Water Ways

A rough moorland walking route can be followed along the shore.

There is a large car park near the northeastern corner of the reservoir.

Car parks at either end of the dam wall. A public footpath runs along the shore and the Pennine Way crosses Blackton Bridge at the eastern end; this is the half-way point of this famous route.

The reservoir is a wild trout fishery, offering sport for the dedicated angler and is also home to the Balderhead Water Ski Club.

A cascade of falls, frothing down a total drop of 200 feet. Park at the car park at Cow Green Reservoir. Walk 1½ miles along a maintained path to the top of the falls. Wide moorland landscape.

Take a picnic and warm clothes. Pushchairs can be wheeled on the path which runs parallel to the reservoir. Admission free. Open at all times.

England’s largest waterfall thunders 70 feet over massive rocks on the River Tees. Picnic area & gift shop at car park

4½ miles from Middleton in Teesdale. Access for wheelchairs though moderately steep gravel access path (1/2 mile long) can make progress difficult. Pleasant walk. Pushchairs can be wheeled on the path. Dogs allowed on leads.

Picturesque, riverside setting with rock pools and rapids 3 miles NW of Middleton in Teesdale

Pleasant walk along waymarked footpath through fields & woodland, across the Wynch Bridgeowlees picnic area where cars may be parked).

Not accessible to wheelchairs or push chairs due to uneven ground

Admission free. Open at all times.

Large, picturesque, stream-side picnic area with footpath to Gibson’s Cave. Ideal for picnics, paddling, playing games. Dogs allowed. Ample parking. Toilets. Adjacent to Bowlees visitor Centre. There is a pleasant walk to Low Force (about 1 mile) though take care crossing the road.

Wheelchair access to much of the site but not along the path to Gibson’s Cave due to steps. WC. Admission free. Open at all times.