Howden Reservoir is the uppermost of three reservoirs in the Upper Derwent Valley, straddling the border between Derbyshire and South Yorkshire in the Peak District. It has a distinctive Y-shaped form, with the county boundary running through the middle of the reservoir along the original course of the River Derwent. The longest arm extends approximately 1¼ miles (2.0 km), making it a relatively compact water body. The reservoir is bounded at its southern end by Howden Dam, below which the River Derwent flows directly into Derwent Reservoir and then Ladybower Reservoir. Primary inflows include the River Derwent, River Westend, Howden Clough, and Linch Clough.

Kayaking is among the recreational activities associated with the Derwent Valley reservoirs, which collectively attract around 2 million visitors per year. Road access runs along the western shoreline, with parking available at the end of the road near postcode S33 0BB. Paddlers should be aware that this road is closed on weekends and bank holidays, which significantly affects vehicle access to the northern end of the reservoir. A 16.4 km footpath loops around both Howden and Derwent Reservoirs for those combining paddling with walking. The Upper Derwent Visitor Centre, located near Derwent Dam to the south, provides toilets and a café and may serve as a useful reference point when planning a visit to the area. The reservoir is surrounded by gritstone moorland and conifer woodland, characteristic of the Upper Derwent Valley landscape.