Tittesworth Reservoir sits near Leek in Staffordshire, on the boundary of the Peak District National Park. At 190 acres and just over a mile in length, it is the second largest reservoir in Staffordshire by volume, holding 1.4 billion gallons of water. The reservoir was originally constructed in 1858 by damming the River Churnet, then enlarged to its current size in 1963 by raising the dam height. Water flows in from the Upper River Churnet and the site is owned and managed by Severn Trent Water.

The primary access point for paddlers is Tittesworth Water Sports and Activity Centre, located on the west side of the reservoir. This purpose-built facility offers self-launch options, craft hire (canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards), and instructed sessions. Paddlers launching their own craft must bring and wear their own buoyancy aids or PFD belts at all times on the water and jetty. The centre has capacity to accommodate up to 140 people on the water simultaneously. On the opposite, east side of the reservoir, Severn Trent operates a visitor centre with a café and a 4-mile walking circuit around the water.

The backdrop of the Roaches — a gritstone edge rising to over 1,500 feet — provides a prominent visual feature from the water. The reservoir and surrounding area support over 200 recorded bird species, including geese, herons, ospreys, and flycatchers, with several nature reserves in the vicinity.

Wind conditions on the reservoir vary and influence craft choice. In calmer conditions, canoes and SUPs are commonly used; when wind picks up and waves develop, sit-on-top kayaks are considered more suitable due to their stability and self-draining design. The location on the edge of the Peak District means weather can be variable and changeable.

Tittesworth Water Sports and Activity Centre is a British Canoeing Delivery Partner and holds the British Canoeing Quality Mark, offering courses ranging from beginner taster sessions through to Paddle UK Personal Skills Awards and instructor-level qualifications. The Severn Trent visitor centre car park charges apply, with fees ranging from £3.50 for up to two hours to £7 for all day, and an annual permit available for £49.