FAQ

What are Bewl Water’s opening hours?

Bewl Water is open between 8.00am – 5.00pm Monday to Sunday. The gates to our car park shut at 8.00pm.

How much is car parking at Bewl Water?

Car parking costs £7 for the entire day which can be paid via the RingGo app or at the Waterfront Cafe.

For vehicles other than cars including campervans, horse boxes, minibuses, and coaches, please head to the Waterfront Cafe.

• Horse box – £10
• Campervan – £10
• Minibus – £12
• Coach – £50

Can I swim in the reservoir at Bewl Water?

Our visitors’ safety is our utmost priority; therefore, swimming in the reservoir is strictly prohibited.

Can I bring a BBQ?

Unfortunately, barbeques are not permitted anywhere on site at Bewl Water, however, food is available from the Waterfront Cafe and Ice Cream Parlour. Alternatively, you are are welcome to bring a picnic.

Is there disabled parking?

Disabled car parking at Bewl Water is located to the left of the main car park. You’ll find the disabled parking bays next to the footpath that leads to the Waterfront Cafe.

Is the site wheelchair-accessible?

The main visitor area and the Waterfront Cafe are accessible to wheelchairs. Areas of the path extending from the main car park to both Seven Pound Creek Jetty and Heatherells Jetty are also suitable for wheelchairs with wide tyres.

Can I walk my dog at Bewl Water?

Of course! Dogs are more than welcome at Bewl Water. We kindly ask that dogs be kept under control. Well-behaved dogs are permitted off the lead and inside the Waterfront Cafe. Please ensure you dispose of dog waste responsibly.

Can I bring my own boat?

Unfortunately, you cannot bring your own boat to Bewl Water. Annual memberships for stand up paddleboarding and windsurfing boards can be purchased on our website, along with tickets and boats for fishing.

Canoeing and kayaking must be organised through the Canoe Club.

What investments is Southern Water making to boost the reservoir’s safety and functionality?

Southern Water has allocated a substantial investment of £25 million towards a year-long project aimed at enhancing the safety and operational efficacy of the Bewl reservoir. The Drawdown Project will facilitate a more efficient lowering of water levels when circumstances demand, including periods of intense rainfall or in the event of emergency dam repairs.

Construction is scheduled for completion by the summer of 2024, with efforts being made in collaboration with Southern Water to mitigate any adverse impact on the local community, visitors, and businesses.

Is it possible to walk along the dam path?

Due to the ongoing upgrade of the Bewl Water reservoir, access to the top of the dam will be closed throughout 2024. However, please be aware that diversions have been put in place and the path around the bottom of the dam will still be open for use.