There’s something about reservoirs that always pulls me in when I’m travelling in the van. Maybe it’s the stillness of the water, or the fact they’re usually tucked away in places you wouldn’t necessarily stumble across on a regular drive. Upper Linacre Reservoir, near Cutthorpe on the edge of the Peak District, is one of those gems.
I ended up here almost by chance while looking for a quiet spot to break up a longer journey across Derbyshire. I’d heard whispers in the van life community about Linacre being a great place to stretch your legs and soak up some peace. After spending a day exploring, I can honestly say it’s a spot worth seeking out if you’re roaming around in your van.
Whether you’re just dipping your toes into van life or you’ve been living on the road for years, Upper Linacre has that rare combination of easy accessibility, natural beauty, and a calm, unspoiled vibe.
How to Get There
Upper Linacre Reservoir sits just a few miles west of Chesterfield, making it an easy detour if you’re travelling through the Peak District or heading towards Sheffield.
- From Chesterfield: Take the B6050 through Cutthorpe. Signposts for Linacre Reservoirs appear as you leave the village, and the car park is well marked.
- From Sheffield: Head south via Dronfield and Barlow, which is a slightly narrower but scenic route. You’ll weave through farmland and rolling hills before dropping down into the valley.
Parking for Campervans
There’s a dedicated car park right by the entrance. It’s surfaced, reasonably level, and big enough for campervans, although you won’t get away with anything too oversized. Payment is via machine (bring coins or check if your phone signal allows app use).
Overnighting tip: This isn’t an official overnight spot. The car park has clear signs against camping or overnight stays, and it’s regularly patrolled. If you’re in your van, I’d recommend parking up here for the day, then heading to one of the many van-friendly spots around Chesterfield or the Peak District to sleep. A couple of nearby pubs with car parks are known to be welcoming if you ask first.
First Impressions & Atmosphere
Arriving at Linacre, the first thing that hit me was how tucked away it feels. Even though you’re only a few miles from Chesterfield, it has that quiet, almost hidden quality.
The air is fresh and cool, and depending on the season you’ll either get the vibrant greens of summer woodland or a golden, crunchy carpet of leaves in autumn. The water itself is calm and reflective, surrounded by tall pine and mixed woodland.
There’s a soft hum of birdlife all around, with the occasional splash from ducks or geese. On a still morning, the place feels almost like a painting. Later in the day, you’ll often see families, dog walkers, and the odd trail runner, but it never feels crowded.
Things to See & Do
Upper Linacre isn’t about big attractions or visitor centres – and that’s part of its charm. Here are the main things to enjoy:
- Walk around the reservoirs: There are three in total – Upper, Middle, and Lower Linacre – and the trails link them all. A full circuit is just over 5 miles.
- Birdwatching: The woodlands are home to nuthatches, woodpeckers, and tawny owls if you’re lucky. Bring binoculars if you’re into it.
- Photography: The reflections on the water in the morning or late afternoon are brilliant for photos.
- Picnicking: There are a few benches scattered about, but I prefer throwing down a blanket by the water’s edge.
It’s not a place with cafes or facilities, so bring your own snacks and a flask of tea – classic van life style.
Walks and Nature
The walking here is what really makes Linacre special. You can tailor it to your energy levels:
- Short Woodland Loop: A gentle 1.5-mile stroll around Upper Reservoir. Ideal if you just want a quick leg stretch.
- Three Reservoir Circuit: Around 5 miles. Takes in Upper, Middle, and Lower Reservoirs with mixed woodland paths, a few inclines, and some muddy stretches after rain.
- Connecting Trails: Keen hikers can link onto longer footpaths towards Cutthorpe village or even out to the edge of the Peak District.
The paths are well maintained, but some sections can be slippy, especially in winter. Walking boots or sturdy trainers are a good shout.
Wildlife is a highlight here too. I saw grey squirrels darting between trees, herons stalking the water’s edge, and a whole variety of songbirds. In spring, bluebells carpet parts of the woodland, giving the whole place a magical feel.
Interesting Facts & History
Linacre Reservoirs aren’t just pretty faces – they’ve got some fascinating history behind them.
- Built in the 19th century: The reservoirs were originally constructed between 1855 and 1904 to supply drinking water to Chesterfield.
- Victorian engineering: If you wander down towards the lower reservoir, you can still see the impressive stonework of the original dams.
- Name origins: The word “Linacre” is thought to come from Old English, meaning “flax field”, hinting at the area’s agricultural past.
- Managed woodland: Today the reservoirs are looked after by Severn Trent Water, and the surrounding woods are managed for both wildlife and visitors.
Knowing this adds another layer when you’re walking around – you realise you’re not just in a pretty spot, but in a place that’s been central to local life for over a century.
Upper Linacre Reservoir is one of those quiet treasures that fits perfectly into van life travel. It’s easy to reach, simple to explore, and full of natural beauty without being overdeveloped or commercialised.
I wouldn’t plan a week around it, but as a stop-off or a day trip, it’s spot on. Families will love the gentle walks, solo travellers will appreciate the peace, and vanlifers like me will find it a perfect spot to recharge before moving on.
Would I go back? Definitely. Especially in spring or autumn, when the woods are at their most colourful.
If you’re planning a trip through Derbyshire, I’d say add Upper Linacre to your list. It might not be the most famous place in the Peak District, but that’s exactly why it’s worth a visit.
Have you visited Linacre Reservoirs in your van or on foot? I’d love to hear your thoughts and tips – drop a comment or share your own experiences with fellow travellers!
