestled in Hope Valley, is the Peak District’s scenic gateway and starting point of the iconic Pennine Way, offering stunning hiking and rich heritage.
Castleton
8.3 km
Discover Castleton, Hope Valley’s charming village famed for ancient castles, unique Blue John caverns, and stunning Peak District landscapes.
Castleton Visitor Centre
8.4 km
Your welcoming gateway to Castleton’s history, nature, and the Peak District’s breathtaking landscapes.
Mam Tor
8.5 km
Discover Mam Tor, the iconic 'Mother Hill' of the Peak District, offering ancient history, dramatic landslips, and panoramic views over Hope Valley.
Treak Cliff Cavern
8.6 km
Explore a working Blue John stone mine with stunning geological formations and rare minerals in the Peak District.
Kinder Downfall
8.7 km
Peak District's tallest waterfall, famous for its reversed-flow effect during high winds and dramatic moorland setting.
Blue John Cavern
8.7 km
Discover Britain’s rare Blue John stone in Castleton’s spectacular limestone caves, where history and geology intertwine beneath the Peak District.
Peveril Castle
8.7 km
Explore the atmospheric Norman ruins of Peveril Castle, crowned by sweeping views over Castleton and the Peak District’s scenic valleys.
Peak Cavern
8.7 km
Explore Britain’s largest natural cave entrance and historic rope-making cavern beneath Castleton’s iconic cliffs.
National Trust - Dark Peak
8.8 km
Explore the wild, windswept moorlands and iconic gritstone edges of the Peak District’s Dark Peak, a haven for nature and history lovers.
Speedwell Cavern
8.8 km
Explore a historic lead mine on a unique underground boat tour beneath the Peak District’s dramatic Winnats Pass.
Cave Dale
8.9 km
Explore the rugged limestone valley of Cave Dale, where dramatic cliffs frame historic Peveril Castle in the heart of the Peak District.
Essential places to dine
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn
8.2 km
Historic village inn and pub in Castleton offering cozy rooms, hearty English fare, and a warm welcome in the heart of the Peak District.
1530 The Restaurant
8.3 km
Charming Italian restaurant in Castleton offering fresh homemade dishes and vegan options in a cozy historic setting within the Peak District.
Ye Olde Nags Head
8.4 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Castleton offering cozy pub vibes, hearty British fare, and a lively community atmosphere.
The Lamb Inn
13.6 km
Historic 18th-century pub in Chinley offering hearty British fare, real ales, and cozy en-suite rooms near Peak District attractions.
The Pack Horse Hayfield
13.6 km
A Michelin-recommended gastropub in Hayfield serving seasonal British cuisine and local ales in a warm, welcoming Peak District setting.
The Anchor Inn
14.8 km
A classic Peak District pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tideswell.
Derbyshire Eats
15.3 km
Experience refined dining and bespoke catering excellence in the charming village of Tideswell at Derbyshire Eats.
The Merchant's Yard
15.4 km
A charming boutique hotel and award-winning restaurant in Tideswell, blending historic character with seasonal Peak District cuisine.
The Paper Mill Inn
15.7 km
Charming historic country pub and inn in Whitehough, Peak District, renowned for real ales, seasonal food, and warm local hospitality.
Old Hall Inn
15.7 km
A charming Georgian inn in the Peak District offering refined pub dining, cozy rooms, and a warm welcome amid stunning countryside.
The Little Mill @ Rowarth
15.7 km
A welcoming country inn in Rowarth offering cozy rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and scenic Peak District charm.
The Horse & Jockey
15.8 km
A cozy, traditional village pub and B&B in Tideswell offering hearty meals, warm fires, and comfortable rooms in the Peak District.
Rafters Restaurant
15.9 km
Discover Sheffield’s refined modern British dining at Rafters, where rustic charm meets innovative flavors and impeccable service.
Borgo Antica Osteria
16.0 km
Experience authentic Italian hospitality and cuisine in Sheffield’s warm and welcoming Borgo Antica Osteria.
NO NAME
16.4 km
An intimate, creative bistro in Sheffield’s vibrant Crookes suburb offering bold flavors, cozy vibes, and BYOB dining Wednesday to Saturday evenings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Causeway Shop
8.3 km
Discover unique gifts and cozy café delights in the heart of Castleton’s picturesque Hope Valley at The Causeway Shop.
