Reservoirs of Teesdale
Teesdale’s reservoirs are scattered through some of the most peaceful valleys and open moorland in the North Pennines. Each one has its own character, shaped by the landscape it sits within and the way people experience it. From the high, windswept uplands of Cow Green to the gentler, family friendly paths around Grassholme and Hury, these waters offer quiet places to walk, watch wildlife and enjoy wide views across the dale.
Some feel wild and remote, with big skies and a real sense of space. Others sit more softly in the landscape, where calm paths, sheltered water and valley scenery make them easy places to slow down and spend time outdoors. Together, they form a chain of waters that reflect the changing nature of Teesdale itself.
This page is our growing guide to the reservoirs of Teesdale, based on our own visits, walks and photographs. Each reservoir listed below links to a dedicated page with clear information, honest descriptions and a feel for what it’s like to be there, helping you choose the waterside places that suit your day, your pace and your way of exploring.
Cow Green Reservoir
Remote reservoir
Cow Green is Teesdale’s most dramatic and isolated reservoir surrounded by huge skies, open moorland and rare Arctic alpine plants found nowhere else in England. The dam is an impressive sight in full flow and the reservoir marks the start of the walk to Cauldron Snout which is one of the wildest spots in the North Pennines.
Selset Reservoir
Quiet upland reservoir
Selset is a peaceful and remote reservoir set among open moorland with sweeping views in all directions. It is a favourite with walkers who enjoy stillness, wide landscapes and a sense of escape. It is ideal for birdwatching, quiet photography and slow thoughtful miles in nature.
Grassholme Reservoir
Accessible reservoir
Grassholme is one of Teesdale’s most welcoming reservoirs offering a circular walking route, family friendly paths and beautiful valley views. With trout fishing, wildlife and water activities managed nearby it is a great choice for relaxed days outdoors without heading deep into the moors.
Balderhead Reservoir
Wild moorland reservoir
Balderhead sits high in Baldersdale surrounded by open hills and peaceful moorland. It is quiet, spacious and rich in birdlife making it ideal for those who want big views and a real feeling of wilderness. Footpaths along the water connect it with the neighbouring reservoirs for longer days out.
Hury Reservoir
Family friendly reservoir
Hury is known for its gentle valley scenery and calm waters which make it perfect for peaceful walks and quiet nature time. Its location in the heart of Baldersdale makes it a lovely spot for families, dog walks and slow afternoons by the water. It is a favourite for anglers and anyone seeking relaxed Teesdale views.
Blackton Reservoir
Scenic valley reservoir
Blackton sits in one of the most picturesque stretches of Baldersdale with rolling fields, wildlife and beautifully shaped water. Connecting paths let you explore several reservoirs in one day making Blackton a great addition to longer valley walks or simple short visits for scenery and stillness.
Part of Discover Teesdale
This page sits within our Discover Teesdale guides, where we share places we’ve spent time in ourselves and return to when we need space, calm or a change of pace. The reservoirs here aren’t just locations on a map, they’re places we’ve walked, paused and quietly explored over time.
We’ve found that being outdoors doesn’t have to mean big hikes or pushing yourself. Sometimes it’s enough to wander beside water, notice the light changing, or sit for a while and let the noise settle. Teesdale’s reservoirs offer that kind of space, places where it’s easy to slow down and feel a little more grounded.
Each reservoir has its own guide, written from our own visits, with real photos and an honest sense of what it’s like to be there. You can take your time, follow what draws you in, and choose the places that suit how you’re feeling that day.