View of Stanford Reservoir
View of Stanford Reservoir
Highlight • Viewpoint
Road cycling
4.3
(13)
The View of Stanford Reservoir offers a serene vantage point over a significant drinking water reservoir situated on the county boundary between Leicestershire and Northamptonshire, near the village of Stanford-on-Avon. At an elevation of 116 metres, this location provides expansive views of the water and its surrounding diverse habitats. The reservoir, fed by the River Avon, is a crucial site for wildlife, particularly birds, making it a notable natural landmark in central England.
Visitors are consistently drawn to the tranquil…
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August 17, 2022
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Best routes near View of Stanford Reservoir
12
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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Details
Informations
Elevation 120 m
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Monday 6 April
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Yes, access to the main grounds of Stanford Reservoir requires an annual permit from Severn Trent Water. However, you can still enjoy picturesque views of the reservoir without a permit from the minor road between South Kilworth and Welford, particularly at the inflow (north-east) end (grid reference SP611811).
For permit holders, parking facilities are available at two locations: one at the Welford Road (inflow) end and another near the dam. These spots offer varied perspectives of the water and its surroundings.
While the reservoir itself is a tranquil natural setting, it's important to note that access to the main grounds requires a permit. The viewpoint from the public road is accessible for families. For walks, consider exploring the surrounding public footpaths and areas outside the permit-required zone, which may offer more suitable options for children.
No, dogs are not permitted on site at Stanford Reservoir. This policy is in place to protect the sensitive wildlife, especially the diverse bird species that frequent the reservoir.
The immediate area around the public viewpoint is generally flat and accessible from the road. For those with permits accessing the reservoir grounds, the terrain includes paths around the water, which are typically easy to moderate. The surrounding landscape features diverse habitats like reedbeds, woodlands, and arable farmland, offering varied walking surfaces.
Stanford Reservoir is a significant site for birdwatching. You can expect to see a wide variety of waterfowl, including Pochard, Tufted Duck, Wigeon, and Coot, especially in winter. During spring and summer, breeding passerines like Sedge and Reed Warblers are common, and raptors such as Hobby and Osprey can also be spotted. The site is also home to five species of bats.
Stanford Reservoir is located near the village of Stanford-on-Avon, and other nearby villages like South Kilworth and Welford. While there are no amenities directly at the viewpoint, you may find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in these surrounding villages or the larger town of Lutterworth, which is about 7km southwest.
Stanford Reservoir was constructed between 1928 and 1930 by the Rugby Urban District Council to supply drinking water to Rugby. It was later enlarged between 1958 and 1959. A notable feature is the disused railway track that adds a touch of historical character to the landscape. The spillway was also substantially reconstructed in 2017 following a flood risk assessment.
The overall length of Stanford Reservoir is approximately 1.8 kilometres (1.1 miles), and its average width is around 300 metres (980 ft). It covers an area of approximately 58 hectares (140 acres).
Stanford Reservoir can be a beautiful spot for winter walks, especially for birdwatching, as large numbers of wildfowl are present. For winter visits, it's advisable to wear warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy, waterproof footwear, as paths can be muddy and exposed to the elements. Layers are always recommended.
Stanford Reservoir continues to serve its original role as a drinking water reservoir. It also functions as a top-up for the much larger Draycote Water reservoir, located about 15 miles (24 km) to the south-west, and is owned by Severn Trent Water.