The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Blackton Reservoir

There are over 80 hiking routes in the Blackton Reservoir area, with more than 25 specifically rated as easy, making them ideal for families. These trails offer a variety of distances and experiences suitable for different ages and abilities.

Yes, several easy trails are perfect for families, some of which may be suitable for sturdy strollers depending on the path conditions. A great option is the Blackton Reservoir – Balderhead Reservoir Car Park loop from Hannah's Meadows SSSI, which is rated as easy and offers a pleasant, shorter walk.

Many trails around Blackton Reservoir are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery with your canine companion. However, as the area includes nature reserves and grouse moors, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially during nesting seasons or when livestock is present, to protect wildlife and farm animals.

Absolutely! Circular routes are a fantastic way to explore the area without retracing your steps. The Three Reservoirs loop is a popular moderate option that connects Blackton, Hury, and Balderhead reservoirs, offering expansive views. For a shorter, easier circular walk, consider the route around Blackton Reservoir itself.

Blackton Reservoir is a haven for wildlife, especially birds. The western end is a designated nature reserve with a bird hide, where you can spot various bird species and wildfowl. Hannah's Meadow, a nearby Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), is rich in rare grass and herb species, contributing to the area's diverse flora and fauna.

Parking is generally available at key access points around the reservoirs. Specific car parks are often located near the dams or trailheads, such as those serving Hannah's Meadows SSSI or Balderhead Reservoir, providing convenient starting points for your family hike.

The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for family hiking around Blackton Reservoir, offering milder weather, longer daylight hours, and vibrant natural scenery. Autumn also provides beautiful colours. While winter walks can be stunning, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially challenging conditions on exposed moorland paths.

While Blackton Reservoir itself is quite rural, nearby villages like Romaldkirk and Cotherstone offer options for refreshments, including cafes and pubs. You can also find accommodation in these charming villages if you plan an extended stay in the North Pennines.

Beyond the stunning reservoir views, keep an eye out for Hannah's Meadow SSSI, known for its unique plant life. You can also walk along the dam wall of Blackton Reservoir to see the dramatic overflow funnel. The area is part of the beautiful North Pennine grouse moors, offering vast, open landscapes and access to the long-distance Pennine Way.

The duration of family-friendly hikes varies significantly. Shorter, easy loops like the Blackton Reservoir – Balderhead Reservoir Car Park loop can take around 1-1.5 hours. Longer, moderate routes such as the Three Reservoirs loop might take 3-4 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the expansive views across the water and moorland, and the well-defined paths that make exploring accessible for families. The opportunity to spot diverse wildlife is also frequently highlighted.