Roddlesworth Reservoirs And Tockholes Plantation

The Tockholes plantations surround the two Roddlesworth reservoirs and are excellent for dog walking. I'd even say the combination of woods with mostly off lead walking, well defined paths, a nice river for the dogs to paddle in, and a fantastic real ale pub at the start/finish (or both!) offers the best dog walk in the area.

There are lots of route options, but our current favourite is to start from the gate opposite the pub (just beyond the bus stop), and head down the steep path towards the reservoirs, then turn right to follow the route anti-clockwise around both reservoirs. The route is only 3.3 miles but it is very enjoyable.

At the next path junction don't head right up the hill - stay ahead and slightly left otherwise you will end up back on the road. Carry on along the path with the reservoir in sight to the left and eventually the main path goes right and up hill fairly sharply. Once at the top of the hill continue along the main path.

If you wish to cut the walk shorter you can turn left across the dam of the first reservoir. If you opt to continue ahead the path meanders through the woods alongside the second reservoir until it turns left across the dam.

Once on the other side of the dam go straight on to leave the main path and cross the bridge above the reservoir overspill channel, then turn left on the narrow path. Follow this path along the southern edge of the reservoir - it is quite muddy but there are boardwalk sections over the boggiest sections.

Eventually the path splits - take the right fork away from the water (rather than heading left through a gate). Continue along this path - again this is rather muddy, but eventually you will reach a tarmac track. Turn left onto the track and follow it past the junction with the path that crosses the dam of the first reservoir, then through a gate. Continue along this path - eventually it will head towards the river that feeds the reservoirs.

At the river turn right and follow the river. right uphill. From here you will head steadily up towards the end of the walk. Just before you reach the road there will be two old stone gateposts either side of the path - around the corner the path will lead straight onto the road with no gate so it's best to put your dog back on the lead here. Cross the road and head left back to the car park for refreshments at the pub (dog friendly, real ale, and roaring fire in the winter) or the cafe (also dog friendly).