Blackton Reservoir Picnic Site

The water at Blackton Reservoir sits dark and still, ringed by moorland that stretches toward nothing in particular. It's the kind of place you'd drive past without thinking twice, except someone's bothered to lay out a proper picnic area, which rather changes things. There's a small car park, benches, and that particular smell of damp grass and open sky that only the Pennines manage.

Walkers absolutely love it here. The reservoir itself isn't spectacular - it's functional, industrial even - but it's the access to wider moorland trails that makes the trip worthwhile. You can amble around the water's edge, or use it as a jumping-off point for longer circuits across the fells. It takes maybe 45 minutes to an hour to walk the reservoir itself if you're not rushing. Families with young kids might find it a bit bleak and windswept; it's not the sort of place where toddlers get excited about the view.

Heading out from Barnard Castle, you're well-positioned for a caravan holiday - Mickleton Mill and Doe Park are both within four miles. This works as a morning stop en route to somewhere more dramatic, or as a proper walk if you've got the weather. Spring and early summer are kindest, though it can be grim and wet here without warning. Free to visit, and there's an honesty box mentality to the whole thing. Worth the detour if you're into open moorland; skip it if you need drama with your views.