Reservoir Doves

A beautiful scenic route which will take you through a piece of stunning Pennine scenery past Dovestone reservoir, Yeoman Hey reservoir and finally Greenfield reservoir with a few modest climbs and a few descents it shall prove to be a rewarding off-road ride for the old and new rider! Perfect for nature lovers it is surrounded by amazing wildlife, streams, waterfalls and woodland. Along the route is a picnic area at Ashworth Gap with a small pond filled with frogs, newts and pond skaters, there is also a play area in the trees with stepping logs for the kids - perfect for taking a break on the way back. Looked after by the RSPB you will almost certainly see a kestrel or two hovering overhead looking for a next meal.

Ashworth Gap picnic area was once the sight of a gothic mansion 'Ashway Gap House' built in around 1850 as a hunting lodge. In 1905 it was bought by the local waterworks committee who used it for meetings. During world war 1 it was used as an auxilary hospital and held prisoners of war. It finally fell to disrepair and was demolished in the 80's. The rspb along with United Utilities are working together to create a lovely haven for wildlife in the area, look out for the signs on the way round. During a visit in 1981 to attend the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV of Tonga visited Dovestone Reservoir. To commemorate the visit, a carved stone has been set into the dam wall of the Yeoman Hey Reservoir. If this sounds like your cup of tea then the Reservoir Doves is the ride for you