4.7
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3,411
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89
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Easy hiking trails around Selset Reservoir offer access to a tranquil environment within the North Pennine grouse moors. The region is characterized by expansive water views from Selset Reservoir and its interconnected neighbors like Grassholme and Balderhead. A notable feature is the 1 km dam wall, providing a flat walking surface with continuous scenic vistas. The surrounding landscape consists of rugged moorland and diverse waterscapes, providing a varied terrain for outdoor pursuits.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.5
(4)
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2
hikers
4.60km
01:12
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
20
hikers
4.22km
01:07
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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up and down but not too tiring
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Blackton Reservoir is a beautiful stretch of water that is home to a great deal of wildlife. The area around the western end of the reservoir is protected as a nature reserve. Nearby, Hannah's Meadows has been designated as a site of special scientific interest due to them having many species of grass and herbs which are threatened elsewhere.
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Among the three reservoirs, Balderhead is the one located furthest to the west. It takes its waters from the River Balder, a tributary of the River Tees, and was built in 1961.
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If you fancy a peaceful run in the area, you should definitely consider doing it around this beautiful spot. Besides the joy of running near the water, it's an ideal way to discover this rural gem and the landscapes that surround it.
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Nestled in the picturesque Teesdale region, Middleton-in-Teesdale is situated on the northern banks of the River Tees and enveloped by the North Pennines. This historic town witnessed significant growth in the early 19th century. The London Lead Company's relocation of its northern headquarters from Blanchland in Northumberland marked a transformative period for Middleton-in-Teesdale. Today, echoes of its industrial past can be seen in the well-preserved architecture, such as Middleton House, the former company headquarters, the transformed school now serving as an outdoor centre.
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What3Words Location = ///beam.hindered.glorious
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The former lead mining town of Middleton-in-Teesdale is an excellent base for adventures in the North Pennines AONB. The nearby High Force Waterfalls are a majestic sight, where the River Tees plunges 70 feet (21.3 m) in two stages. Meanwhile, nearby Lunedale and Baldersdale offer great hiking around their five picturesque reservoirs. The town's position on the Pennine Way means that there are plenty of hiker-friendly accommodation options.
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There are 28 easy hiking trails around Selset Reservoir. These routes are designed to be accessible and offer a great way to experience the tranquil environment and scenic views of the North Pennine grouse moors.
Easy hikes around Selset Reservoir feature varied terrain, including flat paths along the 1 km dam wall, simple tracks connecting to other reservoirs, and sections through the rugged beauty of the North Pennine grouse moors. You'll encounter expansive water views and diverse waterscapes.
Yes, several easy circular walks are available. For instance, the View from Balderhead Dam – Blackton Reservoir loop from Hannah's Meadows SSSI is a popular 7.2 km option, offering views of multiple reservoirs. Another shorter circular route is the Blackton Reservoir – Balderhead Reservoir Car Park loop from Hannah's Meadows SSSI, which is 3.3 km long.
Absolutely. The area is known for its interconnected reservoirs. The View from Balderhead Dam – Blackton Reservoir loop from Hannah's Meadows SSSI, for example, provides excellent vistas of Balderhead and Blackton Reservoirs, showcasing the diverse waterscape of the region.
Many easy trails are well-suited for families. The dam wall offers a flat and accessible stroll, and a simple track connects Selset to Grassholme Reservoir, which has a fantastic circular walk. The Grassholme Reservoir loop from Disabled parking is a 4.6 km route leading through varied natural scenery, often completed in just over an hour, making it a great family-friendly choice.
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails around Selset Reservoir, but it's important to keep them under control, especially due to the surrounding grouse moors and potential livestock. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions, particularly during nesting seasons for ground-nesting birds.
You can expect breathtaking water views across Selset Reservoir itself, as well as picturesque vistas of interconnected reservoirs like Grassholme, Balderhead, Blackton, and Hury. The dramatic scenery of the North Pennine grouse moors provides a rugged and beautiful backdrop to your walks.
Easy walks in the area vary in length and duration. You can find shorter options like the Blackton Reservoir – Balderhead Reservoir Car Park loop from Hannah's Meadows SSSI, which is 3.3 km and takes about 56 minutes. Longer easy routes, such as the View from Balderhead Dam – Blackton Reservoir loop from Hannah's Meadows SSSI, are around 7.2 km and can take nearly two hours.
Yes, parking is generally available at key access points for the reservoirs, including designated car parks near Balderhead and Grassholme Reservoirs. It's advisable to check specific route details for the most convenient parking locations.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil environment, the expansive water views, and the opportunity to explore the dramatic North Pennine grouse moors on well-maintained paths.
Spring and summer offer pleasant conditions with blooming moorland and longer daylight hours. Autumn provides stunning colors across the landscape. While winter can be beautiful, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially challenging conditions on exposed moorland paths.
Yes, the renowned Pennine Way passes through the area, offering opportunities to extend walks. You can access parts of the Pennine Way from the vicinity of Selset Reservoir, allowing you to explore further into Lunedale and towards other reservoirs like Balderhead.


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