Pateley Bridge & Nidderdale - Dales

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.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.

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?

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.

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