WHY GO
Walk from Fairholmes to the twin-towered dam, where reservoir scenery meets the story of the RAF's Dambusters practice flights.
Derwent Dam makes an impressive destination in the Upper Derwent Valley. Its two stone towers frame the reservoir, and the wall is especially dramatic when water spills over it. In 1943, RAF 617 Squadron used the valley to practise the low flying required for the Dambusters raid. A short walk from Fairholmes brings you to interpretation panels at the dam, while longer routes continue beside the water and through the surrounding woodland.
Before you set out
Details and coordinates can be incomplete or out of date. Check current access, conditions, weather and your route with the site operator before travelling. This is not live navigation or emergency guidance.
Plan a safe visit
Editorial review: 30 October 2026. Conditions may change.
Approach
From Fairholmes, follow the signed tarmac paths down to the road, turn right across the bridge, then take the path through the gap beside the gate to the base of the dam. The National Park lists 600 m to the dam tower; the western tower memorials are about a 10-minute walk from the main car park.
Walking time from arrival (one way)
10 minutes (approximate)
Terrain & steps
Tarmac paths and a short section of road shared with local traffic. The route to the top of the dam climbs a hill; the reservoir-side route levels out beyond the gate.
Accessibility
The National Park calls the 600 m route 'Access for All', while its Fairholmes visitor page says wheelchair access reaches about 100 m from the dam base with good views. Confirm the exact endpoint for individual access needs before visiting. Accessible parking and a toilet are available at Fairholmes.
Access & restrictions
Fairholmes car park is pay-and-display; Severn Trent accepts cash, card and RingGo, but mobile signal is limited. Car parks are open in daylight, may close in extreme weather and do not allow overnight parking. Dogs are welcome on leads. The former National Park visitor centre is closed, though other facilities remain.
Facilities
Fairholmes car park, toilets with baby-change provision, refreshment kiosk, picnic area and bike hire. Face-to-face visitor information at the former National Park centre is closed.
Seasonal considerations
The wider site is open year-round except Christmas Day; car parks operate in daylight and may shut in extreme weather. Toilets usually close around 5pm in winter and 7pm in summer, depending on staffing. The dam is most dramatic when water cascades over it.
Sources & further reading
The references behind this entry. Use current site guidance for visiting arrangements.