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Howden Dam

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Lakeside, Mountain, Valley

Walking, Cycling, Photography

Year round

Photo: Steve Fareham via Geograph.org.uk

Howden Dam is the highest of the great stone dams in the Upper Derwent Valley in the Peak District, built in the early 1900s above its near-twin at Derwent. It is faced in rock-cut gritstone, with two castellated towers rising from the dam wall and a neo-Gothic look shared with its neighbour. The re...

8

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

4 day, 4 overnight

The Strines Inn – near Bradfield, The Ladybower Inn, The Old Nag’s Head – Edale

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Howden Dam?
Deep inside the Upper Derwent Valley sits this massive masonry structure surrounded by high, windswept edges. Walkers usually head up the main reservoir tracks to find it waiting quietly in the hills.

What type of place is Howden Dam?
Howden Dam is a historic stone reservoir barrier in the Upper Derwent Valley in England.

When is the best time to visit Howden Dam?
Crisp autumn mornings provide the most atmospheric conditions before the crowds arrive. Heavy winter rainfall also creates a spectacular sight if the water starts cascading over the stonework.

What can you do at Howden Dam?
Active folk love cycling and walking along the rugged waterside gravel trails. Photographers regularly capture the dramatic gritstone towers rising out of the dark water.

How long should I spend at Howden Dam?
Allowing roughly two hours gives you ample time to explore the main paths and appreciate the scenery. Packing a warm jacket helps you extend the trip comfortably if you want to walk further up the valley.

Where do I park at Howden Dam?
Space for eight vehicles exists across four day and four overnight spots nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Howden Dam?
The Strines Inn near Bradfield, The Ladybower Inn, and The Old Nag’s Head in Edale offer three choices for a hearty meal. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Howden Dam?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near Howden Dam, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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