Hurworth Burn Reservoir is located in County Durham, between Trimdon and Wingate, where the River Skerne meets the Hurworth Burn. The reservoir was used in the 19th century to provide water for Hartlepool’s shipbuilding industry and in 1880 it acquired its own railway station, Hurworth Burn. The North Eastern railway line ran from Stockton to Hartlepool and its remains can be still seen from the reservoir through to Castle Eden Walkway. The reservoir is part of the £3.5 million Discover Brightwater Landscape Project, funded by the National Lottery. The project has aimed to improve river habitats, create wetlands and engage local communities in the area’s heritage and archaeology in order to increase visitors. This rural spot is an extremely tranquil and picturesque place to sit and appreciate the beauty of the North East all year round. It has plenty of benches around the reservoir for you to relax and admire the spectacular views of the water and surrounding fields. A haven for eagle-eyed birdwatchers, the wetlands attract a beautiful array of birds such as swans, ducks, kingfishers and cormorants. The large open water is also a popular fishing spot as it is home to a wide variety of fish including rainbow trout, carp, bream, roach and perch.
Walk from Wynyard Woodland Park to Hurworth Burn Reservoir (3.4 Miles, 6.8 Miles Both Ways)
This trail follows a mix of paved, grassy and stony paths through farmlands and woodlands. Although this walk is predominantly straight and flat, it has a few steeper inclines that may be muddy during winter months and rainy seasons. The walk involves some stiles, kissing gates and a footbridge. It is a perfect walk for dog owners and for families.
This beautifully scenic woodland trail starts from the small car park on the opposite side of the road (A689) to Wynyard Woodland Walkway. Here, you make your way straight down the road, past the farms following the blue signs for Sunderland. After around a mile, turn left and follow the public footpath signs into the trees where you continue to follow the trail in a straight line for just over 4 miles. Just before you reach the reservoir, you will cross a footpath over Hurworth Burn Road. Eventually, you will reach the incredible sights of Hurworth Burn Reservoir where you can take a rest on the many benches and admire the view.
Access
There is a small car park located at the start of the walk off the main road (A689). If this is full, there is a larger car park on the opposite side of the road for the Wynyard Woodland Walkway. Both car parks are free. If you are starting the walk from the reservoir, there is a small car park off Hurworth Burn Road.
If you are using a satnav, the nearest postcode for Hurworth Burn Reservoir is TS27 3BQ. The nearest postcode for Wynyard Woodland Walkway is TS22 5NN.
There are no public toilets on this trail.
