The best gravel rides around Tunstall Reservoir

There are 7 gravel bike trails available around Tunstall Reservoir, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.

While many routes around Tunstall Reservoir are rated moderate to difficult, there are options that can be approached by beginners with some caution. The area's trails are generally characterized by rolling hills and varied surfaces, so even moderate routes require a reasonable fitness level. Currently, there are no routes explicitly listed as 'easy' in the provided data, but some moderate routes might be suitable for beginners looking for a challenge, such as View of Lanchester Valley – Deerness path loop from Consett or Deerness path – River Deerness loop from Tow Law.

The gravel bike trails around Tunstall Reservoir feature a diverse landscape, including woodlands, open moorland, and paths alongside the reservoir itself. You'll encounter rolling hills and a mix of surfaces, often following former railway lines or forest tracks.

For families, it's important to consider the difficulty and length of the routes. Many trails in this area are rated moderate to difficult, with significant elevation gain. If cycling with younger children, it's advisable to choose shorter sections of trails or look for routes specifically marked as easy or traffic-free, which may require local knowledge beyond the provided routes.

The best time for gravel biking around Tunstall Reservoir is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months. During these seasons, the weather is typically milder, and the trails are less likely to be muddy or icy, making for more enjoyable riding conditions. Winter riding is possible but can be challenging due to colder temperatures and potentially wet or icy surfaces.

Yes, several routes around Tunstall Reservoir are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include Climb to Polty's Last Blast – Hamsterley Forest Car Park loop from Wolsingham and Road Into Rookhope – Blanchland Village loop from Healeyfield.

The gravel bike trails around Tunstall Reservoir vary in length and duration. You can expect routes ranging from approximately 24 miles (39 km) to over 38 miles (61 km). Durations can range from around 3 hours for moderate routes to nearly 5 hours for more difficult and longer trails, depending on your pace and fitness level.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 8 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, which includes woodlands and open moorland, and the challenging nature of the routes with their significant elevation gains.

Yes, experienced gravel bikers will find several challenging routes around Tunstall Reservoir. Many of the trails are rated 'difficult' and feature substantial elevation gain. For example, Waskerley Station – Waskerley Way loop from Tow Law is a 38-mile route with over 1200 meters of climbing, offering a significant test for advanced riders.

While specific parking locations are not detailed for every route, many trails start from or pass through areas with public parking facilities, such as Hamsterley Forest Car Park (as mentioned in the route Climb to Polty's Last Blast – Hamsterley Forest Car Park loop from Wolsingham) or near villages like Wolsingham, Healeyfield, or Consett. It's always recommended to check local parking information for your chosen starting point before your ride.

The routes often pass through or near small villages and towns, which may offer opportunities for cafe stops or places to refill water bottles. For instance, routes starting from or passing through Wolsingham, Blanchland Village, or Consett are likely to have amenities. Planning your route in advance and checking for services in these locations is advisable.

Gravel biking around Tunstall Reservoir offers a distinct experience characterized by its blend of woodlands, open moorland, and reservoir views, often utilizing former railway lines. While Kielder Forest is known for its extensive network of forest trails, Tunstall Reservoir provides a more varied landscape with rolling hills and a mix of surfaces that can feel more remote and rugged in places, offering a different kind of challenge and scenic beauty.