Blithfield Reservoir is located just outside of Rugeley in Staffordshire, UK. You’ll find it off the B5014 just past Abbots Bromley if you’re coming from Lichfield or Rugeley. There are several circular routes you can try, these are all well signposted with pretty easy terrain. These are our favourite Blithfield Reservoir walks to try this weekend if you’re local to the area. If not, why not bookmark this page and head back when we can all travel again.
The 790 acre Blithfield reservoir is owned and managed by South Staffordshire Water who acquired the land in the 1930’s. The reservoir took 6 years to build and was opened by the Queen Mother in 1953. You can download a map and route guide for three Blithfield Reservoir walks here.
Make sure you join the Marvellous Midlands Walks Facebook Group where you can share your favourite routes, photos and recommendations for walks in the Midlands. It’s also a great place to ask for recommendations and find inspiration for your next hike.
Blithfield Reservoir Blue Route
Starting with the easiest walk, the short blue route. This takes you from the main carpark, across the entrance and into the woods, eventually looping back across to a great view of the reservoir and back down to the Carpark. This walk should take you around three quarters of an hour and part of it is suitable for wheelchairs and buggies. The accessible part is not a loop so you’ll just have to turn around and retrace your steps. It starts at the bottom end of the carpark. Personally whilst this section is definitely accessible in dry weather, when it’s wet the mud may be too much to get through on wheels.
Once you get through the first section of woodland you need to cross the access road then through another gate to continue the blue route towards the reservoir. This bit is where it gets steep and the worst section of the trail for mud.
My favourite part of this walk is the Dell bird feeder station and hide found halfway around the trail. It provides some amazing views across the water and you’re bound to see some stunning wildlife.
Blithfield Reservoir Walks – the Red Route
If you’re after a slightly longer walk then you should try the red route. This one takes in a boardwalk across the marshland and a fair few hills. Probably not best for buggies or those who may struggle with steep gradients. It will take you around an hour to complete and is probably the best option for wildlife lovers. There are many Bird Feeder Hides and a dragonfly pond which is bound to entertain the kids. There are signs along the way detailing what insects and creatures you can spot along the route which is great for keeping little ones engaged on the walk.
I love this section of the reservoir, although you won’t get up close to the water you’ll come across some amazing views of the lake.
The trees keep this trail pretty sheltered making it one of our favourites for a rainy day but it can get super muddy during autumn and winter. If you visit in spring the woods come alive with the prettiest carpet of bluebells.
Finally the Yellow Route
The yellow route is currently closed for maintenance, I’ll update when it is open.
My favourite of all the routes is the longest yellow route. This can be completed in around an hour and a half. But we always take a hot drink and a picnic so spend a lot longer. This one covers most terrain and can be extended by adding in the red route at the end.
This is the route that will take you right to the waters edge. It’s not the Caribbean but it can feel a bit like a beach trip in the summer months.
You start this trail by following the beginning of the blue route out of the carpark towards the main entrance. This is well signposted and you will begin your walk through the woods. Once through you’ll come to a small access road with a gate to your right where you’ll enter some beautiful meadowland.
This is stunning in summer as it comes alive with colourful wildflowers and insects. Keep going until you hit the waters edge then following the lake until you reach another bird feeder hide and a toilet. Keep going till you reach a bench which is a great place to stop and take in the view or have a picnic to recharge. Then it’s back away from the water across more fields and through some woodland back to the carpark.
Facilities at Blithfield Reservoir
There aren’t really any facilities at Blithfield reservoir. No where to get a coffee or buy food so make sure to bring your own. Over the summer months you’ll often find an ice-cream van on the dam just a short drive from the carpark.
If you fancy adding a pub meal at the end of your walk then the lovely village of Abbots Bromley is just 5 minutes drive away. It’s home to several pubs and a lovely deli.
There is a toilet located half way round the yellow route although I have known this to be out of use. Please note the yellow route is currently closed so there are no public toilets at Blithfield reservoir.
How to get to the Blithfield Reservoir Walks
These three walks all start in the same place, at the car park on Newton Hurst Road. This is signposted Blithfield Education Centre and walks. If you’re coming from Abbots Bromley, head out of the village towards Uttoxeter. Then it’s the second left onto Newton Hurst Road and up there for 3/4 mile until you reach the car park on your left. Take care on this road, it’s quite narrow with plenty of potholes.
Parking for the walks
There’s a reasonable sized free carpark off Newton Hurst Road. This is also where you’ll find a map of the various routes so it’s worth taking a snap of this before you head off.
Blithfield Reservoir Walks with dogs
These are great walks for dogs, there are plenty of safe areas they can run off the lead, loads of new smells and sticks to chase in the wooded areas. Please make sure to pick up after your dog and use the bins provided at the carpark. You’ll find a dog waste bin and a regular bin at the bottom of the carpark where you’ll end all three routes.
If you enjoy your walks with bodies of water then you’ll also love this circular route at Middleton Lakes in the West Midlands.
Make sure to pin for later for your next walk at Blithfield reservoir.
Very useful/informative website
Thanks! Really glad it’s helped.