Not all those who wander are lost
Date published 4 April, 2019
What is there at Millshield
There is more than one River Derwent in England, you know.
The reservoir shown above sits on the River Derwent on the borders of County Durham and Northumberland. Below this reservoir, the River flows through a fairly steep, but green, valley, joining the River Tyne not far west of Newcastle. The reservoir is 3.5 miles long, and in places, up to 100 feet deep, depending on how full it is.
For part of it, there is a pathway around the edge, which includes the path over the dam that holds the reservoir in place - and has done so since it was opened in 1967.
On a sunny day in winter a walk along this path will ensure a few nods of greetings to other walkers. Not far from the car park near the dam, a couple approached with a question about the walks.
This was their question. 'What is there at Millshield?'
Millshield is a picnic site on one end of the walking path - more or less at the northern most shore of the reservoir. It is a great spot, with many plants, a big view, and on many days, yachts playing at that end of the reservoir. You can even park up over night there, and enjoy the dark skies with immense views of stars, and glimpses of the Northern Lights being reported.
The reservoir is high up in the Northern Pennines, an area of outstanding natural beauty, and the whole of the 2 miles or so walk from where the question was asked involves this view.
Their eyes were glazing over by this point. My answer made no mention of cafes and fairground rides. In fairness, it was not for them, they asked a sensible question, and upon hearing the answer abandoned their visit.
There is not much at Millshield. But there is an amazing walk to arrive there.
That is why we travel, and explore, I guess. The journey is amazing. Just like the walk around the Derwent Reservoir
We are happy snappers!
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