Upper Coldwell Reservoir

The water here sits in a proper moorland setting, dark and still against the Pennine hills. Upper Coldwell Reservoir isn't the kind of place you'd stumble upon by accident - you have to mean it, which is exactly why it works. The walk in takes you through working farm country, past stone walls and across open ground where the wind tends to have something to say. The reservoir itself is functional rather than showy: a working water supply, not a beauty spot engineered for tourists. That's rather the appeal.

Walkers get the most from it, especially those doing longer circuits across the moorland. The views back towards the valley are decent, and on a clear day you can see proper distance. It's the kind of place where you actually notice weather - grey skies make it brooding, sunshine catches the water and lifts the whole mood. Allow a couple of hours if you're taking it as a destination walk, though you could pass through in half that if you're linking it to other routes. There's no visitor infrastructure, so bring what you need.

If you're based at Trawden Forest Glamping or Higher Grange just down the road, this works as a cracking morning excursion before heading back for coffee. It's less about views and more about the walk itself - genuine moorland, no crowds, actual peace. Not for those after manicured attractions, but absolutely worthwhile if you like your Lancashire wild.