4.7
(506)
2,648
hikers
93
hikes
Hiking around Hury Reservoir offers a network of easy trails set within the tranquil Baldersdale valley in County Durham. The area features the open waters of the reservoir, surrounded by rolling hills and traditional stone-walled meadows. Its proximity to Blackton and Balderhead Reservoirs allows for routes that traverse multiple bodies of water, providing varied scenery. The landscape is characterized by quintessential Durham Dales greenery, making it suitable for accessible outdoor exploration.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.8
(10)
54
hikers
4.84km
01:15
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.0
(1)
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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
(1)
18
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
up and down but not too tiring
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
1
0
This viaduct was used as a railway for the Tees Valley Railway Company, for which it was built in 1868. Now, out of use, you can cross it on foot.
1
0
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.
1
0
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.
0
0
There are over 25 easy hiking trails around Hury Reservoir, offering a variety of routes suitable for different preferences. In total, the area features 93 hiking tours, with 29 specifically graded as easy.
Yes, many of the easy trails around Hury Reservoir are circular. A popular option is the Hury Reservoir Circular Trail, which is 3.0 miles (4.8 km) long and offers continuous views across the water. Another is the Blackton Reservoir – Balderhead Reservoir Car Park loop from Hannah's Meadows SSSI, a 2.1-mile (3.3 km) route.
Easy hikes around Hury Reservoir vary in length and duration. For example, the Hury Reservoir Circular Trail is about 3.0 miles (4.8 km) and takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. Longer easy options, like the View from Balderhead Dam – Blackton Reservoir loop from Hannah's Meadows SSSI, are around 4.4 miles (7.2 km) and can take over 2 hours.
Absolutely. The easy trails around Hury Reservoir are generally family-friendly, featuring gentle gradients and easily-followed grassy tracks or quiet country lanes. The Hury Reservoir Circular Trail is particularly suitable for all skill levels and families.
Yes, Hury Reservoir is known as a great place for dog walking. The area offers ample routes for pets to enjoy the open air, with many trails consisting of easily-followed paths. Please ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock or wildlife.
You can expect tranquil reservoir-side paths, rolling dales, and traditional stone-walled meadows. The area is characterized by the open waters of Hury Reservoir, fed by the River Balder, and surrounded by picturesque hills and lush Durham Dales greenery. You'll also find interconnected reservoirs like Blackton and Balderhead, offering continuous scenic views.
Yes, you can explore several points of interest. The Hury Reservoir Dam is a notable man-made structure. You'll also find scenic sections like the Path Between Hury Reservoir and Bywash Channel, which offers pleasant views of the water and surrounding landscape.
While specific parking areas for each route are detailed on individual tour pages, generally, you can find parking near the reservoirs. Many routes, such as the Grassholme Reservoir loop, start from designated parking spots, making access convenient for hikers.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 460 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil setting, the continuous reservoir views, and the well-maintained, easily accessible paths that make for a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor experience.
While Hury Reservoir itself is quite remote, the nearby villages of Romaldkirk and Cotherstone offer options for refreshments. These traditional Dales villages provide pubs and cafes where you can relax and refuel after your walk.
Public transport options directly to Hury Reservoir are limited due to its remote location in Baldersdale. It is generally recommended to travel by car to access the trailheads, though local bus services might connect to nearby larger towns, requiring further travel to the reservoir.
Hury Reservoir offers beautiful scenery year-round. Spring and summer bring lush greenery and longer daylight hours, ideal for leisurely walks. Autumn provides stunning colors, while winter can offer a peaceful, serene landscape, though paths may be muddier or icy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.