Top 7 Lakes around Arkengarthdale

Arkengarthdale is primarily characterized by the Arkle Beck, its main waterway, and numerous gills (steep-sided valleys with streams, often featuring waterfalls). While large natural lakes are not prominent, you will find several reservoirs and tarns, such as Blackton Reservoir and Birkdale Tarn, which offer beautiful aquatic landscapes.

Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Blackton Reservoir is noted for its beautiful waters and wildlife, making it a pleasant visit for all ages. The area around Hury Reservoir Dam is also considered family-friendly, offering a chance to see a significant man-made structure in a natural setting.

The water features, particularly the Arkle Beck and its gills, are integral to the dale's rich mining heritage. The landscape still bears marks of centuries of lead mining, including water management systems used in techniques like 'hushing' to expose lead-bearing veins. Reservoirs like Hury Reservoir were constructed in the late 19th century to control river flow and supply water to the region's industries and population.

Absolutely. You can enjoy walks around the reservoirs. For instance, there's a specific highlight, Path Between Hury Reservoir and Bywash Channel, which offers a trail alongside the reservoir. For more extensive hiking, you can explore various routes in the wider Arkengarthdale area, including those found in the Running Trails around Arkengarthdale guide, which often pass by or near these water bodies.

Yes, several trails and areas around the water features are dog-friendly. For example, the area around Hury Reservoir Dam and the Path Between Hury Reservoir and Bywash Channel are suitable for walks with dogs. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially near wildlife or livestock.

The water features and their surroundings are home to diverse wildlife. Blackton Reservoir is particularly noted for its variety of wildlife, with its western end protected as a nature reserve. Along the Arkle Beck and its gills, you might spot roe deer, various bird species, and dragonflies in summer. Wetland and wildflower meadow restoration efforts also contribute to a rich ecosystem.

Yes, there are stunning viewpoints. The View from Balderhead Dam offers a spectacular panorama looking out towards Blackton and Hury reservoirs. Additionally, Birkdale Tarn, though slightly tucked away, provides a peaceful spot with pleasant views.

While specific routes directly around the reservoirs might vary, the broader Arkengarthdale area offers excellent cycling opportunities. You can find various routes, including road cycling and mountain biking, in guides like Road Cycling Routes around Arkengarthdale and MTB Trails around Arkengarthdale, which often traverse the scenic landscapes where these water features are located.

Birkdale Tarn is quite a large tarn, surprisingly not as frequently visited despite being one of the larger bodies of water in the Dales (excluding reservoirs). It offers a pleasant and peaceful place to stop, slightly away from the more bustling areas, providing a sense of tranquility.

Hury Reservoir, completed in 1892, is the lowest in a series of three reservoirs on the River Balder. Its primary purpose is to control the river flow and supply water to the people and industries of Teesdale.

The Bywash Channel is a canal that carries excess water from Blackton Reservoir, running alongside Hury Reservoir. You can walk along a narrow path between Hury Reservoir and this channel, as highlighted by the Path Between Hury Reservoir and Bywash Channel.