The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Derwent Reservoir

There are over 90 dog-friendly hiking trails around Derwent Reservoir, offering a wide range of options for you and your canine companion. These include 26 easy routes, 55 moderate routes, and 9 more challenging trails.

Yes, there are several easy and shorter routes perfect for a relaxed stroll with your dog. For example, the Derwent Waterside Park loop is just under 4 km, offering gentle paths along the reservoir. Another great option is the Derwent Reservoir loop from Burnhope Burn SSSI, which is around 3 km.

The terrain around Derwent Reservoir is quite varied. You'll find well-maintained paths along the reservoir shores, through extensive woodlands, and across rolling hills. Some routes venture onto gritstone escarpments and moorlands, offering more challenging sections and panoramic views. The area is known for its mix of natural beauty, from waterscapes to dramatic geological formations.

Many of the dog-friendly routes around Derwent Reservoir are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular moderate option is the Around Derwent Reservoir from Pow Hill Country Park, which is a 15 km loop offering diverse scenery.

The area is rich in both natural beauty and historical significance. You can walk past the impressive Derwent Dam, famous as the practice site for the 'Dambusters' during WWII. Remains of the old Derwent Village, flooded during the dam's construction, can sometimes be seen. Further afield, the medieval Blanchland Abbey offers a cultural highlight. The region also features dramatic gritstone escarpments like Derwent Edge and the picturesque Slippery Stones packhorse bridge near Howden Dam.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails around Derwent Reservoir, with an average score of 4.49 out of 5 stars from over 440 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning reservoir views, the peaceful woodlands, and the variety of trails suitable for different abilities. The historical significance of the Derwent Dam is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

Absolutely. Many trails provide superb viewpoints of the reservoir and surrounding hills. Routes that ascend to the gritstone escarpments, such as those leading towards Derwent Edge, offer panoramic vistas of the Upper Derwent Valley. Even easier walks along the reservoir shores provide beautiful perspectives of the water and the iconic Derwent Dam.

While the region is primarily accessed by car, some local bus services operate within the Peak District National Park, which may provide access points to the Derwent Reservoir area. It's advisable to check specific routes and schedules with local transport providers, as services can be limited, especially on weekends and public holidays. Parking is generally available at key trailheads.

Derwent Reservoir is beautiful year-round. Spring brings fresh greenery and wildflowers, while autumn transforms the woodlands with vibrant colors. Summer offers longer daylight hours for extended walks. Winter can be picturesque with snow, but some paths may be muddy or icy, so appropriate gear is essential. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, there are many moderate trails that provide a good workout for you and your dog. The View of Derwent Reservoir loop from Burnhope Burn SSSI is a good example, covering about 7.6 km with some elevation changes, offering rewarding views without being overly strenuous. Another moderate option is the Blanchland Village – Blanchland Abbey loop, which is around 8.4 km and explores both natural beauty and historical sites.