Newsham Tarn

A shallow moorland lake tucked into the Pennines near Barnard Castle, Newsham Tarn is the sort of place you'd stumble upon by accident and wonder why more people aren't here. The water sits cupped between rough grass and heather, with views that stretch across proper wild country - no manicured banks or tourist machinery, just honest fell landscape.

It's not deep and it's not large, which means it lacks the grandeur of some reservoirs further north, but that's precisely what makes it worthwhile. Walkers get the most from it. The tarn sits on several decent circular routes through Teesdale, and approaching it on foot from Barnard Castle way feels far more rewarding than rolling up in a car. Allow two or three hours for a gentle circuit if you're based at Hewn Yorkshire or Teesdale Barnard Castle Caravan Club Site - both solid stops within reach.

There's a small car park and basic facilities, though don't expect refreshments. It's free and open year-round. Spring and early summer are best; winter can be bleak and boggy. Families with younger kids might find an hour enough - it's not a destination that holds attention indefinitely. But if you're staying at one of the caravan parks nearby for a proper walking holiday, Newsham Tarn makes a pleasant half-day excursion. Thorpe Farm Centre is closer but more modest; Newsham works better as a waypoint than a main event.