Osmotherley and Cod Beck Reservoir Loop

Cod Beck Reservoir sits in a fold of the western North York Moors above the village of Osmotherley, and this 4.8km loop circles the water through woodland and open moorland fringe. The reservoir was built to supply Northallerton and has a quiet, tucked-away character, with the surrounding hills rising to heather moorland above the treeline. Osmotherley itself is a handsome stone village at the western edge of the moors, the official start of the Lyke Wake Walk, and has a welcoming, unhurried atmosphere. Despite the modest distance, there's 245 metres of cumulative ascent as the path rises and falls around the water, giving the walk more substance than a simple lakeside stroll.

This is a pleasant dog friendly walk with moderate off-lead potential through the woodland sections and on the quieter moorland approaches. Leads are needed where sheep graze the surrounding moorland, particularly near the reservoir edges where the paths cross grazing land. The reservoir provides water access for dogs, though the managed banks mean using designated access points. The heather moorland above the reservoir is particularly beautiful in late summer when the purple blooms are at their peak. Osmotherley village has several dog-friendly establishments, including the Golden Lion and the Queen Catherine Hotel, both with a genuine welcome for walking dogs. A compact walk with enough climbing and variety to feel worthwhile.