Kielder Water

Kielder Water is a large man-made reservoir in northern England, set within extensive planted forest and parkland. It is one of the major reservoirs in the region and forms the core of a managed water and recreation area.

The site offers lakeside and forest recreation including walking, cycling, and watersports, with marked trails and viewpoints around the water’s edge. Wildlife watching is common, and the surrounding forest provides large areas for outdoor activities.

The area is also known for astronomy activities because of its dark skies; a public observatory close to the reservoir runs regular events for visitors. Facilities at the water and in the park support day visits and organised outdoor recreation.

The reservoir was created in the late 20th century by impounding a river to provide water resources, and the surrounding woodlands were developed as a managed forest and park. Since then the site has been managed for both water supply and public recreation.

Kielder Water sits in northern England within a large forested park in a remote part of the country, surrounded by managed woodland and moorland.

• Dark skies: Best stargazing opportunities occur on clear nights thanks to low light pollution in the surrounding forested area.
• Outdoor activities: The reservoir and surrounding forest offer a mix of waterside trails and forest paths; the perimeter can be followed on multiuse trails for long-distance walking and cycling.

What to See #

• Dam: A concrete dam and spillway impound the reservoir at its western end, forming the lake and regulating outflow.
• Kielder Water & Forest Park: A large managed area of woodland and open water around the reservoir that provides trails, viewpoints, and recreational facilities for walking, cycling and watersports.
• Kielder Observatory: A public observatory located on a forested hill near the reservoir that hosts night-time astronomy events and benefits from the area's dark skies.