Over the years we have gathered quite a fondness for exploring reservoirs, and the North East has some pretty awesome ones to visit. Some also have various walks leading off and you can potentially spend the day on an adventure. Here are some of our favourites to visit.
Tunstall Reservoir
We have been visiting Tunstall Reservoir for many years now and it is just stunning.
Completed in 1879 it is now used to maintain the flow into the river Wear, Situated in the North Pennines not far away from Wolsingham. We have walked here in different weather and it can be extremely muddy and slippery, pathways are rocky and narrow in places.
*Picnic tables in the main car park
*Portaloo is sometimes available in the main car park (not the last time we visited)
*Suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs only on the dam and the west side of the reservoir. The further you get from the dam it becomes extremely difficult terrain.
*Ducks in the main car park along with a fishing lodge
*Closest shops are in Wolsingham
*Take a camera because some of the views are spectacular
*Wear walking boots if you plan on going through the woods (We are avid walkers and speak from experience)
Derwent Reservoir
Derwent lies on the border between Durham and Northumberland and is one of the biggest inland waters in England.
*Toilets available
*Play area
*Picnic tables
*Dog field
*Accessible pathways
*Various walks to take
Selset & Grassholme Reservoir
Selset Reservoir was built in 1960 to supply water to Teesdale, it is also used for Sailing. Selset runs into Grassholme reservoir.
*Car park
*Picnic area
*No facilities
*Various walks
Fontburn Reservoir
Fontburn was built in the 19th century to provide water to Southeast Northumberland It has lots of reptiles including, Adders, Grass snakes, Lizards & lots more.
*Parking charges apply (see photo for prices)
*Toilets - Round the back of the Fishing shop
*Play area
*Picnic benches
*Not suitable for Wheelchairs or Pushchairs, the path becomes very narrow and there's lots of slippery tree roots. Also steps in some places. (On the circular walk)
*We recommend sturdy footwear
Balderhead & Hury Reservoir
One of a chain of three reservoirs, built to increase supply to Teesdale & Teesside.
*Parking available at either end
*Park on the road and walk through Hannah's meadow, through the fields and round Balder head.
*Above option will take you at least 3 hours to walk
*Good terrain but cattle grids to cross
*No facilities
Kielder Reservoir
Kielder Reservoir is the largest artificial lake in the UK, planned in the 1960s.
*Various car parks
*Toilets at various car parks
*Various stops along to enjoy
*Woodland walks
*Various food outlets
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