Ardsley Reservoir

Sometimes also know as Tingley Reservoir, or East Ardsley Reservoir due to its location, Ardsley Reservoir is located less than 5 miles from Wakefield in West Yorkshire between Tingley and East Ardsley. It is just under 3 miles away from the M1, and the M62.

In under a 15 minute drive you can also reach other nature walks such as Middleton Park, Wilton Park Batley and The Lofthouse Colliery or just that bit further you will find Oakwell Country Park and Southern Washlands.

Walking and Running

There is a trail that is used for hiking, walking and running that circles the reservoir with a distance of 1.6 miles or 2.6 kilometres. It would take you around 20-30 minutes to walk the whole route depending on your pace. It is also the perfect spot for exploring with young children, and very pushchair friendly.

If running is your thing, several exercise groups use Ardsley Reservoir, such as Woodkirk Valley Wolves and Monday Movers. For more information the running take a look at the Ardsley Reservoir Run Route.

Swimming in Ardsley Reservoir

Although it looks like a great place for a summer dip, swimming is not permitted due to the strong undercurrent.

Fishing

Fishing is unfortunately not permitted at this reservoir. Yorkshire water only allows two of their reservoirs to be fished. Ardsley Reservoir is not included in this list.

Walking The Dog

Dog walkers are welcomed, as long as the dogs are kept on a lead. Bins are provided for waste.

Ardsley reservoir has been around long enough to see the area of Ardsley change and grow. It could definitely tell a few tales!

The reservoir was made in 1880 and fed mainly from upland reservoirs in Ryburn Valley. An emergency feed was created after a drought in 1995, linking the reservoir to underground aquifers in the east.

A large number of trees were cut down from the surrounding areas during World War 2,  and placed across the reservoir to stop seaplanes landing.

Bins dotted around the reservoir, to help keep the area as clean as it can be. There are no toilets on site, but there is a café a few minutes walk away.

Although there is nowhere to get food or drink at the reservoir, there are several places a short distance away.

Beans coffee shop and the Sandwich Box are great places to grab a snack. You also have the Mermaid Fish Restaurant perfect for if you want a takeaway and to chill after your walk.

If you are looking to treat yourself to a sit down meal there is the Chilli Lodge and Gate of India around a 5-10 minute drive from the reservoir serving Indian dishes. Another highly rated restaurant in the area is The Star Inn, offering a cosy atmosphere and a patio with scenic views to admire.

Only a short walk away you have the Hare and Hounds and The British Oak, both with beer gardens and are dog friendly. Just a bit further you have The Bay Horse also with a beer garden to enjoy. Nothing like a walk, followed by some grub and a drink to end the day!

The reservoir is surrounded by good quality paths making it perfect for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Be aware that if it has rained there may be puddles.

The main gate is unfortunately too narrow for an electric wheelchair.

Train

Outwood Train Station – (3.7 miles) 13 min drive and around a 1 hour walk from here. You can also get the bus 425, 427 and WA1 for part of the journey.

Bus

There are two bus stops located near the Ardsley Reservoir entrance. The Haigh Moor Road The Nook and Haigh Moor Road Boyle Hall Farm, both around 0.4 miles away with around a 7 minute walk and accessible via the bus 117 route.

Driving

Towards the west side of the Ardsley Reservoir there is a free car park available, around 0.1 miles away. It is located along the Haigh Moor Road just a few miles away from the M62, A650 and M1 (WF3 1EE). Ardsley Reservoir car park has disabled parking bays and is a short walk to the main entrance of the reservoir.