High in the peaks, surrounded by stunning countryside in the Upper Derwent Valley of the Peak District you’ll discover a large reservoir named Ladybower. Built somewhere between 1935 and 1943, to help with the water demand for the nearby industrial towns, Ladybower was officially opened by King George VI on 24th September 1945.
Today Ladybower Reservoir has become an established place to visit for outdoor lovers, mainly because of its stunning location, viewpoints such as Bamford Edge and circular walks accessible to all.
The best thing about Ladybower walks is the access. Everyone is able to enjoy the splendour and great outdoors this gem provides and what’s more its dog friendly and you can hire motorised wheelchairs and bikes too!
This popular circular walk is 5.5 miles it will take roughly 1-2 hours and has well-made tracks. There are no stiles or kissing gates just some regular gates.
Beginning and ending at Fairholmes Visitor Information Centre, this is the best place to park. It’s operated by the Peak District National Park and there is a small charge with proceeds going towards maintaining the facilities. There are toilets, a café and a gift shop at the Visitor Information Centre too. Once you have arrived at the car park, the reservoir and walk are signposted for ease, but the well-made track will also lead the way.
After your jaunt around the reservoir I’m sure you’ll be ready for some good local food. Three places we recommend all within a 30 minutes’ drive and located on The Chatsworth Estate include, The Devonshire Arms at Beeley, The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley and The Cavendish Hotel at Baslow.
The Devonshire Arms at Beeley with its AA Rosette rating offers an array of local ales and gins. The food is locally sourced and one dish not to be missed is their venison loin with beetroot, salsify, fondant potato, blackberries, granola and jus.
It’s good to know they are dog friendly, just make sure you pre-book your table in advance.
The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley is a dog friendly cosy pub with a big personality. Offering scrumptious dishes including their famous Taylor’s Beef Burger, with bacon, Monterey Jack cheese, and chips and also their warming roasted butternut squash soup with toast and Parmesan… delicious! It’s advisable to pre-book a table beforehand.
For those seeking some opulence, you must visit the renowned Cavendish Hotel at Baslow and pre-book one of their scrumptious afternoon teas. Indulge in their sweet homemade cakes/pastries alongside finger sandwiches and traditional scones served with freshly brewed tea or coffee! And if you’re coming for a special occasion why not upgrade to their Champagne afternoon tea?
