Kielder Water
Hexham, Northumberland
Kielder Water is a large man-made reservoir in the north of England, holding around 200 billion litres of water, and surrounded by dense forest; a truly tranquil location to explore with plenty of activities to enjoy. The reservoir has a 27-mile coastline and attracts walkers, cyclists, anglers, and all-round nature lovers. It is a ‘something for everyone’ location, whether you enjoy peaceful walks, exhilarating water sports, adventurous mountain bike trails, or even stargazing! Kielder Water and Forest is known for its incredible, award-winning, dark skies, making it an outstanding location for stargazing; located within the forest is Kielder Obsevatory, a unique must-visit location in Northumberland.
Many enjoy canoeing, sailing or paddleboarding on the water to take in the scenery, but if water sports aren’t your thing, then there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy. Try some of Kielder’s stunning walking routes surrounding the reservoir and find some of the incredible sculptures around the park; take a look here for some suggestions. In the vicinity of Kielder Water and Forest Park, you will also find plenty of cabin or lodge style accommodation, perfect for short breaks, as you can’t possibly explore all of Kielder in a day.
- Bike Rental – The Bike Place.
- Water Sports – can be booked at Kielder Waterside.
Nearby locations: Hareshaw Linn Waterfall and Sycamore Gap. Also featured on the Northumberland 250 road trip.
Prices
Kielder Water is free to visit, however parking charges apply and activities may cost extra.
Parking
As Kielder Water is so large, you should find the car park closest to your chosen activity; there are plenty of car parks around Kielder Water. Find more details below:
Just some of the car parks at Kielder Water and Forest Park:
- Hawkhope – Postcode: NE48 1BH
- Kielder Dam (South)/Lakeside View – Postcode: NE48 1BE
- Tower Knowe – you can pick up a fishing permit here. Also an overnight car park. Postcode: NE48 1BX
- Kielder Waterside – this is the best location for canoeing or paddleboarding.You can also pick up a fishing permit or join any of the Go Active activities (archery, tomahawk throwing, etc). Postcode: NE48 1BT
- Bakethin Nature Reserve – Postcode: NE48 1HD
- Kielder Castle – you can hire bikes opposite the car park at The Bike Place. Postcode: NE48 1EP
- Elf Kirk Viewpoint – Postcode: NE48 1BX
Overnight car parks (ideal for campers, but no tents):
- Elf Kirk Viewpoint Car Park – Postcode: NE48 1BX
- Tower Knowe Car Park – Postcode: NE48 1BX (nearby Elf Kirk Viewpoint car park).
- Kielder Castle Car Park – Postcode: NE48 1EP
- Anglers Arms Car Park – Postcode: NE48 1ER
**Prices correct as of April 2021**
