The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Fontburn Reservoir

Fontburn Reservoir offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking options. Our guide features over 20 easy routes that are particularly suitable for families, with a total of 68 hiking trails in the wider area.

The terrain around Fontburn Reservoir is varied. While some sections, particularly on the northern shore, are generally level and well-surfaced, parts of the southern shore can be undulating, narrow, and sometimes muddy. Suitable footwear is recommended, especially after rain. You'll find a mix of waterside paths, woodlands, and open moorland views.

Yes, a popular choice for families is the circular walk around Fontburn Reservoir itself. It's approximately 3.5 miles (5.6 km) long and typically takes around 2 hours at a leisurely pace, allowing you to experience the diverse scenery.

Hikers can enjoy expansive views of the Simonside Hills and Harwood Forest. Unique features include the 'Plughole' (a shaft spillway that regulates water levels) and the Fallowless burial site, a 3,000-year-old Bronze Age mound located on the woodland edge. The area also boasts diverse woodlands and tranquil waterside scenery.

Absolutely! Fontburn Reservoir is a designated local wildlife site. Families can look out for red squirrels, badgers, roe deer, and various bird species. The diverse habitats, from woodlands to marshy grasslands, support a wide array of wildlife, making it an engaging experience for children.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Fontburn Reservoir. However, please ensure they are kept under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors, and always clean up after them.

Fontburn Reservoir is well-equipped for families. There's a dedicated play park with swings, slides, climbing frames, and a zip wire. You'll also find spacious picnic areas with breathtaking views, perfect for a family lunch. A shop is available for hot drinks and snacks.

There is ample parking available directly at Fontburn Reservoir, making it convenient for families to access the trails and facilities.

The komoot community highly rates the trails around Fontburn Reservoir, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 660 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the beautiful reservoir views, and the well-maintained paths that make it enjoyable for all ages.

While some sections of the main circular walk are well-surfaced, parts can be narrow and undulating, which might be challenging for pushchairs. For a very easy option, consider the Lordenshaws Car Park – Dove Crag summit loop from Lordenshaws, which is rated as easy and offers a shorter distance with manageable elevation.

Fontburn Reservoir is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for family hikes, with lush greenery and active wildlife. Autumn provides stunning foliage, while winter can offer crisp, scenic walks, though some paths may be muddier or icy, requiring appropriate gear.

For families with older children looking for a longer adventure, the Simonside Summit – View from Dove Crag loop from Lordenshaws offers a moderate challenge with rewarding views over 7 km.