The best walks and hikes around Shotley Low Quarter

Yes, many trails in the area are great for walking with a dog. However, you'll be crossing pastoral farmland and moorlands, so it's important to keep your dog on a lead, especially around livestock and during bird nesting seasons on the moors. The paths around Derwent Reservoir are particularly popular with dog walkers.

For a shorter, easier walk that's great for the whole family, consider the Derwent Reservoir loop from Edmundbyers. It's a relatively flat 3.1-mile (5 km) trail with lovely views across the water. Allensford Country Park also offers accessible paths along the river.

Absolutely. Most of the recommended routes in the area are loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. A great example is the Allensford Park Playground – View of Hownsgill Viaduct loop, which combines riverside paths with impressive views of the historic viaduct.

If you're looking for a longer day out, the Derwent Reservoir loop from Mosswood is an excellent choice. This 9.1-mile (14.6 km) trail takes you through woodland and along the reservoir shore, offering a more challenging and immersive experience of the landscape.

The hiking here is defined by its variety. You'll experience the heavily wooded Derwent Valley with its ancient oaks, serene riverside paths, and walks around the expansive Derwent Reservoir. As you climb, the landscape opens up into upland sheep farms with traditional dry stone walls and the exposed heather moorlands of the North Pennines.

Yes, the region is rich in industrial history. Many routes, like the Allensford Blast Furnace – Allensford Park Playground loop, take you past significant landmarks. The Allensford Blast Furnace is a 17th-century relic, and other trails follow former railway lines, featuring impressive Victorian structures like the Hownsgill Viaduct.

Several trails start from convenient parking areas. Allensford Country Park has parking and serves as a great starting point for walks along the River Derwent. For routes along the Waskerley Way, the Rowley Station Picnic Area is a popular spot to park and begin your walk or cycle.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with over 6,700 hikers exploring the area. Reviewers often praise the mix of scenery, from tranquil reservoir paths to rugged moorland. The well-maintained trails and the blend of natural beauty with local history are frequently mentioned as highlights.

You'll find a good selection of routes to explore. There are over a dozen curated hiking trails available, ranging from easy 3-mile (5 km) loops to more moderate 9-mile (15 km) treks, ensuring there's a path for every fitness level.

The diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife. The woodlands and riverbanks are great for birdwatching. On the higher moorland trails, particularly along the Waskerley Way, you might be lucky enough to spot species like red and black grouse or merlin. The area is also home to various butterfly species.

Moderate hikes in this area, such as the View of Derwent Reservoir – Derwent Reservoir loop from Edmundbyers, typically involve some elevation gain and mixed terrain. You can expect a combination of well-made tracks, woodland paths that can be muddy after rain, and some sections on quiet country roads.