Light Hazzles Reservoir: A Tranquil Escape on Blackstone Edge

 Light Hazzles Reservoir: A Tranquil Escape on Blackstone Edge

On May 27, 2025, I ventured out to Blackstone Edge, a magnificent gritstone escarpment on the border of Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire, to explore the serene beauty of Light Hazzles Reservoir. Nestled amidst the dramatic Pennine landscape, this reservoir offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views and a sense of rugged isolation.

The weather was typical for a late spring day in the Pennines – a mix of dramatic clouds scudding across a bright sky, offering moments of brilliant sunshine and moody shadows. This ever-changing light only enhanced the already stunning scenery.

The Journey to Serenity

Our exploration began with panoramic views from higher up on Blackstone Edge. From this vantage point, the vast expanse of Greater Manchester stretched out before us, a sprawling urban tapestry contrasting sharply with the verdant foreground. In the mid-ground, a glimpse of the reservoirs, including Light Hazzles, could be seen, hinting at the tranquillity that awaited.

As we descended towards the reservoir, the vastness of the landscape truly enveloped us, capturing another impressive vista, showcasing the Crook Hill Wind Farm in the distance.

The stark white turbines, set against the rolling hills and dramatic clouds, served as a reminder of the region's commitment to renewable energy, yet somehow felt harmonious with the wildness of the moorland.

Exploring Light Hazzles Reservoir

Upon reaching Light Hazzles Reservoir itself, the sense of peace was immediate. The water, reflecting the shifting clouds, shimmered with an almost ethereal quality, with the path leading alongside it and the prominent electricity pylons marching across the horizon – a testament to the coexistence of nature and infrastructure in these parts. The slightly exposed banks hinted at varying water levels, adding to the rugged charm.

Walking along the well-maintained path that passes the northern edge of the reservoir was a true delight, with the gravel track winding its way beside the water, inviting a leisurely stroll. The gentle ripples on the water's surface and the sparse, resilient vegetation along the banks created a sense of understated beauty.

Further along the reservoir curves gently, revealing more of its expansive waters. The rocky banks, characteristic of the Pennine landscape, add to the natural feel, providing a habitat for various moorland plants. The distant pylons are still a feature, a familiar part of the Pennine skyline.

One of the striking features encountered was a stone structure in the middle of the water, This intriguing element adds a focal point to the wide expanse of water and sparks curiosity about its purpose. Perhaps it's an old measuring station or part of the reservoir's original construction.

The open, unadulterated views across the water and the surrounding moorland emphasize the remote and tranquil nature of this location.

A Highly Recommended Walk

Light Hazzles Reservoir on Blackstone Edge is a fantastic destination for anyone seeking a refreshing escape into nature. Whether you're a keen hiker looking to explore the Pennine Way (which passes nearby) or simply someone who appreciates stunning landscapes and peaceful walks, this reservoir offers it all. The views are expansive, the air is fresh, and the sense of calm is palpable.

Next time you're looking for an invigorating outdoor experience, consider a trip to Light Hazzles Reservoir. You won't be disappointed!

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A Town Holds Its Breath: Sowerby Bridge and the March 2019 Flood Scare

The memories of Boxing Day 2015 are still vivid for many in Sowerby Bridge, a day when floodwaters ravaged the town. So, when days of relentless rain in mid-March 2019 caused the Rochdale Canal and the Rivers Calder & Ryburn to swell, a collective sense of unease, and then alarm, rippled through the community.

On March 16th, 2019, as the water levels steadily climbed, residents watched with bated breath. The fear of a repeat of 2015 was palpable. I was there, documenting the unfolding situation, and captured video clips of that anxious night and the morning after.

The first video, which I've uploaded to YouTube, truly shows the town as the levels were rising. You can see the sheer volume of water and the immediate concern it generated.

And the next 2 show Mearclough Bridge and Sowerby Bridge Cricket Ground on the nights when the levels were rising and the morning after when the rivers were much lower.

Thankfully, by the morning after, the town breathed a collective sigh of relief. The worst had been averted, but the experience served as a stark reminder of Sowerby Bridge's vulnerability to the power of nature.

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Across the Pennines: A Time-lapse Drive on the M62

Ever wondered what it's like to drive across the highest stretch of motorway in Britain? This time-lapse film offers a unique perspective on the M62, specifically the challenging section between West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester. Filmed on September 1st, 2017, the journey begins at Ainley Top and climbs to the dizzying heights of Rishworth Moor, reaching 1221 feet (372 metres) above sea level near junction 22. This monumental feat of engineering, completed in 1970 after years of planning and construction, traverses some of the most unforgiving terrain in the UK. Notice how the clear skies at the start of the film quickly give way to a thick blanket of fog as we approach Saddleworth. This dramatic weather shift highlights the very conditions that plagued the construction of this section of the M62, making it one of the most complex and costly stretches of motorway ever built. The accompanying music, "Cylinder Seven" by Chris Zabriskie, adds an atmospheric layer to this fascinating glimpse into the challenges of building on the "roof of England."

The video was doubled in speed as I was driving a truck, and whilst it may look dangerously close at some points to the Abbey trailer, I wasn't, and at that point he was really struggling for power as we were barely doing 40mph and I couldn't get out to pass.

 

A few notable points of scenery, blink and you'll miss some to look out for, and the time in view,

 

Outlane Junction 23 slip road and Outlane Golf Club 1:30

Scammonden (Rainbow) Bridge 2:42

Scammonden Reservoir and Water Tower 3:01

Rishworth Moor, 3:38

Stott Hall Farm is barely visible to the right of the picture (3:46).

The fog comes into view and reduces the long-range visibility (4:37).

Junction 22 Saddleworth 5:58

Highest Motorway in England, Sign 6:08

M62 Pennine Way Bridge, 6:18

Rakewood Viaduct (Windy Hill) 7:38