Today’s route took us out from Wolsingham and up towards Tunstall Reservoir for a steady 12 km circular through woodland, open ground and valley views. It was cold and windy for much of the walk, with that proper North East bite in the air. But every so often the weather broke, patches of clearer sky, softer light across the reservoir, and moments where everything felt calm again. The steady climb out gave us warmth quickly, and once we were up higher the views opened out across Weardale. We decided to take a short cut across the reservoir section, keeping the route flowing and the group moving comfortably. It wasn’t dramatic conditions, just honest winter walking. The kind that makes you appreciate the breaks in the weather all the more. And to finish it properly, a well-earned Sunday lunch afterwards. Exactly how it should be. A solid local route, done at a steady pace, in good company. One good walk at a time. 👣

For those who will be attending today we are parked in Demesne Mill Car Park in Wolsingham. It’s the central car park and we will use this as our starting point.

Location: Wolsingham, County Durham Date: 01/03/2026 Time: Meet in Wolsingham at 09.00 Route: Wolsingham to Tunstall Reservoir Circular Distance: 12.3 km Ascent: 356 m Time: Around 3–3.5 hours Difficulty: Moderate, steady terrain This is a really satisfying local circular that blends woodland tracks, open countryside and reservoir views without committing to big hill climbs. We’ll leave Wolsingham gradually, climbing through quieter ground before opening up towards Tunstall Reservoir. The ascent is steady rather than steep, making it a comfortable route to settle into. Once higher, the views stretch across Weardale and the surrounding farmland before looping back through varied terrain. It’s a route that keeps moving without feeling relentless, enough elevation to feel purposeful, but nothing technical or exposed.

Yesterday couldn’t have turned out better. A cold start in Grasmere, but as we climbed steadily towards Steel Fell the skies opened up and the views just kept stretching further. Fresh snow across the tops, crisp underfoot and that kind of clear winter light that makes everything feel sharp and still. From the summit, we had uninterrupted views for miles, across the central fells and down into the valleys below. The snow softened the landscape and gave the whole route a quiet, almost unspoken calm. A proper February walk. Cold, bright and worth every step. For anyone who doesn’t fancy the bigger climbs that come with the higher fells, but still wants to take in the vast beauty of the Lakes with straightforward access, this is a brilliant route. Easy parking to start, and plenty of food and drink options waiting in Grasmere at the end. All Trails map included. One good walk at a time. 👣

Steel Fell is a great choice for a winter walk because it gives you a real sense of height and openness without committing to exposed ridges or technical ground. The initial climb out of Grasmere is steady rather than sharp, which is ideal in colder conditions, it warms you up gradually without spiking effort. Once higher, the fell tops are broad and forgiving, with plenty of space to move comfortably and take breaks out of the wind if needed. The weather may break affording us clear winter light and long views, especially across the central fells. The loop works well at this time of year because the descent is gentle and varied, avoiding steep, slippery drops. It’s a route that flows nicely, keeps momentum, and feels satisfying without being draining. Cold, quiet, open, exactly the kind of walk that clears the head and sets the week up well.