Cow Green Reservoir: A Hidden Gem in Upper Teesdale
2024-06-13
Completed in 1971, Cow Green Reservoir not only serves a vital functional purpose but also enhances the natural beauty of the surrounding area. It is a great place to visit, both for individuals and families.
A main highlight of Cow Green is its moorland walk, which provides a great opportunity for a peaceful and relaxing stroll. The waterfall at Cauldron Snout is another top attraction worthy of a visit. The fall is truly a spectacular sight to behold.
Cow Green is especially popular with bird watchers, trout fishermen, and, in short, all nature lovers. Its night skies are another marvellous sight, providing a fantastic stargazing opportunity. Read on to learn more about Cow Green Reservoir’s top attractions.
Picturesque Walking Paths
Cow Green Reservoir offers an array of picturesque walking paths that meander through the stunning Upper Teesdale landscape. At Cow Green, not only will you have a lovely view of the Pennine Way, but you can also join the moorland path for a relaxing walk.
Pennine Way is a 431 kilometres of walking trail that starts in the Peak District and stretches to the borders of Scotland. It caters to all levels of walkers and promises an immersive outdoor experience.
There is another circular 12-kilometre loop trail near the reservoir you may try. For this, you should take the path that is part of the Pennine Way, go past the dam, Cauldron Stairway, and the beautiful waterfall. On the way, you will be able to observe a farmhouse, grazing fields, and then join the road.
Ideal for Fishing
Fishing is a pretty rewarding experience and a wonderful outdoor activity. As a fishing enthusiast, you will hardly find any place better than Cow Green waters. In the relaxing, tranquil waters of the reservoir, you have a chance to start trout fishing. Trouts are natives of the UK, and are a real joy to catch.
Trouts can usually be found in cool waters of streams and lakes, making Cow Green Reservoir an ideal habitat for them. Their flesh is extremely nutritious and, depending on your taste, more delicious than that of other species of salmonids.
To fish at the Cow Green Reservoir, you need to book a permit, which allows you to catch 12 fish in a day. To avoid invasive species and any other possible harmful effects, you need to make sure not to bring any animals or plants, such as shrimp, crayfish, and mussels.
Great Spot for Nature Lovers
Apart from trout fishing, lovers of nature can take in the view of the Pennine Way, get a view of the dam wall, or spend their time bird-watching. For nature enthusiasts, Cow Green Reservoir is a haven teeming with wildlife and rare plant species.
Some of the birds you may spot at Cow Green are:
- Red Grouse is a medium-sized bird of the grouse family that is typical of the moorlands of England and Ireland.
- The European Golden Plovers have year-round presence in the reservoir and its surroundings. They are powerful in flight and are known for their rapid wingbeats.
- The Northern Lapwings, famous for their short legs, rounded wings, and crest, are another important inhabitant of the reservoir’s landscape. They often mix with golden plover flocks and can be seen together with them.

Dark Skies
Cow Green Reservoir is also celebrated for its dark skies, making it an excellent location for stargazing. It is a wonderful spot to watch the starry skies and study the planets and meteors. Here, you can have some of the best views of meteor showers across England.
For a more rewarding experience, you may go to Grassholme Observatory, 20 kilometres south of the reservoir. The observatory runs the dark sky events in the new moon phase. It is the time when the sun is not illuminating the moon, and the sky is therefore the darkest.
You may visit the observatory at any time and in any season. Each season, the dark sky offers something different. For instance, you may see the Winter Milky Way in the cold season, or observe constellations like Leo and Coma in the spring.
Nearby Attractions
The area surrounding Cow Green Reservoir boasts a wealth of nearby attractions that cater to a variety of interests. A few kilometres from the reservoir, you will be able to see the High Force Waterfall. It is one of the most impressive waterfalls in England, located within Dorham Dales. It provides a great opportunity for a day with the family.
13 kilometres from the reservoir, you will come across another body of water called Grassholme Reservoir. It is another top attraction for nature lovers and a lovely place for fishing and walking.
Some of the other attractions around Cow Green Reservoir are Yad Moss Ski Resort, Cross Fell Mountain, and Killhope Lead Mining Museum.
A Relaxing Stay at Lovelady Shield Hotel
After a day of exploring the breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders of Cow Green Reservoir, Lovelady Shield Hotel offers the perfect retreat to unwind and continue your immersive experience in the serene beauty of Upper Teesdale.
The elegant rooms are thoughtfully designed to offer comfort and relaxation, featuring plush furnishings and contemporary facilities. A stay at the hotel is the perfect way to extend your adventure, relax in comfort, and explore even more of what this stunning region has to offer.
