The best walks and hikes around Fontburn Reservoir

There are over 80 hiking routes available around Fontburn Reservoir, catering to various skill levels. These include 28 easy routes, 45 moderate routes, and 7 difficult trails, ensuring options for everyone from casual walkers to experienced hikers.

Yes, a popular circular walk around Fontburn Reservoir itself spans approximately 5.5 km (3.5 miles) to 6.2 miles, typically taking 1.5 to 2 hours. While the northern shore is generally level, sections of the southern shore can be more undulating and occasionally muddy. For a longer circular option, consider the difficult Simonside and Dove Crag Circular, which explores the nearby Simonside Hills.

The trails offer a varied landscape, including waterside paths, expansive moorland, and woodlands. While some paths are well-surfaced and level, particularly along the northern shore of the reservoir, other sections, especially on the southern shore, can be narrow, undulating, and muddy after rain. Some routes also feature stream crossings that may not always have bridges.

Yes, Fontburn Reservoir is a family-friendly destination. Many trails, particularly the easier sections of the reservoir walk, are suitable for families. The area also features a children's play park and numerous picnic areas with scenic views, making it an enjoyable outing for all ages.

Dogs are permitted on the trails around Fontburn Reservoir, but they must be kept on a lead. Please be aware that certain restrictions may be in place during the lambing season to protect livestock.

Fontburn Reservoir provides essential visitor amenities, including car parks. These are conveniently located for accessing the various walking routes around the reservoir.

Fontburn Reservoir is a designated local wildlife site with diverse flora and fauna. You might spot red squirrels, badgers, roe deer, and various bird species like pied flycatchers and lapwings. Otters have been observed, and reptiles such as adders, common lizards, and slow worms can be seen in warmer months. The area also boasts five native amphibians, including great crested newts.

The reservoir offers attractive views year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for spotting diverse wildlife and enjoying the full bloom of flora. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the woodlands. While winter walks are possible, be prepared for potentially muddy conditions, especially on the southern shore, and check local weather forecasts.

Yes, the trails around Fontburn Reservoir offer glimpses into history. You can walk past the Fallowless burial site, a 3,000-year-old Bronze Age mound, and discover a cup and ring marked rock. An intriguing man-made feature is the shaft spillway, often referred to as a 'plughole,' which helps regulate the reservoir's water levels.

The routes in Fontburn Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 600 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the picturesque blend of waterside paths, moorland, and woodlands, and the opportunities for wildlife spotting.

While many routes are easy to moderate, there are challenging options available. For instance, the difficult Simonside and Dove Crag Circular is an 11.6-mile (18.6 km) path that explores the Simonside Hills, providing panoramic views and a more strenuous experience.

Information regarding direct public transport access to Fontburn Reservoir is limited. Visitors typically reach the area by car, utilizing the available car parks. It is advisable to check local bus services for routes that may connect to nearby villages, followed by a walk or taxi to the reservoir.