Tunstall Reservoir Circular Walk

While specific parking details aren't provided, the trail is accessible from the Tunstall Reservoir area. Many visitors park near the reservoir itself. For amenities like pubs, consider starting from nearby Wolsingham, which offers additional parking options.

Yes, the walk is generally dog-friendly. However, as it passes through farmland and areas with wildlife, it's important to keep dogs under control, preferably on a leash, especially near livestock or sensitive habitats. Always follow the Countryside Code.

The Tunstall Reservoir Circular Walk offers diverse scenery throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for wildlife spotting, including various birds and butterflies. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, quiet views, though some sections may become muddy and challenging in wet or icy conditions. Always check local weather before you go.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Tunstall Reservoir Circular Walk. It's freely accessible to the public.

As the Tunstall Reservoir Circular Walk is located within the North Pennines National Landscape, it's important to follow the Countryside Code. This includes taking your litter home, keeping dogs under control, protecting wildlife and plants, and leaving gates as you find them. There are no specific permits required for general hiking on public footpaths.

The trail features a varied terrain, including farmland paths, forest tracks, and quiet country lanes. You'll encounter uneven dirt paths with tree roots, particularly in woodlands like Backstone Bank Wood. Some sections can become muddy and challenging in wet weather, and there are both uphill and downhill parts, including wooden steps. The path on the east side of the reservoir can be narrow and rough.

The walk offers scenic views of the Tunstall Reservoir, ancient Backstone Bank Wood, and the surrounding rolling countryside. The Tunstall Reservoir Circular Walk itself is a highlight, known for its diverse scenery. You'll also find picnic areas and benches to enjoy the views, and excellent vistas back towards Wolsingham from certain points.

The reservoir area is a popular spot for birdwatching, with species such as Great crested grebe, tufted duck, goosander, moorhen, coot, mallard, and common sandpiper. You might also spot various butterflies like admiral, small tortoiseshell, peacock, and meadow brown, especially during warmer months.

While shorter loops directly around the reservoir might be manageable for some families, the full circular walk features varied terrain, including uneven dirt paths, tree roots, and potentially muddy sections. Wooden steps in Backstone Bank Wood and narrow, rough paths on the east side of the reservoir make it less suitable for buggies. Some sections may require good fitness and sure-footedness.

While the immediate reservoir area has picnic spots and benches, for more substantial amenities, the nearby town of Wolsingham offers pubs and other facilities. It's a good idea to bring your own refreshments for the walk itself.

The Tunstall Reservoir Circular Walk is generally considered to be of easy difficulty. While it features varied terrain and some uphill/downhill sections, the overall elevation gain is minimal. Shorter loops around the reservoir are even easier, but some parts, especially in wet conditions, may require good footing.