The best walks and hikes around Hury Reservoir

Yes, the area is well-suited for family outings. The primary trail around the reservoir is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it a great choice for walkers of all ages. The paths are generally well-maintained, consisting of grassy tracks and quiet country lanes with gentle gradients.

Dogs are welcome on the trails around Hury Reservoir. However, the area is surrounded by farmland with grazing livestock, particularly sheep. It is essential to keep your dog on a lead and under close control at all times to ensure the safety of the animals and other walkers.

There is a designated car park available for visitors. A popular starting point is the picnic area located near the dam wall on the south shore, which provides convenient access to the main circular trail.

The most prominent walk is the circular route that loops around the reservoir itself, offering continuous views across the water. For a longer but still moderate circular option, consider the Grassholme Reservoir loop from Romaldkirk, which extends the exploration to a neighboring reservoir.

There are over 90 hiking routes to explore around Hury Reservoir, ranging from easy, family-friendly circuits to more challenging treks through the wider Baldersdale valley. This variety ensures there's a trail for every ability level.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning scenery across the water, the tranquil atmosphere, and the well-maintained, gentle paths that make for a peaceful walking experience.

Yes, the nearby villages offer several options. For a walk that incorporates a pub, you could try the Cotherstone Castle – Fox and Hounds Pub loop from Romaldkirk. The historic town of Barnard Castle is also just a few miles away and has a wider selection of pubs, cafes, and restaurants.

Absolutely. The trails around Hury Reservoir connect to the neighboring Blackton and Balderhead Reservoirs. This allows for an extended hike for those wanting to explore more of the beautiful Baldersdale landscape and its chain of reservoirs.

While the immediate reservoir walk is focused on the waterside path, the wider region is famous for its waterfalls. A short drive away you can visit the highly-regarded Low Force and High Force waterfalls, both offering dramatic scenery. Cauldron Snout, a unique 200-metre long cascade, is another popular attraction for those exploring the North Pennines.

The trails around Hury Reservoir are characterized by a mix of grassy tracks along the shoreline and quiet, paved country lanes. The landscape features the rolling hills typical of the Durham Dales, but the main reservoir loop is mostly flat with very gentle gradients, making it accessible for most walkers.

The reservoir is a popular spot for fly fishing. For wildlife enthusiasts, a bird hide is accessible near the adjacent Blackton Reservoir. The area is also known for its dark skies, making it excellent for stargazing, with the Grassholme Observatory located nearby for those interested in astronomy.