Entwistle Reservoir @ Turton

Located just outside the Village of Turton near Bolton, the reservoir was created by the construction of Entwistle Dam in 1832. A major feat of engineering at 108 ft high and 110 metres long, it was the largest in the UK at the time. Originally built to regulate the water flow to Bradshaw Brook which powered several major cotton mills at the height of the Industrial Revolution, it now serves to provide 50% of Bolton’s water supply.      

Although manmade, the reservoir looks stunning and very natural. It’s tear-drop shaped shores are lined with thick woods of fir trees which are home to squirrel and rabbits which are easily seen at the right time of day.

The walking is of medium difficulty, easy going as the ground is flat wide and well maintained for the most part, which is ideal for walking the Huskies all year round, although it can be muddy and slippery in places.

To do a full circuit is 4.4 miles – a little further if you would prefer to take the popular detour to the Strawberry Duck Pub Restaurant which is excellent and quite close by.