Foremark Reservoir

Foremark Reservoir offers 230 acres of open water, woodland and some of Derbyshire's last surviving lowland heath on the edge of the National Forest, owned by Severn Trent and run day to day by the National Trust in the charity's first long-term reservoir partnership. Shaded, tree-lined paths loop along the shore, a blessing on hot days, and a firm-surfaced 2.5km bridleway suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters links onto the National Forest Way; hundreds of moth and bird species have been recorded across the reserve. Dogs are welcome everywhere, off the lead under close control except on short leads near car parks, the playground, picnic benches and the bridleway. Families get an adventure playground and an ice cream kiosk near the main car park. Tips from visitors: the paths south towards Carvers Rocks are rough and hilly so wear proper footwear, and the parking machines take coins only, with the JustPark app as the cashless fallback. Swimming is not allowed.