Fortunate enough to live a relatively short drive away, I am a regular visitor to Ladybower, usually parking in the Pay and Display car park near the Fishery, or for free in the main road, if there are any spaces, and walking across the reservoir dam, past the amazing sink holes, to climb up Win Hill. The Pay and Display car park contains a toilet block with an entrance door which locks shut behind you. This is a bit unnerving if you are not expecting it but it is easy to press the button to gain exit and, if you are a lone woman visiting at a quiet time of the week, does provide a feeling of security.
Once you have crossed the dam and turned right you can continue walking on a level path around the reservoir or, if you have a good level of fitness, follow the steep footpath that leads to Win Hill. As it nears the top of the hill, the path is replaced by a series of fairly steep stone steps but you are rewarded with spectacular views before descending via one of the many the footpaths to walk back alongside the reservoir itself, or continuing on a longer walk to Lose Hill, Back Tor and Hollins Cross. The views are stunning all year round but are particularly beautiful in Autumn when leaves turn golden and bronze and shady banks are dotted with vivid red fairy toadstools. This route is quite popular with walkers, runners and mountain bikers at weekends, but you can find yourself with only the sheep and grouse for company during the week.
