4.5
(381)
2,373
hikers
152
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Tunstall Reservoir are characterized by a blend of woodlands, rolling countryside, and open moorland within the North Pennines National Landscape. The reservoir, a central feature, is partially encircled by forests and marshy areas, with paths often following Waskerley Beck. Hikers can expect varied terrain, including farmland paths and forest tracks, with gentle elevation changes. The region offers views of the reservoir and surrounding natural landscapes, including the historic dam.
Last updated: September 27, 2026
4.5
(13)
134
hikers
3.16km
00:50
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(8)
32
hikers
6.01km
01:45
160m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

9
hikers
2.83km
00:44
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
5.29km
01:22
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
7.14km
01:54
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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lovely walk around the reservoir great places for bird watching saw a kingfisher last time i was there.
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A quiet picnic area alongside the Waskerley Beck with lots of parking. A number of walks are possible from here including the Family Walk, an easy circular route on footpaths accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs, 1.5 miles long.
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Nice 3km walk around the reservoir on the lakeside path. It's not far but the path on the east side is quite narrow and rough so fun and adventurous but not so good for buggies & wheelchairs.
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A water supply reservoir completed in 1879, it's now used to help control the flow of the River Wear. There is a nice 2 mile walk around the reservoir which can be linked to a longer walk from nearby Wolsingham.
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On the eastern edge of the tranquil Durham Dales, a warm welcome awaits hikers in Wolsingham. Its stone buildings and period features hint at the towns history and its streets contain various boutiques. The market town is an important stop on the Weardale Way long-distance footpath, which traces the Wear to its source in the Pennines.
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A nice quiet place with a 2 mile walk around it. Paths are a bit bumpy but a good walk
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There are over 60 easy hiking trails around Tunstall Reservoir, offering a variety of routes through woodlands, rolling countryside, and along the reservoir's edge.
Easy hikes around Tunstall Reservoir feature varied terrain, including farmland field paths, forest tracks, and reservoir-side paths. While generally gentle, some routes may have minor elevation changes, offering a diverse walking experience.
Yes, many easy routes are circular. A popular option is the Tunstall Reservoir Circular Walk, which is about 3.2 km (2.0 miles) and takes less than an hour to complete, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
The easy trails around Tunstall Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil environment, the scenic views of the reservoir, and the opportunities for wildlife observation.
Yes, many easy trails are suitable for families. Routes like the Tunstall Reservoir Circular Walk are relatively short and flat, making them ideal for walks with children. The diverse landscapes also provide engaging scenery for all ages.
Yes, Tunstall Reservoir is generally dog-friendly. Many easy trails are suitable for dogs, but please ensure your dog is kept under control, especially when passing through farmland or near wildlife. Always follow local signage regarding leash requirements.
Easy hikes offer views of the reservoir itself, woodlands, and rolling countryside. You might also encounter marshy areas, which are designated nature reserves, and historic features like Backstone Bank Wood, known for its past iron smelt bloomeries.
Yes, you can find easy routes that follow Waskerley Beck. The Path Along Waskerley Beck – Wolsingham Railway Station loop from Wolsingham is an easy 4.5 km (2.8 miles) trail that leads through picturesque riverside landscapes.
Yes, parking is available at various points around Tunstall Reservoir, providing convenient access to the easy hiking trails. Specific parking areas are often indicated at the start of popular routes.
The duration for easy hikes varies, but many can be completed in under 1.5 hours. For example, the Tunstall Reservoir Circular Walk takes just under an hour, while the Tunstall Reservoir loop from Sand Edge Common is around 5.1 km (3.2 miles) and typically takes about 1 hour 30 minutes.
While hiking, you can observe the historic dam of Tunstall Reservoir, which was an early site for cement grouting. The surrounding area also features remnants of past industrial activity, such as those found in Backstone Bank Wood.


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