4.4
(842)
7,072
hikers
490
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Healey offer access to the diverse landscapes of the region, characterized by the expansive Derwent Reservoir and surrounding woodlands. The area features gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for accessible walks. Hikers can explore varied terrain, from waterside paths to forest trails, providing opportunities to experience the natural environment.
Last updated: October 3, 2026
4.4
(14)
244
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(12)
220
hikers
6.21km
01:38
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(2)
34
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
3.72km
00:59
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Overlooking Derwent Reservoir, Slaley Forest is home to a selection of forest roads which give you access to the forest. Open all year, the forest is a great location for a leisurely woodland walk or bike ride.
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great little tea room recommend scones with jam
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Tower and overflow when the reservoir is too full
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Boat Shack no longer exists :( Apparently it’s being turned into a wedding venue.
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A fun friendly cafe serving snacks, cake, drinks and meals. Located in the Pow Hill Country Park above Derwent Reservoir it's a great place to begin or end a walk and support a local business. Open seasonally, just weekends in the winter but more days in the summer and school holidays so do check before visiting facebook.com/boatshackdurham
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This reservoir is an ideal spot if you want to enjoy a pleasant run and step on different terrains, as you can easily go around the reservoir. From this dam, you can observe it in all its splendor from one of its ends. It's important to note that entering the water for unauthorized swimming or just for a quick cool down is not allowed.
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Healey offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 250 routes suitable for relaxed walks. The area is known for its gentle elevation changes and accessible paths, making it ideal for all skill levels.
Yes, many of the easy trails around Healey are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the View of Derwent Reservoir – Derwent Reservoir loop from Burnhope Burn SSSI is a popular 4.8-mile circular route, and the Derwent Reservoir loop from Pow Hill Bog offers another easy circular option.
The easy trails around Healey are generally family-friendly due to their gentle nature. The Derwent Waterside Park – Derwent Reservoir loop from Burnhope Burn SSSI is a shorter 2.3-mile route, perfect for families with younger children, offering pleasant views and easy terrain.
Many easy trails in Healey are suitable for dogs, especially those around the Derwent Reservoir and through woodlands. Always keep dogs under control, particularly near livestock or wildlife, and check for any specific local restrictions or signage.
Easy hikes in Healey primarily feature the expansive Derwent Reservoir, offering beautiful waterside paths. You'll also encounter tranquil forest sections and gentle hills, providing a diverse natural environment with opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
The duration of easy walks varies depending on the route length. Shorter loops like the Derwent Waterside Park loop can be completed in under an hour, while longer routes such as the View of Derwent Reservoir loop might take around two hours.
Spring and summer offer pleasant conditions with blooming wildflowers and warmer temperatures. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can be serene, though some paths might be muddy or icy. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Yes, the region is rich with natural and historical points of interest. You can explore the Derwent Reservoir itself, or discover other highlights like Hisehope Reservoir and Sikehead Dam and the Jeffrey Smelt Mill chimney. For panoramic views, consider visiting Bolts Law Trig Point or Red Kite Viewpoint.
For easy hikes in Healey, comfortable walking shoes or boots are recommended, especially as some paths can be muddy after rain. Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather, and bring a waterproof jacket, even on sunny days, as conditions can change quickly.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 600 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the tranquil reservoir paths, the beauty of the surrounding woodlands, and the accessibility of the well-maintained easy trails.
While specific public transport routes directly to trailheads can vary, many easy hikes around Healey are accessible from nearby villages or towns that have bus services. It's advisable to check local bus timetables for connections to areas around the Derwent Reservoir.
Yes, there are often facilities available near popular starting points for walks, particularly around the Derwent Reservoir. These may include visitor centers, cafes, or picnic areas, providing convenient stops before or after your hike.


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