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- Scar House Reservoir
About Scar House Reservoir
This stunning reservoir built in the 1930s from over 1 million tons of masonry stands 55 metres tall above the River Nidd and is a popular spot for walkers, cyclists and sightseers. Building the reservoir in such a remote spot necessitated not only the building of a railway up the valley but also a temporary village to house the workers who built it.
The village included a cinema and post office, and the remains of both the village and the Railway can still be seen next to the reservoir which is accessed by road from the village of Lofthouse that follows the track bed of the now dismantled railway.
Stargazing at Scar House Reservoir
The car park at Scar House Reservoir has been designated a Dark Sky Discovery Site with a 'Milky Way' rating meaning it has skies so dark the Milky Way can be seen with the naked eye.
In relation to Scar House Reservoir
Scar House Reservoir Walk
Walk the edge of Nidderdale’s most famous reservoir, crossing the immense… Walk the edge of Nidderdale’s most famous reservoir, crossing the immense Scar House Dam with its teetering viewing platform (not for vertigo…
Scar House Cycle Route
Scar House Walking & Cycle Routes are a permissive bridleway loop… Scar House Walking & Cycle Routes are a permissive bridleway loop around Yorkshire Water’s Scar House Reservoir which comes to 4 miles and…
Frequently asked questions
- What is Scar House Reservoir and what’s the experience like?
- Scar House Reservoir is an upland reservoir in Nidderdale, North Yorkshire; visitors can expect wide moorland views, the impressive dam structure and peaceful walking routes suitable for a day visit.
- Where is Scar House Reservoir and how do visitors reach it from nearby places like Middlesmoor and Lofthouse?
Scar House Reservoir sits in upper Nidderdale close to the village of Middlesmoor; it is reachable by a narrow road from the village of Lofthouse, or by walking or mountain biking a few miles over the moors from Middlesmoor, and then descending a steep track.
- What should I bring or wear for a walk at Scar House Reservoir?
Wear sturdy walking shoes or boots and bring warm, waterproof layers for changeable upland weather, plus water and a map or GPS when exploring tracks that are not immediately following the perimeter of the reservoir.
- Are there walks around Scar House Reservoir suitable for families and dog walkers?
The tracks and paths around Scar House Reservoir and along the dam provide relatively straightforward walking on established routes, making them well suited to family groups and dog walkers looking for scenic outings in Nidderdale. There are livestock, and wild nesting birds so dogs should be kept on a lead.
Nearby businesses
The Crown Hotel, Middlesmoor
'The Pub on the Hill', the Historic Crown Hotel, invites you to relish in… 'The Pub on the Hill', the Historic Crown Hotel, invites you to relish in traditional home-cooked meals and savor local hand-pulled beers. Retreat to…
How Stean Gorge Chalet Lodges
Rustic lodges nestled amidst green rolling hills in the stunning Yorkshire… Rustic lodges nestled amidst green rolling hills in the stunning Yorkshire Dales. Set beside How Stean Gorge
How Stean Gorge Campsite, Bunkhouse and Bunk Barn
Nestled in one of England's 5 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty,… Nestled in one of England's 5 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Nidderdale in the Yorkshire Dales.
How Stean Gorge Cafe & The Vista View Bistro
Tasty modern food is served here within the leafy café setting in the… Tasty modern food is served here within the leafy café setting in the Yorkshire Dales.
