The best walks and hikes around Smiddy Shaw Reservoir

There are over 200 hiking routes around Smiddy Shaw Reservoir, offering a wide range of options for different abilities and preferences. The majority of these are easy to moderate, with 108 easy and 87 moderate trails.

Yes, Smiddy Shaw Reservoir is an excellent area for easy walks. Many routes follow the reservoir's edge, providing gentle terrain. For a straightforward option, consider the Smiddy Shaw Reservoir – Smiddy Shaw Reservoir loop from Honey Hill, which is an easy 1.9-mile path with pleasant views.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Smiddy Shaw Reservoir. However, as the area features open moorland and is often home to livestock and ground-nesting birds, it's essential to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a lead, especially during nesting seasons or when near farm animals. Always follow the Countryside Code.

Absolutely, circular walks are a popular feature of the area. A great option is the Smiddy Shaw Reservoir loop from Waskerley, a 3.4-mile trail that takes you around the reservoir and through nearby open country, typically completed in about 1 hour 31 minutes.

Smiddy Shaw Reservoir offers enjoyable hiking year-round, but each season has its charm. Spring brings new life and milder temperatures, while summer provides longer daylight hours and often drier paths. Autumn showcases beautiful moorland colours. Winter can be crisp and clear, though paths may be muddy or icy, requiring appropriate footwear and caution.

Parking is typically available at key access points around the reservoir, such as near Waskerley. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions on komoot, helping you plan your starting point.

The entire area around Smiddy Shaw Reservoir offers scenic views, primarily across the tranquil water and the surrounding open moorland. Many trails, such as the Smiddy Shaw and Hisehope loop from Waskerley, provide expansive vistas of the North Pennines landscape.

Hike durations vary significantly. Shorter, easy loops around the reservoir can take less than an hour, such as the Smiddy Shaw Reservoir – Smiddy Shaw Reservoir loop from Waskerley, which is about 43 minutes. Longer, moderate routes that combine Smiddy Shaw with nearby reservoirs like Hisehope can extend to several hours, for example, the Smiddy Shaw Reservoir – Hisehope Reservoir loop from Waskerley takes over 3.5 hours.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 490 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the accessible paths, and the beautiful open landscapes, making it a popular choice for a peaceful outdoor experience.

Yes, for those looking for a longer excursion, routes often connect Smiddy Shaw with nearby reservoirs like Hisehope. The Smiddy Shaw Reservoir – Hisehope Reservoir loop from Waskerley is a moderate 8.7-mile (14 km) trail that offers a more extended journey through the wider landscape.

The terrain around Smiddy Shaw Reservoir is generally accessible, with many paths following the reservoir's edge on relatively flat ground. While some routes may involve gentle elevations, the area is known for its suitability for various activity levels. However, specific accessibility for wheelchairs or pushchairs can vary by individual trail; checking route details on komoot is recommended.

While Smiddy Shaw Reservoir itself is a more remote, natural setting, you can find amenities in nearby villages and towns. Waskerley, though small, might offer limited options, and larger towns in the wider North Pennines area will have a selection of cafes and pubs for post-hike refreshments.