The Original Blue John Craft Shop
8.3 km
Discover unique handcrafted Blue John jewellery and gifts in Castleton’s charming craft shop, celebrating Derbyshire’s rare gemstone heritage.
The Outdoor Shop
8.4 km
Your essential outfitter for quality outdoor gear and clothing in Hope Valley, perfect for Peak District adventures.
The Old Barn
8.5 km
A practical outdoor and gift shop in Castleton’s Market Place, perfect for stocking up before exploring the Peak District’s hills and caves.
Outside.co.uk
11.5 km
Your essential outdoor clothing and equipment shop in Hathersage, offering expert gear and a cozy café for Peak District adventurers.
Pookie - Wookie Ltd
11.7 km
Handcrafted artisan ceramics by a mother-daughter duo in the scenic Hope Valley, perfect for unique and meaningful gifts.
Bluebird’s Nest UK
15.1 km
Handpicked gifts and treasures in the heart of the Peak District's historic market town.
Antique and Unique
15.1 km
Three decades of authentic antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of the Peak District.
Delightful Living
15.4 km
Discover unique artisan gifts in the heart of Eyam’s historic craft centre, blending heritage with handcrafted charm.
Annie Jude's Ltd
16.4 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of Hillsborough at Annie Jude's Ltd, Sheffield’s beloved independent shop.
Space 205
16.4 km
Whimsical gifts, decadent chocolates, sparkling jewelry, and expert framing in Sheffield's Crookes—a treasure trove of creative delights awaits.
The Walkley Press
16.6 km
Explore The Walkley Press in Sheffield for unique gifts, handmade crafts, and local art that capture the essence of your visit.
The Village Store
16.7 km
Discover The Village Store in Sheffield: Your go-to convenience stop for snacks, drinks, and local treats in a cozy atmosphere.
Gifted
17.2 km
Discover Sheffield's premier spot for unique gifts and artisanal treasures on vibrant Ecclesall Road South—perfect for thoughtful finds.
The Stock Exchange
17.3 km
A compact, curated women's boutique in Hunters Bar offering distinctive clothing and accessories in a friendly neighbourhood setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ladybower Inn
5.9 km
A cozy 3-star inn in Hope Valley offering hearty pub meals, friendly hospitality, and scenic access to Ladybower Reservoir and Peak District trails.
The Old Nags Head
6.8 km
Historic 16th-century country pub at the start of the Pennine Way, offering rustic charm, real ales, and hearty fare in Edale’s scenic Peak District.
The Rambler Inn
7.2 km
Cozy stone-built pub and inn in Edale, offering hearty fare, local ales, and a warm welcome for Peak District hikers.
Bulls Head, Castleton
8.3 km
Historic pub and cozy inn in Castleton offering traditional British fare, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Peak District.
The Castle
8.4 km
A historic pub in Castleton offering hearty British fare, scenic views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Hope Valley.
The George
8.4 km
Traditional British charm meets cozy comfort in Castleton’s welcoming pub with rooms, great food, and scenic Hope Valley views.
The Barrel Inn
13.6 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
The Bull at Foolow
14.5 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
Star Inn
15.4 km
A classic Peak District pub in Tideswell offering hearty pies, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming village setting.
The George Inn
15.4 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
Red Lion Inn
15.9 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
The Edge Bar
16.8 km
Vibrant University of Sheffield bar buzzing with pub grub, craft drinks, pool, darts, quizzes, and live sports in the heart of student residences.
Wildcard Bar and Grill
17.1 km
Sheffield's ultimate sports bar: 40+ screens, giant Jumbotron, epic American grill, shuffleboard, pool, and cocktails in luxury style.
The Dark Horse Bar
17.2 km
Sheffield's cozy fusion of pub warmth, cocktail flair, and burger bliss on vibrant Ecclesall Road—perfect for craft drinks and casual nights out.
The Harritt wine bar
17.4 km
Cozy Sheffield wine bar with exceptional selections, cheeseboards, and personal service on vibrant Ecclesall Road – ideal for intimate evenings.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
