Balderhead Reservoir, Baldersdale
Balderhead Reservoir sits high in Baldersdale, surrounded by open moorland, wide skies and a feeling of space that immediately sets it apart. As the first reservoir on the River Balder, it feels wilder and more exposed than those downstream, with long views across the water and a strong sense of being on the edge of the North Pennines.
This is a place where the landscape feels big and untamed, yet still welcoming to explore. Whether you’re walking along the dam, following quiet paths across the moors, or simply pausing to take in the view, Balderhead offers a slower, more expansive experience that rewards taking your time and looking a little further into the distance.
Parking and access
The main parking for Balderhead Reservoir is at the dam itself, close to postcode DL12 9UP. There are small free car parks on either side of the dam, and you can drive across the dam to access both. This is where we usually park, as it gives easy access to the dam wall and views across the reservoir straight away.
If you prefer to park at the upper end of the reservoir, continue past the turn-off for the dam car parks and follow the road up. There is a small pull-in area further along that can accommodate a handful of cars. This option is quieter but more limited in space.
Both parking options give good access to the reservoir, with the dam car parks being the most practical and reliable choice for most visitors.
About Balderhead Reservoir
Balderhead Reservoir is the first reservoir on the River Balder, sitting at the upper end of the Baldersdale chain, above Blackton and Hury reservoirs. It was constructed in the early 1960s, with work beginning in 1961 and the reservoir filling during 1965. At the time of its completion, the dam was the highest earth dam in the British Isles, built from compacted boulder clay and shale to withstand the exposed upland conditions.
The reservoir was developed during a period of growing demand for water from the Teesside chemical industry, with Balderhead chosen instead of Cow Green due to environmental concerns higher up the valley. While it was initially intended as a direct water supply, Balderhead later took on an important river-regulating role, helping to ensure a steady flow of water downstream into the River Tees.
Surrounded by open moorland and rough grazing land, Balderhead feels more exposed and expansive than the reservoirs below it. The wide catchment area and upland setting give it a distinctly wild character, with long views, big skies and rapidly changing weather often shaping the experience of a visit.
Balderhead is also recognised as a Dark Sky Discovery Site, making it a popular place for stargazing on clear nights. During the day, the dam wall, open banks and surrounding moors provide space for quiet walking and exploration, while the reservoir’s position makes it a natural starting point for linking walks to Blackton, Hury and the wider Baldersdale landscape.
Built for a practical purpose, Balderhead Reservoir has become a place where engineering, landscape and nature sit side by side, offering a powerful sense of scale and calm at the top of the valley.
What you’ll see at Balderhead Reservoir
Balderhead feels big, open and exposed, with a mix of striking engineering and wide upland scenery. As you explore, the views shift between the dam itself, open water, moorland edges and the quieter upper reaches where the River Balder begins its journey downstream.
The dam and overflow structure
One of the most striking features at Balderhead is the large intake and overflow structure, often likened to a giant plug set into the water. It’s a powerful reminder of the scale of engineering involved, especially when water levels are high and the structure comes into full view.
Open views from the south side
From the south side of the reservoir, the land rises gently above the water, giving wide views across the reservoir towards the dam and distant moorland. This side feels open and expansive, with big skies and a strong sense of space.
Looking out from the dam
Standing near the car park and dam wall gives an impressive outlook across the reservoir, particularly when the light catches the water. It’s an easy place to pause, take photos, or simply watch the weather roll across the hills.
The River Balder at the upper end
At the top end of the reservoir, the River Balder flows in through a quieter, more natural valley. Here the landscape feels softer and more intimate, with the river winding through moorland before widening into the reservoir below.
Walks and exploring from Balderhead Reservoir
Balderhead Reservoir makes a great base for exploring the wider Baldersdale landscape, with several walking options starting directly from the dam and surrounding paths. Some routes are gentle and accessible, while others head out onto open moorland and feel much wilder.
From here, it’s easy to link into the Hannah’s Meadow walk, combining reservoir views with peaceful meadows and the story of Hannah Hauxwell’s life nearby. Balderhead is also a good starting point for longer walks towards Shackleborough, with wide open views and a strong sense of space as you gain height.
There is also a circular walk around the reservoir, but this is more challenging than it might first appear. One side follows open access moorland with rough, uneven ground, while the return uses a quiet lane on the opposite side. This route requires good navigation skills, especially in poor weather or low visibility, and is best suited to confident walkers.
Whether you’re here for a short wander across the dam or using Balderhead as a gateway to longer routes, the reservoir offers plenty of ways to explore at your own pace.
A place to slow down
Balderhead Reservoir is a place where the scale of the landscape encourages you to pause and look around. With wide skies, open moorland and long views across the water, it has a way of clearing the head and slowing the pace, even on a short visit.
You don’t need to tackle big routes here to enjoy it. A walk across the dam, time spent watching the light change over the reservoir, or simply sitting quietly by the water can be just as rewarding. Balderhead offers space, stillness and a sense of perspective, a powerful reminder of why being outdoors can be such a grounding experience.