Exploring the countryside at Staunton Harold
Find a slice of idyllic countryside at Staunton Harold, a 210-acre reservoir with woodland walks, abundant wildflower meadows and spectacular views. From walking and water sports to wildlife spotting, find out what there is to see and do on your visit to Staunton Harold here.
Spring at Staunton Harold
Discover new life at Staunton Harold this spring, as buds burst open with blossom and the wildflower meadows come alive.
Spring walks
As nature springs to life, get outdoors and soak up the sights and sounds of spring on a stroll around Staunton Harold.
Wildflower walk
This 2.5km (1.5-mile) scenic walk takes you along the reservoir bank and wildflower meadows. The lower tarmac path is suitable all year-round for little legs, wheelchairs and buggies. Follow the yellow waymarkers along the wildflower walk.
The wildflowers meadows start to stir over spring, brightening the landscape with a cheerful display of yellow cowslips and yellow rattle from April to May.
Staunton Harold circular walk
This 2.5km (1.4-mile) circular walk enjoys reservoir views and wildflower meadows, with some stiles, slopes and muddy ground when wet. Take a photo of the map when you arrive at the car park and follow the waymarkers along the route.
Staunton Harold to Calke Abbey
Take in views of the reservoir, arable fields and woodland on this 2.7km (1.7-mile) walk to nearby Calke Abbey, where you can continue to explore, or return along the same route back to Staunton Harold. There are some stiles, slopes and muddy ground when wet along this walk.
Blossom
Bathe in the beauty of blossom at Staunton Harold this spring, with several varieties to admire around the reservoir. Head out on a walk and then enjoy a moment of reflection or a picnic beneath the pretty petals.
The vibrant pink cherry blossom near the windmill makes for a lovely photograph once it reaches full bloom in early March.
Head to Dimminsdale car park in early March to soak up showers of blackthorn and cherry blossom and then enjoy a peaceful walk around the old limestone quarry.
Bluebells
From April to May each year, a carpet of bluebells takes over Spring Wood Nature Reserve, casting the woods with a wash of blue.
Park at Dimminsdale car park and then enjoy a short walk to the woods to admire the display, just remember to stick to the paths and keep dogs on leads so we can continue caring for these delicate blooms.
Top things to see at Staunton Harold
Staunton Harold is a 210-acre countryside space, home to one of the largest reservoirs in Derbyshire. At this hidden gem you'll discover wildflower meadows, woodland habitat, industrial archaeology and nature reserves, along with spectacular views across open water.
Top things to see include the Tower Windmill, which dominates the skyline, a children’s play area for family days out and sweeping views across the reservoir.
At nearby Dimminsdale, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, you’ll find open water ponds where quarrying excavations once mined for lead and limestone. Look out for derelict lime burning kilns and other industrial features hidden among the vegetation.
Visiting with a dog?
Staunton Harold is a great place to visit with your four-legged friend, with woodland walks, meadows and open countryside to explore.
Please note that dogs aren't allowed in the water to protect them from unseen dangers in the reservoir and blue green algae.
Activities on the water
Fancy getting out on the water? Staunton Harold Sailing Club offers a variety of water sports from sailing activities to windsurfing and paddleboarding, with training available for beginners of all ages.
The tranquil reservoir is also an ideal fishing spot, with around 2.2km of bank fishing available.
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Sailing at Staunton Harold
Fancy a day on the water? Staunton Harold Sailing Club offers a variety of water sports at Staunton, from sailing activities to windsurfing and paddleboarding, with training available for beginners of all ages. All launching of watercraft must be done through the sailing club.
Fishing at Staunton Harold
The tranquil surroundings of Staunton Harold make an ideal fishing spot, with around 2.2km of bank fishing available.
Visiting Staunton Harold with your dog
Find out everything you need to know about visiting Staunton Harold with your dog, including the best walks to explore, the dog-friendly café and the canine code.
Eating at Staunton Harold
The café is open every day serving a range of hot and cold drinks, light bites, sandwiches and sweet treats. Dogs are welcome inside the café, with dog treats and essentials available to buy. Seating is available indoors and outdoors.
