Staunton Harold Reservoir
Melbourne, Derbyshire
About Staunton Harold Reservoir
Staunton Harold Reservoir is located in the heart of the National Forest, between Derby and Burton on Trent, and was once home to a remarkable range of industries, giving you options for some secret schooling if you like!
It is much more peaceful now, welcoming families with a lot of good work still being done to manage and protect the landscape. It is open all year and free to visit, making it a great place to take the kids, whatever the season and of course all the best bits change alongside the seasons!
There are a number of outdoor and leisure activities available at this wildlife reserve, such as an adventure playground, fishing, bird watching, sailing and cycling, as well as countryside walks for those who want to explore the region. Public footpaths lead to Calke Abbey and beyond to Foremark Reservoir. There is also a Visitor Centre, which includes an information room and overlooks the adventure playground and the spectacular views that surround it.
There is an abundance of wildlife to discover and a gentle walk along the reservoir will take you wildflower meadows to Dinsdale Nature Reserve, which is also open to the public. Information boards, picnic tables, and seats can be found around the car park, visitor centre, and reservoir, so you can really make a day of it and bring a picnic to enjoy.
There are 2 wheelchair accessible picnic tables near Tower Windmill, a Ranger's office, toilets (including disabled), and a Refreshment Kiosk that is open daily between Easter and the end of September.
Opening Times
1st April - 31st October
Monday to Sunday 07:00 - dusk
1st November - 31st March
Monday to Sunday 11:00 - 16:00
Closed 25th December
Pricing & Tickets
Free admission
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
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