BOARDWALK BRIDGE, LINACRE RESERVOIR WALK
This easygoing five mile walk in the Peak District is a true hidden gem — featuring incredible views, no crowds, and a stunning village
Start: Holmebrook Valley Country Park, S41 8XP
Distance: 5.51 miles
Duration: 2 hours
Elevation: 400 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Navigation: Follow step-by-step on komoot, or download GPX file
Route highlights:
Linacre Reservoirs
There are three reservoirs at Linacre, built between 1855 and 1904 and, between them, they hold more than 240 million gallons of water. The reservoirs are surrounded by fields and bluebell woods.
A network of trails and footpaths crisscross the valley surrounding the reservoirs, and Holme Brook cascades through as it makes its way to Chesterfield. The paths are well edged and you can make up any length of walk you like. Part of the trail around the Upper Reservoir crosses the water on a boardwalk (parents with children should take care as it has no railing).
In spring, the woods surrounding the Reservoirs are carpeted with bluebells and they were, at one time, coppiced - information boards explain how coppicing worked. You can find many oak trees, along with beech, alder (which likes to keep its feet wet), larch and pine. Conifers are often planted next to reservoirs for two reasons. They keep away farm animals which might pollute the water and, after a few years, they can be sold for timber.
Barlow village
Barlow Village, nestled in the scenic Derbyshire countryside near Chesterfield, is a haven for walkers and food lovers alike. Surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, the village offers a range of walking trails that take you through tranquil woodlands, across open fields, and alongside peaceful streams. After a refreshing walk, visitors can enjoy a variety of local cafés and pubs, such as the popular Barlow Woodseats Hall café or the traditional Hare and Hounds pub, both offering hearty meals and homemade treats. Barlow's proximity to stunning walking routes, including paths leading to the nearby Linacre Reservoir and the Peak District National Park, makes it an ideal destination for those looking to combine outdoor exploration with a relaxing café stop.
Barlow Sunflowers
Barlow Sunflowers is a delightful spot in Barlow Village, Derbyshire, where you can immerse yourself in fields full of beautiful sunflowers. Open from mid-July to later September, this sunflower trail offers stunning views and the chance to pick your own sunflowers and wildflowers to take home.
It’s a fantastic way to spend a summer day, with the best blooms usually seen in August. The trail is typically open daily from 10am ‘til sunset, though it’s a good idea to check their website for any updates. Entry is £3 per person, free for children under 12. Barlow Sunflowers is just a short 5 minute drive from the start of this walk — meaning you can take a bit of nature home with you after your stroll.
Where is Linacre Reservoir?
The start of this walk is located just a short walk away from the Linacre Reservoirs, at Holmebrook Valley Country Park.
Getting to the starting point
Public transport
From Manchester:
Train: Take a train from Manchester Piccadilly to Chesterfield (about 50-60 minutes).
Bus: From Chesterfield station, catch the Stagecoach bus number 77 or 11 to the park (10-15 minutes).
From Sheffield:
Train: Take a train from Sheffield to Chesterfield (around 30 minutes).
Bus: From Chesterfield station, take the Stagecoach bus number 77 or 11 to the park (10-15 minutes).
Arriving by car
If you’re travelling by car, you’ll find plenty of parking at Holmebrook Valley Country Park (S41 8WE).
Food and drink
Cafés
The Café at the Croft: Located at 200 Newbold Road, this café offers light meals, snacks, and coffee in a cosy setting.
Café No. 5: Found at 5 Market Hall, it’s a charming spot for coffee and light bites.
Cuttthorpe Farm Shop: At Cuttthorpe Lane, this farm shop has a café that serves locally sourced food and homemade treats, and it’s a great spot for a meal or a coffee. You pass this farm shop towards the end of this walk.
Pubs
The Victoria Hotel: Situated at 19 Newbold Road, this traditional pub serves classic pub meals and drinks.
The Peacock: Located at 16 Brimington Road East, this pub offers a range of traditional dishes and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. You’ll pass this pub towards the latter end of the route.
🧭 Following the route
I use OS Maps and komoot for offline navigation. To follow this walk step-by-step on komoot, simply click this link or download the GPX file and upload it to your chosen app, such as OS Maps.
Fancy giving this one ago? Check out our full guide on Instagram
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