Free or Low-Cost Outdoor Ideas for Children #13: Reservoirs

Why Reservoirs Make Brilliant Family Days Out

We love a good adventure that doesn’t break the bank – and if there’s one place often overlooked, it’s reservoirs. And if I’m brutally honest, it’s something even I had forgotten, until we stumbled across Whiteadder Reservoir in the summer holidays.

Reservoirs across the country all offer something a bit different. Some are quiet spots for a gentle stroll, while others are full-on hubs for extreme watersports. It’s always worth checking out what your nearest one has to offer. In the meantime, here are 7 things you’ll often find to do at reservoirs around the UK!

7 Things to Do at Reservoirs with Kids

1. Sunken Villages & Forgotten History

If your children love mysteries, exploring the dry edges of a reservoir during a drought can feel like stepping back in time. On a recent trip to Whiteadder Reservoir in East Lothian, we stumbled across bricks, slabs and ruins that hinted at buildings once standing there – and a quick Google confirmed it. The old village of Penshiel was partially flooded when the reservoir was built, and on dry days you can still see glimpses of its past.

And it’s not alone! There are lots of other reservoirs across the country hiding similar secrets. Other fascinating sunken spots include:

Derwent Reservoir (Derbyshire) – Once home to Derwent village, occasionally visible when water levels drop.
Haweswater (Cumbria) – Flooded Mardale Green lies beneath this one.
Capel Celyn (Wales) – A whole village lost to the Tryweryn Reservoir — a powerful story still remembered today.

2. Scenic Walks and Bike Rides

Many reservoirs have walking paths, often circling their perimeter, making them ideal for families – and less risk of someone getting “lost” and sulking 2 miles in. Many of the paths are pram-friendly, bike-friendly, or even link onto longer routes (if your crew is feeling adventurous!) Our old local, Knypersley, is a beautiful reservoir to walk, with seasonal bluebells, a little waterfall, and even a play area for the children.

Some other popular reservoirs:

Carsington Water (Derbyshire) – Lots of walking loops, a visitor centre, and bike hire.
Ladybower Reservoir (Peak District) – Great views and flat paths in places.
Talla Reservoir (Scottish Borders) – Quiet and remote, ideal for short wanderings and wildlife spotting.

3. Picnics

Water + open grass + no Wi-Fi = perfect picnic conditions! And you know I love promoting a good picnic!

Reservoirs often have benches, shaded areas, or wild banks ideal for rolling out a mat. Add sandwiches, crisps, a thermos of tea and some *guess what animal made that noise* and you’ve got hours of fun. Check out our picnic activity post here for more ideas!

4. Wildlife Watching and Mini Beasts

Our boys were entertained for ages at Whiteadder hunting frogs and spotting fish along the water’s edge. Dragonflies, ducks, and birds of prey are often easy to spot – and some reservoirs are managed by wildlife trusts that provide free spotting guides or info boards.

Bring a magnifying glass, bug pot or just your curious eyes – nature does the rest!

5. Low-Cost Watersports & Paddling

Some reservoirs double as outdoor activity centres – with paddleboarding, kayaking, or wild swimming allowed in designated areas (though not all, so always check first!). Whilst the watersports will come at a cost, you can’t beat the fun (and zero-investment) of paddling and swimming as a family, especially on a warm day!

A few places to explore:

Rutland Water (East Midlands) – Has a beach, adventure playground, and water sports.
Bala Lake/Llyn Tegid (Wales) – Wild swimming and paddleboarding heaven.
Stithians Reservoir (Cornwall) – Water activities centre with taster sessions.

6. Fishing (Sometimes Free or Discounted)

Fishing can be a calm and quiet adventure (unless you hook your own sleeve) and some reservoirs offer junior angling days or free family events during school holidays. For the less serious fisherpeople among us, do not underestimate the fun that can be had with a simple net! And if you’re looking for a more unusual idea, why not consider magnet fishing?

Look for:

• Local fishing clubs with guest day passes.
• Reservoirs with “have-a-go” stations or demo days.
• Options to fish with just a junior rod licence in tow.

7. Get Creative: Nature Journals & Photos

Not every child wants to walk – but hand them a camera or notebook and suddenly they’re all in. If you’re looking for ways to get them moving without them knowing, get them to find interesting things to photograph or find something they can draw. Collect your photos and print them off into your own travel journal at home (or get them to start their own blog!)

For younger children, a simple scavenger hunt can keep them entertained for hours!

What to Pack for a Reservoir Day

So now you’ve found your local reservoir, and discovered what’s available, here are some things you might consider packing and bringing along with you:

• Good walking shoes or wellies
• Waterproofs (because it is the UK!)
• A picnic and drinks!
• Bug pot or magnifying glass
• Spare socks
• A towel (just in case!)
• Your camera or phone for pics
• Binoculars if you’ve got some
• Sun cream (you might be lucky!)

Final Thoughts

Reservoirs might not be the first place that springs to mind when planning a family day out, but they’re full of unexpected fun, quiet beauty, and real adventures. Whether it’s a day to go for a paddle, a wildlife adventure, or just somewhere peaceful to eat your sandwiches, they’re worth adding to your adventure list.

Have you got a local reservoir you love? Let us know – we’d love to add more to our adventure map!

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