River Washburn at Blubberhouses

As tends to be the case with small settlements in the Pennine valleys, Blubberhouses' scenic attraction is accompanied by the knowledge of the region's hard industrial past. The name 'Blubberhouses' is thought by some to have originated from the weeping of destitute children as they trudged to the flax and linen mills to start a tough day's work. Much of the labour here was made up of waifs and strays plucked from local workhouses.

However, it may be that the 'blubber' refers to the babbling of Hall Beck and the River Washburn, as they cascaded downstream. Today, the tranquil water courses, windswept moorland and the four scenic reservoirs are what attract hikers to this beautiful part of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Awesome little hike around the resivour. Can get muddy in places especially in winter also is very popular with dog walkers and families on the weekends. Some amazing views of surrounding countryside and wildlife. Take some bird seed to feed the wildlife on route.

Cracking location from which to explore. Reasonably well-sized car park at Blubberhouses. Head south to walk around Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs along very easy and well-maintained tracks, or even better, head north up the River Washburn for a serene woodland walk along the babbling river's edge, to eventually pop out at the very imposing face of Thruscross Reservoir dam.