Traffic-free reservoir road benefits walkers, cyclists and horse riders

Visitors to the Derwent dams, near Sheffield, are reminded that the weekend and bank holiday road closure, between Fairholmes and King’s Tree, is in force over the Easter weekend starting on Good Friday 14 April.

The road closure, which has run every year since the early 1980s, means that people visiting the area on Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays can enjoy the tranquil valley without traffic.

The 222 minibus service has stopped running this year, reducing traffic further on the 5-mile route between Fairholmes and King’s Tree. Falling numbers, year on year, of passengers using the service and increased running costs are the reasons for it being withdrawn. Last year just over 1,600 people used the minibus paying £2 each for a ticket, however the real cost of each journey was £6.50, with the remaining cost being met by Severn Trent Water and the Peak District National Park Authority.

Cars with blue badge holders are still able to use the route although people are encouraged to leave their cars at Fairholmes and take advantage of the Tramper scooters that can be hired there from Derwent cycle hire. The National Park and partners are developing more accessible routes in the area to help visitors of all abilities to get out of their cars and enjoy the valley.

National Park Ranger Paul Wetton said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming people to Fairholmes and the Upper Derwent Valley to enjoy the fantastic views and wildlife – there’s something very special about the combination of expanses of water and hills – it’s hard to beat as a backdrop to a walk or cycle ride.

“We ask people to follow the countryside code to enjoy sharing the countryside safely, so please take your litter home, keep the dog on the lead and don’t start fires.”

Hundreds of thousands of walkers and cyclists visit the Upper Derwent Valley to explore the scenic paths and trails around Ladybower, Derwent and Howden reservoirs, take photographs of Derwent Dam’s iconic towers and wall, hire a bike, or discover more about the area in the information centre.

Find out more at www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/derwent