The Cosmic Pond

The Cosmic Pond near Bishop Auckland is a proper oddity - a small lake that's become something of a local talking point thanks to its name alone. You won't find cosmic energy or anything mystical here, just a straightforward body of water surrounded by fairly ordinary moorland on the edge of County Durham's Pennine landscape.

It's the kind of place walkers stumble upon rather than deliberately seek out, which is probably its charm. The pond itself isn't dramatic - no cliffs, no grand vistas - but it does offer a quiet spot for a break on a longer hike across the moors. Birdwatchers might find something worthwhile depending on the season, and the water reflects nicely on a still day, though you won't be swimming or canoeing here.

Families with young children won't be wowed for long - maybe thirty minutes if the weather's decent and they're in the mood for a walk. For serious ramblers plotting routes across the Pennines, it's a reasonable waypoint rather than a destination in itself. The real value is as part of a larger moorland expedition rather than a standalone trip.

If you're based at Westgate Caravan & Camping Site just down the road, it's worth a morning poke around if you're exploring the Bishop Auckland area, but don't make a special journey. The nearest town gives you proper amenities and other attractions that'll fill a proper day out better than this will.