This 8 mile circular around the beautiful Carsington water is perfect for the whole family. Whether you take the bikes, a picnic or just have a gentle walk around the waters edge, its a beautiful day out for everyone.
What to expect
This path is stoned all the way around which makes it a great option for bikes, pushchairs and wheelchairs, as it follows the reservoir there aren’t any big climbs on this one, making it perfect for a gentle stroll on a nice day.
There are birdwatching hides and information barns at various points around the reservoir as well as toilets dotted around.
Getting there & parking
There are multiple car parks that can be used for this walk but we found the Sheepwash bridge car park to the the cheapest, not by a lot but if you’re doing the circular, it doesn’t matter where you park, use Postcode DE4 4PS, you will see road signs directing you to parking.
The route
The route takes you all the way alongside the reservoir, there will be options to pull off route slightly to check out the many hides for birdwatching and information barns telling you more about the area, but its a simple loop and as long as you keep the reservoir close, you can’t go far wrong.
Tips & what to bring
Good footwear and waterproofs, if you get caught out in the rain here, theres no shortcut back to the car. There are many benches along the shoreline and grassy banks that would be nice for a picnic on a dry day.
Eat & drink nearby
There is a cafe at the visitor centre although we haven’t eaten here before, It’s also only 2 mile from the quaint village of Wirksworth, and a little further drive out, you’ll find the towns of Matlock or Ashbourne.
Places to stay nearby
Pair this walk with somewhere we have stayed and rated nearby.
More walks near here
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