Carsington Water

Carsington Water is a reservoir operated by Severn Trent Water, located in Derbyshire, on the doorstep of the Peak District National Park. It is an area with a good amount of wildlife, with a Wildlife Centre and bird hides along the route. The walk itself is relatively easy, in terms of level walking through fields and woodland.

Starting Point: Main visitor centre car park for Carsington Water, near Ashbourne, Derbyshire (Postcode: DE6 1ST).

Approximate Distance: The full circular route around Carsington Water is approximately 8 miles (13 km). Shorter, waymarked trails of 1, 3, and 5 miles are also available, focusing on different sections of the reservoir and surrounding land.

Estimated Time: 3.5 - 4.5 hours for the full 8-mile loop at a steady pace. Shorter trails will take 0.5 - 2.5 hours.

Walk Description (Focusing on the full 8-mile circular):

1. From the Visitor Centre: Start at the main visitor centre, where you can find maps, information, cafes, shops, toilets, and watersports hire. The main circular trail is well-signposted from here.

2. Choose Your Direction: You can walk the 8-mile loop in either direction. The path closely follows the shoreline of the reservoir for much of its length.

3. Waterside and Woodland Sections: The route alternates between open sections with expansive views across the water, and more sheltered stretches through mature and newly planted woodlands on the reservoir's banks. You'll cross over the impressive dam wall at the southern end.

4. Points of Interest: Along the way, you'll pass bird hides, Stones Island (accessible via a causeway when water levels allow), various sculptures, and information boards about the reservoir's construction and wildlife. The path also takes you through or near areas like Millfields and Sheepwash.

5. Shorter Waymarked Routes: If not tackling the full loop, look for the clearly marked shorter trails (often colour-coded) that explore specific areas like the Wildlife Centre, Paul GISTRATION (a memorial woodland), or Hopton an

Walk Detail:

1 Starting at the Visitor Centre, head southward, with the reservoir to your left. Follow the path on past the sailing club, with signs pointing toward Millfields.

2 Continue along the dam wall and walk across Millfield Car Park (which has a small refreshment station and toilets). If you continue on the path at the edge of the reservoir and cross over a footbridge. Walk on the footpath to your left (yellow route option).

3 Once you reach Upperfields Farm, look out for a right turn at a gate, to follow a path signposted to Hopton.

4 Your walk continues on through some woodland, eventually reaching a gate which leads onto the B5035 road. Take a left here, before following the road along and cross over the road, turning right. Follow on up the path opposite, leading to the road through Hopton village.

5 Take a left and follow the road through Hopton and onto the village of Carsington. Once you pass by the pub, you will need to turn left to proceed down the lane behind it. Before you reach the school, turn right to walk up a lane and continue straight on when it breaks.

6 The lane will see you re-join the B5035, which you will need to cross and follow on the path ahead of you before turning to the left, and then right. If you then walk across Sheepwash Car Park, and follow on the path ahead of you. Reamin on the main path next to the reservoir, and passing the Wildlife Centre, which will lead you back to the beginning point of the walk.

Highlights:

• A long and rewarding circular walk around a large, scenic reservoir.
• Well-maintained, mostly flat multi-user track suitable for various abilities.
• Excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with numerous hides and diverse habitats.
• Stunning views across the water and surrounding Derbyshire countryside.
• Good visitor facilities at the main centre, including cafes, shops, and watersports.
• Several shorter, waymarked trails for less strenuous walks.

Tips for Your Walk:

• Severn Trent Water Site: Check their website for Carsington Water for the latest visitor information, parking charges, facility opening times, and any specific notices (e.g., regarding water quality or events).
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or trainers are fine for the main circular track. Waterproof footwear is better for any woodland offshoots.
• Cycle Hire: Available at the visitor centre if you prefer to cycle the route.
• Popularity: A very popular destination, especially on weekends and holidays. Car parks can fill up.
• Exposure: Large sections of the path are open and exposed to the elements; be prepared for sun, wind, or rain.

Carsington Water offers a superb day out with excellent walking and cycling routes in a beautiful Derbyshire setting, well-equipped with visitor amenities.

Grid Reference: SK 240516
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