Gawthorpe Maypole and Ardsley Reservoir - 6.5 to 6.75 miles

Starting at Gawthorpe’s magnificent Maypole we will make our way through fields and along the main road up to and around Ardsley Reservoir passing the imposing Water Tower on our return to the start.

It’s a gently undulating walk with only one long incline up to the Reservoir so for that reason it will be at a steady pace and not a slow amble. We will be having a lunch stop at the Reservoir so bring yourself a butty and as we pass the farm shop on the way back to the pub I’m happy to stop off for 10mins if anyone wants to pick up ice creams, drinks or pies / pasties.

There is a small car park behind the pub and parking along that road further on from the other village pub (Shoulder of Mutton). There is also plenty of parking along the High Street and in front of the Darby and Joan Village Hall down towards the primary school.

There are no toilets at the start nor anywhere en route so a ‘wild one’ might be the only option for those in need 😉

The fields are incredibly dry at the moment so trainers or walking shoes are more than adequate if preferred to boots. Stiles are also few and far between (possibly only 2-3).

Dogs are more than welcome and can be off lead for major parts of the walk.

The walk is completely open to the elements so please bring sun creams, hats and plenty of fluids if it’s a hot day.

We will be having an end of walk drink in the Boot and Shoe Pub which has a small beer garden if the weather is decent.

We can't guarantee the finish time. The meetup system means we have to put a finish time on the event but it depends on the pace of the group on the day.
Don't worry about Unpaid by your name, we don't use that system. £1 on the day please.