River Lune

The River Lune rises high in the Pennines near Lune Head Farm, where Lune Head Beck and Cleve Beck meet. It flows eastward through Lunedale, passing quiet farms and moorland. Two reservoirs, Selset and Grassholme, slow its course before it turns north-east. Near Mickleton the Lune joins the River Tees after about twenty-five kilometres. Small hamlets like Grains o’ th’ Beck and Thringarth line its banks.

The Lune’s upper reaches gather water from several becks, including Connypot Beck and Goal Sike. These streams descend from Cumbrian slopes into County Durham. The river’s steady flow once powered mills and still supports wildlife along its banks. Its clean waters attract anglers seeking trout and grayling. The valley’s remoteness keeps the scenery unspoilt.

Visitors walk quiet paths beside the Lune’s clear waters. Moorland birds nest on the slopes above the river. Anglers cast lines into pools below old stone bridges. The reservoirs reflect the surrounding hills on calm days. At Mickleton the meeting of the Lune and Tees marks the end of one journey and the start of another.