Cold Hiendley Reservoir: A Walk on the Wilder Side of Wakefield

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of West Yorkshire lies Cold Hiendley Reservoir, a haven for wildlife and a surprising hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts. But this reservoir's history stretches far beyond leisurely strolls.

From Humble Beginnings to Leaky Concerns

Construction on Cold Hiendley began in the early 20th century, primarily to provide drinking water for the growing town of Wakefield. Back then, the reservoir wasn't the only thing getting built. Reservoirs themselves were a relatively new concept, and Cold Hiendley's dam soon faced concerns about leakage. This led to some interesting (and slightly nerve-wracking) engineering feats in the 1990s, where the dam spillway and culvert were reinforced to ensure the continued structural integrity of the reservoir.

A Sanctuary for Nature and Leisure

Thankfully, those days are behind Cold Hiendley, and today the reservoir flourishes as a haven for wildlife. The surrounding woodland provides a habitat for a variety of birds, and the water itself is teeming with fish. In fact, Cold Hiendley is a bit of an angler's paradise, boasting carp that can tip the scales at over 27 pounds!

But Cold Hiendley isn't just for those with a rod and tackle box. The area surrounding the reservoir boasts a peaceful 4.8-kilometer circular trail. Perfect for a leisurely hike or a quick jog, the trail offers beautiful views of the water and the chance to truly commune with nature.

Local Legends and Hidden Gems

While documented history might be slim pickings, Cold Hiendley has its fair share of local legends. Some whispers hint at a submerged village beneath the reservoir's surface, though there's no concrete evidence to support this. More believably, the area around Cold Hiendley was once home to a brickyard plantation, a remnant of Wakefield's industrial past.

So, if you're looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Cold Hiendley Reservoir offers a surprising package. Whether you're an angler extraordinaire or simply seeking a scenic walk, this little corner of West Yorkshire promises a breath of fresh air and a chance to explore a place steeped in history, nature, and maybe even a hint of mystery.

Map of Cold Hiendley Reservoir

I wend by bicycle, but here is a map so that you can make your own plans to visit. This is a Google Map, so allows you to move around and zoom out.