4.4
(289)
2,578
hikers
31
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Edmondbyers are situated within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and UNESCO Global Geopark. The region features a distinctive terrain of high moorland, broad upland dales, and gentle valleys carved by rivers like the Derwent. Modest hills offer expansive views of the surrounding countryside, making it ideal for accessible outdoor exploration. The landscape is characterized by open moorland, heather, and the tranquil waters of Derwent Reservoir.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.4
(14)
244
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(11)
208
hikers
5.53km
01:25
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
35
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
2.01km
00:31
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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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Looking across the reservoir and down from the dam
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If you’re planning on walking the reservoir loop be aware that half of it is along a quiet road
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There are 12 easy hiking trails around Edmondbyers, offering accessible options for exploring the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Yes, many easy trails around Edmondbyers are circular. For example, the View of Derwent Reservoir – Derwent Reservoir loop from Burnhope Burn SSSI offers scenic views, and the Derwent Reservoir loop from Pow Hill Bog provides a pleasant walk along the reservoir's edge.
Easy hikes in the Edmondbyers area often feature the tranquil waters of Derwent Reservoir, open moorland, and gentle valleys carved by rivers like the Derwent. You can also encounter heather-covered landscapes, particularly vibrant in late summer, and distinctive dry stone walls.
Yes, for a shorter walk, consider the Derwent Waterside Park – Derwent Reservoir loop from Burnhope Burn SSSI, which is 3.7 km (2.3 miles) and typically takes under an hour to complete. Another option is the Derwent Reservoir loop from Burnhope Burn SSSI, which is 3.0 km (1.9 miles).
The easy trails in Edmondbyers are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 270 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the scenic views of Derwent Reservoir, the peaceful moorland, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable and accessible outdoor experience.
While the immediate easy routes focus on natural beauty, the wider region has a rich industrial past. Some trails, like the Edmundbyers loop via the Lead Mining Trail (a moderate route), incorporate scenery related to this history. You can also find nearby attractions like the Waskerley Way and Hownsgill Viaduct, which are part of the area's heritage.
Absolutely. Edmondbyers is an excellent location for beginner hikers due to its selection of 12 easy trails. These routes feature gentle elevation changes and well-defined paths, making them ideal for those new to hiking or looking for a relaxed outdoor experience.
The North Pennines region around Edmondbyers is beautiful year-round. Late spring to early autumn offers the most pleasant weather for hiking, with vibrant flora and heather displays in late summer. However, the diverse landscapes, including the Derwent Reservoir, provide scenic walks in any season, though conditions can be more challenging in winter.
The village of Edmondbyers itself has amenities like The Punchbowl Inn, which can be a welcome stop after a hike. Many trails are also located near Derwent Reservoir, where you might find visitor facilities or cafes depending on your specific route.
Parking is available at various points around Derwent Reservoir, which serves as a common starting point for many easy trails. Specific car parks like those near Pow Hill Country Park or Derwent Waterside Park are convenient for accessing routes such as the Derwent Reservoir loop from Pow Hill Bog.
Yes, the modest hills and open moorland around Edmondbyers offer expansive views of the surrounding countryside, including the Derwent Reservoir. The View of Derwent Reservoir – Derwent Reservoir loop from Burnhope Burn SSSI is specifically named for its scenic vistas.
The Edmondbyers area is rich in wildlife. Hikers might spot unique flora, including rare orchids, and various bird species such as curlews and lapwings. The Derwent Reservoir is also excellent for bird watching, with sightings of ospreys possible.


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