Hiking Blackstone Edge Reservoir Loop

Sunshine, big skies and a well earned pint

Featured image

Hike Details

⛰️ Difficulty Easy
🚶‍♂️ Crowds Quiet
🐕 Dog Friendly True
🌦️ Conditions Blazing sunshine
🌄 Great Views True
📏 Distance 8 km
⏱️ Duration 2 hours
📈 Elevation Gain 120 m
🎞️ Best Moment The cold one at the Whitehouse pub after the walk
📍 Start Point Car Park near the Whitehouse pub

🥾 Blackstone Edge Reservoir Loop

This was a short but rewarding loop around Blackstone Edge Reservoir, ideal for stretching the legs without committing to a full moorland epic. At around two hours all in, it’s a great option for a morning or early afternoon wander especially when the weather plays ball.

And on this occasion, it absolutely did.


☀️ Conditions & atmosphere

It turned out to be a warm, sunny day, with clear skies and that rare Pennine calm that makes the landscape feel almost gentle. In a moment of questionable wisdom, I headed out without any suncream a decision I paid for later with a bright reminder across my face, arms and neck. Lesson learned (again).

The reservoir itself was looking great, framed by open moorland and wide skies, with just enough breeze to take the edge off the heat. It’s a peaceful spot, and despite being easily accessible, it never feels overcrowded.


🚶 The walk

The route follows well defined paths around the reservoir, mixing stone tracks with softer moorland sections. There’s a gentle amount of elevation gain but nothing taxing just enough to keep things interesting without turning it into a slog.

Views open out across the surrounding hills and down towards the Calder Valley, reminding you just how dramatic this edge of the Pennines can be for such a manageable walk.

It’s a great route for:


🍺 The all important finish

As with many of the best walks, the real reward came at the end. The beer at the pub went down exceptionally well cold, refreshing, and absolutely earned after a couple of hours in the sun. There’s something unbeatable about that first pint after a warm hike, especially when your legs have done just enough work to justify it.


🧭 Final thoughts

This is a simple, scenic and satisfying hike proof that you don’t always need big mileage or brutal climbs to have a great day out. Blackstone Edge Reservoir delivers solid views, easy paths, and a cracking finish if you plan it right.

Just don’t forget the suncream next time 🤦


Blackstone Edge
Blackstone Edge