Best lakes around Shotley Low Quarter are primarily man-made reservoirs and ponds, as the civil parish itself does not contain notable natural lakes. Situated on the border of Northumberland and County Durham, the area offers various water bodies in its vicinity. These locations provide opportunities for hiking and enjoying the natural landscape. The region's water features are often integrated into walking routes and country parks.
Last updated: May 7, 2026
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A little gem of a reservoir definitely worth a visit.
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Popular country park. Nice to see so many people out enjoying the weather.
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Nice blast from the past and a nice little shelter from the wind.
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lovely walk around the reservoir great places for bird watching saw a kingfisher last time i was there.
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Of the three reservoirs in this area, this one is the smallest. Additionally, it channels its waters to the Smiddy Shaw Reservoir through a small connecting canal. It is a very pleasant place for a hike, offering the opportunity to connect with some of the other reservoirs.
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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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The moorland where you are has a rich history of lead mining, and right in front, you can observe what used to be the chimney of the Jeffrey Smelt Mill. Next to it (as you can see, the upper part is missing, although the rest is well-preserved), there is a dam that was also used for the mines. There was another one as well, but this is the only one that still has water in it.
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The most popular water bodies in the vicinity of Shotley Low Quarter are primarily man-made reservoirs and ponds. These include Tunstall Reservoir Circular Walk, known for its adventurous lakeside path, Derwenthaugh Country Park Pond, popular with cyclists and walkers, and Hisehope Reservoir, a pleasant spot for a hike that connects to other reservoirs.
No, Shotley Low Quarter, a civil parish on the border of Northumberland and County Durham, does not contain any notable natural lakes. The significant water features in the area are predominantly man-made reservoirs and ponds located in the wider surrounding regions.
You'll find a variety of walking routes, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. For instance, the Tunstall Reservoir Circular Walk offers a 3 km path, with some sections being narrow and rough. Many of the reservoirs, like Derwent Reservoir, feature loops that combine lakeside paths with quiet roads. For more options, you can explore easy hikes around Shotley Low Quarter.
Yes, many of the water bodies are family-friendly. Derwent Reservoir, Hisehope Reservoir, and Derwenthaugh Country Park Pond are all noted as suitable for families. However, some paths, like parts of the Tunstall Reservoir Circular Walk, may be rough and less suitable for buggies or wheelchairs.
Yes, several of the lakes and their surrounding trails are dog-friendly. Derwent Reservoir, Hisehope Reservoir, and Sikehead Dam are all listed as dog-friendly. Always ensure your dog is under control and check for any specific local regulations or signage.
Absolutely. Derwenthaugh Country Park Pond is known for its good surface for cycling. The wider area also offers various cycling routes, including loops around Derwent Reservoir. You can find more options in the cycling guide for Shotley Low Quarter.
Near the lakes, you can discover historical sites such as Sikehead Dam and the Jeffrey Smelt Mill chimney. This area has a rich history of lead mining, and you can observe the remains of the smelt mill chimney and a dam that was used for the mines.
Yes, the region provides opportunities for gravel biking. There are several routes that incorporate the diverse terrain around Shotley Low Quarter, including trails that pass by some of the water bodies. For detailed routes, check out the gravel biking guide for the area.
Visitors appreciate the serene atmosphere, the variety of walking and cycling paths, and the opportunities for bird watching, especially at places like Tunstall Reservoir Circular Walk. The blend of natural beauty and historical interest, such as at Sikehead Dam, also adds to the appeal.
While the reservoirs offer scenic views and recreational activities, entering the water for unauthorized swimming is generally not permitted. For example, at Derwent Reservoir, swimming is not allowed. It's always best to observe local regulations and signage regarding water activities.
Yes, many of the lakes offer excellent viewpoints. Derwent Reservoir provides splendid views from its dam, and Derwenthaugh Country Park Pond is also noted as a good viewpoint. The various walking trails often lead to picturesque spots overlooking the water.


Still not found your perfect lake around Shotley Low Quarter? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.