Manchester might be renowned for its grey clouds and typically rainy weather, but did you know it’s also the gateway to some of the finest beauty spots in Britain? From the iconic Peak District, to manmade attractions right here in Greater Manchester, we’ve rounded up the most photogenic water spots such as lakes and reservoirs that are just a short drive from Manchester city centre.
1. Dovestone Reservoir
Situated close to Manchester within Saddleworth Moor, Dovestone Reservoir is undoubtedly one of Greater Manchester’s most impressive beauty spots, boasting a 12.5 mile walk with spectacular views of the Peak District and the water. There’s plenty of grassy areas that are perfect for relaxing with a picnic, and if you’re feeling active, there’s 5-7 hours worth of walking to do around the reservoir. Elsewhere, you can explore Dovestones Edge, which provides incredible panoramic views of the reservoir and moorland, and it’s also close by to Greenfield Waterfall too if you’re really in the mood for exploring.
đźš— Drive time from central Manchester: 41 minutes
2. Hollingworth Lake
Instagram post via @lisajo_elsworth
One of the pretttiest man-made lakes in Greater Manchester is out in Rochdale, the 118-acre water spot features a short 2.5km walk around its perimeter, with water sports and a number of outdoor activities usually taking place in the summer. The leisurely spot dates way back to the 19th century, proving popular with the locals during the Victorian era.
There’s a number of walks you can participate in around the area, including the South Pennine Water Trail, which offers views of the nearby Pennines and follows the Rochdale Canal. So why not enjoy one of the only actual lakes in Greater Manchester?
đźš— Drive time from central Manchester: 33 minutes
3. Chew Reservoir
Instagram post via @paddybradshaw16
A stunningly vast reservoir right at the top of the Chew Valley, Chew Reservoir is the perfect nature spot to visit within the Peak District. The spot provides lovely views of Saddleworth Moor, and joins onto Dovestone Reservoir, which is a three-mile walk away if you wanted to explore both.
The walk is brilliant if you like a bit of a challenge, with some of the walk heading uphill to reach the reservoir. Budding photographers will have a field day with the surroundings, with the old water tank remaining at the reservoir, Chew Valley itself, and Rob’s Rocks nearby.
đźš— Drive time from central Manchester: 47 minutes
4. Butterley Reservoir
Instagram post via @outlawmediaproductions
A picturesque, short walking spot with three reservoirs to discover, Butterley Reservoir can be found in Marsden, West Yorkshire. Surrounded by Blakeley reservoir and Wessenden reservoir, the scenic route is close to Marsden’s traditional village centre which features a number of local amenities as well as quaint homes dotted up and down the hills of the Peak District.
The walking route varies from 2-10 miles depending on how far you’d like to go, and you can turn back at any point to head back to the village – which is well worth checking out during your day trip.
đźš— Drive time from central Manchester: 54 minutes
5. Gaddings Dam
Instagram post via @theharrisons_vanlife
Just a one hour drive from Manchester, Gaddings Dam is a disused reservoir, now more commonly used for swimming. The wild swimming spot is situated on top of a vast area of moorland, with a sandy shore that’ll have you feeling like you’re at the beach. The Dam can be found near traditional market town Todmorden in Calderdale, and is maintained by a group of locals who rescued it from being drained back in 2001.
đźš— Drive time from central Manchester: 53 minutes
6. Yarrow Reservoir
Part of the Rivington chain in Anglezarke, Yarrow reservoir is a breathtaking spot which is joined with two other huge reservoirs, Anglezarke and the Upper Rivington reservoir – with several others nearby.
The tranquil spot features bodies of water at almost every turn, so there’s plenty to see while you’re there. Nearby, visitors can check out the historical Alance Bridge, take spectacular photos at the Anglezarke viewpoint, and even venture a little further towards Bolton to see the Rivington Pike Tower and the Great Ravine.
đźš— Drive time from central Manchester: 43 minutes
7. Jumbles Reservoir
Jumbles Country Park was opened in 1971 by Queen Elizabeth II. Situated north of Bolton and easily accessible via public transport, and a car park on site, it is an ideal location to spend some time outdoors with the family. It lies in the valley of Bradshaw Brook, partly in the Metropolitan Borough of Bolton, Greater Manchester, and partly in Blackburn with Darwen, Lancashire.
Jumbles is a circular walk around the reservoir. The route is relatively easy and flat, with a few short climbs – pushchairs and wheelchairs are suitable for around the reservoir itself. Take the dog for a walk or stop at the lovely Jumbles Country Park Cafe for a brew – the choice is yours.
đźš— Drive time from central Manchester: 45 minutes
8. Entwistle Reservoir
Entwistle is a flat, easy walk, meandering around the reservoir. The trail is a circular loop that hugs the water and is approximately 2.8 miles long, and the flat path means it is a place for everyone; families, dog walkers, runners – anyone who just wants to immerse themselves in the beautiful outdoors.
Entwistle is filled with wildlife and a great bird watching spot all year round, plus the wooded area feels like you’ve crossed over to the German Black Forest, bringing an air of magic to your walk. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the 10 foot steel heron sculpture sitting at the water’s edge!
đźš— Drive time from central Manchester: 50 minutes
9. Pennington Flash
A legacy of Leigh’s proud industrial heritage, Pennington Flash is now rightly recognised as a national treasure and a stunning example of nature in recovery. This beloved Leigh beauty spot is one of eight local sites that make up The Flashes of Wigan and Leigh; the first and only National Nature Reserve (NNR) in the whole of Greater Manchester.
Officially designated an NNR by Natural England in October 2022 in recognition of their remarkable natural beauty and immense ecological importance, these precious wetland habitats were originally and uniquely formed by the ‘flash’ flooding of former coal mining sites. Collectively they are now home to nationally significant wildlife populations including UK’s most endangered small bird, the wonderful willow tit.
Pennington Flash is a favourite with visitors from far and wide, with stunning natural views, bird hides, trails for walking and cycling, a visitor centre and café, and an exciting adventure playground for families.
đźš— Drive time from central Manchester: 42 minutes
10. Audenshaw Reservoirs
Instagram post via @kdnystn
Audenshaw Reservoirs comprise three large stone-lined balancing reservoirs east of Manchester, ideally placed to attract birds on passage across the Pennines. The spot is permit-only for birdwatchers and leisure activities, but in terms of walks, the Audenshaw Reservoir Walk is a 6.1 km looped trail that starts and ends in Tameside, and is rated as easy and flat – you can see over to the reservoirs, but direct access is prohibited.
Given its location, Audenshaw Reservoirs aren’t exactly full of rural tracks, however makes for a fascinating walk around and is easily accessible being just off the M60, and a stone’s throw from Guide Bridge and Denton train stations.
đźš— Drive time from central Manchester: 25 minutes