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United Kingdom
England
North East England

Romaldkirk

Easy hikes and walks around Romaldkirk

4.6

(663)

3,944

hikers

129

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Romaldkirk are situated within the scenic Teesdale countryside, part of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by rolling hills, expansive moorlands, and meadows, all traversed by the River Tees and its tributaries. The landscape features traditional drystone walls, wooded areas, and several reservoirs, providing diverse terrain for outdoor exploration.

Best easy hiking trails around Romaldkirk

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Hury Reservoir Circular Trail, a 3.0 miles (4.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 15 minutes to complete. This route offers views of Hury Reservoir and the surrounding open countryside.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is View from Balderhead Dam – Blackton Reservoir loop from Hannah's Meadows SSSI, an easy 4.4 miles (7.2 km) path. This trail provides views of Balderhead Dam and Blackton Reservoir, traversing open moorland.
  • Local hikers also love the Fox and Hounds Pub – The Old Chapel Café loop from Cotherstone, a 2.6 miles (4.2 km) trail leading through village surroundings and riverside paths, often completed in about 1 hour 7 minutes.
  • Hiking around Romaldkirk is defined by riverside paths along the River Tees, trails around large reservoirs like Hury and Balderhead, and routes through rolling hills and moorland. The network offers options for various ability levels, with a strong focus on easy hiking trails.
  • The routes in Romaldkirk are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 650 reviews. More than 3,900 hikers have used komoot to explore Romaldkirk's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 2, 2026

4.8

(10)

53

hikers

#1.

Hury Reservoir Circular Trail

4.84km

01:15

20m

20m

Embark on an easy hike around the tranquil Hury Reservoir, a perfect escape into the North Pennines AONB. This circular route spans 3.0 miles (4.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 77 feet (24 metres), making it accessible for most. You can expect to complete the journey in about 1 hour and 14 minutes, enjoying calming scenery of open water, rolling hills, and traditional stone-walled meadows. The path offers pleasant views across the reservoir, including glimpses of the distinctive Goldsborough hills.

When planning your visit, note that the paths around Hury Reservoir are generally well-marked. However, some sections can become muddy, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is advisable. The route is dog-friendly, allowing your canine companions to join the adventure. You will also find convenient picnic areas, particularly on the south shore near the dam wall, perfect for a break or a packed lunch.

The Hury Reservoir Circular Trail provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the serene beauty of the local dales. The reservoir itself is a significant feature of the landscape, offering a peaceful backdrop for your walk. As you hike, you will pass the impressive Hury Reservoir Dam, a notable landmark on the route. This trail stands out for its blend of natural beauty and easy accessibility, making it a popular choice for a relaxed outdoor experience in the region.

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Chris
May 5, 2025, The Old Chapel Café

Open 10-4 everyday except Tuesday. Great coffee and cake, bacon/sausage butties. Enough bike parking for a group ride, plus a maintenance station with pump and tools. Walkers, runners, kayakers and dogs all welcome!

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Chris
October 29, 2024, The Old Chapel Café

Fantastic place to stop for lunch, or coffee and cake. Safe bike-parking round the back. Open 10-4 every day (closed Tuesdays).

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Blackton Reservoir is a beautiful stretch of water that is home to a great deal of wildlife. The area around the western end of the reservoir is protected as a nature reserve. Nearby, Hannah's Meadows has been designated as a site of special scientific interest due to them having many species of grass and herbs which are threatened elsewhere.

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Among the three reservoirs, Balderhead is the one located furthest to the west. It takes its waters from the River Balder, a tributary of the River Tees, and was built in 1961.

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51m
January 8, 2024, Hury Reservoir Dam

Hury reservoir was completed in 1892. It's the lowest in a series of three reservoirs on the river Balder designed to control the river flow and provide water to the people and industry of Teesdale.

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What3Words Location = ///beam.hindered.glorious

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The footbridge over the narrow tail end of Hury Reservoir below the dam of Blackton Reservoir. A useful alternative to crossing the dam.

