What’s the number one thing I miss in Chile? Family. And next on the list? Fresh air. We got plenty of both on a beautiful family walk in North Yorkshire.
We headed to Cod Beck reservoir in Osmotherley and filled our lungs with the fresh dewy scent of winter. The boys raced through icy puddles and streams, and Jo Jo the dog ran as fast as his four little legs would carry him.
Cod Beck reservoir is wonderful for a family walk. It’s pushchair friendly and not too long. It’s also one of the most beautiful.
Don’t let the photos fool you. There were arguments between the boys aplenty (‘that was MY stick!). Yet out in the open the screams didn’t seem so loud.
My favourite time here is dusk. As the sunshine melted into the hillside, we bid adios to North Yorkshire for another year or two.
Need to know:
There is a small car park just near the entrance to the reservoir and a larger car park a little further away (see map). Do be careful parking outside the designated spaces as you might get towed. The car parks fill up very quickly so get there early, especially on weekends.
It took us about an hour to complete the circuit round the reservoir. If you have older kids or more stamina, you can take a longer route, parking in Osmotherley village and walking to Cod Beck reservoir from there.
It can get very cold in the more exposed parts so wrap up warm in the colder months.
If your kids are like mine, they’ll get wet. Pack spare clothes (or at least socks and trousers).
There isn’t a cafe on the route, but there are plenty of beautiful picnic spots if you want to stop on the way. In Osmotherly village there are some great pubs and cafes.
The entire route is pushchair friendly. Just be careful when crossing the main road as traffic can be fast.