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51m
December 17, 2022, Hury Reservoir Dam

Hury reservoir was completed in 1892. It's the lowest in a series of three reservoirs on the river Balder designed to control the river flow and provide water to the people and industry of Teesdale.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Romaldkirk?

Romaldkirk offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with over 45 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, the area boasts more than 125 hiking routes for various abilities.

Are there any easy circular walks in Romaldkirk?

Yes, many of the easy trails around Romaldkirk are circular. For example, the Hury Reservoir Circular Trail is a popular 3-mile loop offering views of the reservoir. Another option is the View from Balderhead Dam – Blackton Reservoir loop from Hannah's Meadows SSSI, which is an easy 4.4-mile path around two reservoirs.

Are the easy hiking trails around Romaldkirk suitable for families with children?

Absolutely. The easy trails in Romaldkirk are generally well-suited for families. They often feature gentle gradients, well-maintained paths, and interesting sights like reservoirs and riverside sections. Routes like the Hury Reservoir Circular Trail are particularly good for a family outing.

Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in Romaldkirk?

Most easy hiking trails around Romaldkirk are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the scenic Teesdale countryside with your canine companion. However, always keep dogs under control, especially near livestock, and be mindful of local signage, particularly in nature conservation areas or during nesting seasons.

Are there any waterfalls accessible on easy hikes near Romaldkirk?

While some of the most dramatic waterfalls like High Force require a slightly longer walk, you can find picturesque cascades like Low Force Waterfall, which is often part of circular walks from the Bowlees Visitor Centre. Summerhill Force and Gibson's Cave are also nearby and can be included in walks that take in Low Force.

What kind of natural attractions or landmarks can I expect to see on easy hikes?

Easy hikes around Romaldkirk offer diverse natural attractions. You'll encounter the River Tees, rolling hills, and traditional drystone walls. Many routes feature large reservoirs such as Grassholme Reservoir, Blackton Reservoir, and Hury Reservoir Dam. The historic Wynch Bridge, a Grade II-listed chain suspension bridge, is also a notable landmark on some riverside paths.

Where can I park when starting an easy hike in Romaldkirk?

Parking is generally available in Romaldkirk village, often near the church or local amenities. For routes starting further afield, such as those around the reservoirs, designated car parks are usually provided. Always check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees.

What is the best time of year for easy hiking in Romaldkirk?

Spring and summer are ideal for easy hiking in Romaldkirk, with wildflowers in bloom and generally milder weather. Autumn offers beautiful changing foliage. Winter walks can be stunning, especially after snowfall, but require appropriate gear and caution due to potentially colder, wetter, or icy conditions.

Are there any easy walks that include a cafe or pub stop?

Yes, some easy walks are designed to pass through villages or near establishments where you can stop for refreshments. The Fox and Hounds Pub – The Old Chapel Café loop from Cotherstone is a prime example, offering a pleasant walk with options for a break.

What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Romaldkirk?

The easy trails in Romaldkirk are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 650 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet, scenic beauty of the Teesdale countryside, the well-maintained paths around reservoirs, and the charming village atmosphere.

Are there any easy trails that follow old railway lines?

Yes, sections of disused railway lines in the Teesdale area have been converted into footpaths. These provide flat, easy walking routes that connect villages and offer a unique perspective on the landscape, often with historical interest.

What are the typical landscapes I'll encounter on an easy hike in Romaldkirk?

On an easy hike around Romaldkirk, you'll typically experience a mix of landscapes. These include serene riverside paths along the River Tees, open meadows, rolling hills, and expansive moorland. Traditional drystone walls are a common feature, and you'll often find wooded areas adding to the scenic diversity.

What makes the North Pennines AONB special for easy hiking?

Romaldkirk's location within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) means you're guaranteed access to breathtaking scenery and quiet paths. The AONB protects a diverse landscape of rolling hills, moorland, and river valleys, providing a tranquil and naturally beautiful setting for easy walks without demanding terrain.

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