Teesdale Walks and Hiking Routes
Teesdale offers some of the most varied walking in the North Pennines, from peaceful riverside paths and gentle family trails to rugged moorland hikes with wide open views. Every route on this page has been personally walked and photographed by us, offering real guidance you can trust as you explore the dale at your own pace.
Many of these walks start in and around Barnard Castle, Middleton in Teesdale and nearby villages, making this a useful place to begin if you’re looking for walks across Teesdale, whether you want something short and easy or a longer day out in the hills.
Family & Easy Walks
Coldberry Lead Mine Circular Walk
Historic mining walk
A varied circular walk through Teesdale’s upland mining landscape, linking Coldberry, Marlbeck and High Skears lead mines. Open moorland paths, quiet woodland through Skears Plantation and waterside sections beside Marl Beck and Hudeshope Beck combine with remarkably well preserved mining remains. This is a walk for curious explorers who enjoy history woven naturally into the landscape, with space to pause, explore and imagine the lives once shaped here.
Bowes Waterfall Walk
Waterfall walk
A scenic circular walk from Bowes village linking three very different waterfalls. The route visits Huggill Force, follows the rocky gorge of Sleightholme Beck, and finishes with the woodland setting of Mill Force. With riverside paths, open countryside and quiet lanes, it is an easy to moderate walk that shows the variety Teesdale has to offer in a single loop.
Whorlton Village Circular Walk
Family walk
Whorlton village offers a peaceful mix of stone houses, flowing water and open countryside in the heart of Teesdale. This gentle circular walk starts in the village and reaches a small waterfall on Whorlton Beck just minutes in, before continuing along riverside paths through woodland and returning across open fields. It is an easy and rewarding walk for families and anyone looking for a calm escape into nature.
Thorsgill Wood Walk from Egglestone Abbey
woodland walk
Starting from Egglestone Abbey near Barnard Castle, this short circular walk leads into the quiet woodland of Thorsgill Wood. The route follows Thorsgill Beck past old bridges, mossy streams and small cascades before looping back across open fields with wider countryside views. It is an easy and peaceful walk, ideal for anyone looking to slow down and enjoy a calm Teesdale woodland route.
Deepdale Woods
A gentle circular walk starting in Whorlton village, reaching a small waterfall on Whorlton Beck just minutes in, before following riverside woodland and returning across open fields.
Hannah’s Meadow Walk
Family walk
A peaceful nature walk through the famous meadows once cared for by Hannah Hauxwell. This gentle route offers stunning reservoir views, rich wildflower life in summer and a calm sense of space all year round. Perfect for relaxed days out, family strolls and anyone wanting to enjoy a slower pace in quiet countryside.
Low Force Riverside Walk
Riverside walk
Follow a gentle section of the river Tees beside ancient rocks, swirling water and peaceful woodland as you approach the beautiful cascades of Low Force. This easy walk is full of viewpoints, places to stop and moments to enjoy the sound of the River Tees. A perfect short trail for families and nature lovers.
High Force Waterfall Walk
Waterfall walk
A short, rewarding path leading to one of England’s most powerful waterfalls. The walk is simple and well marked, making it ideal for families, first-time visitors or anyone wanting to enjoy dramatic scenery without a long hike. The thunder of High Force is unforgettable and easily reached on this popular route.
Summerhill Force & Gibson’s Cave
Waterfall walk
A beautiful woodland walk with several small cascades leading to Summerhill Force, where the water flows over the sheltered hollow of Gibson’s Cave. Atmospheric, peaceful and perfect for slow exploration, this route is loved by families and walkers searching for a magical woodland setting.
Bowes Castle & Mill Force Walk
Family walk / History walk
A peaceful circular walk combining local history with natural beauty. Explore the ruins of Bowes Castle before following a quiet path to Mill Force waterfall, where the beck flows past the remains of an old mill. A lovely route for families, photographers and anyone who enjoys calm countryside with a touch of heritage.
God’s Bridge Walk
Riverside walk
A gentle and scenic walk to one of Teesdale’s most unusual natural features: a limestone bridge formed entirely by nature. With riverside views, open countryside and easy going terrain, this walk is ideal for families, dog walkers and those wanting a unique landmark without a demanding route.
Bowlees Visitor Centre Walk
Family walk
A short, accessible walk beginning at Bowlees Visitor Centre, offering peaceful woodland scenery, small waterfalls and inviting picnic spots. This is a great introduction to Teesdale’s natural beauty and a perfect choice for families looking for a safe, enjoyable and easy route.
Flushmere Beck Walk
Short moorland walk
A peaceful upland walk following Flushmere Beck through quiet moorland. Small cascades, soft views and a sense of openness make this a relaxing short route for walkers wanting gentle terrain and time to enjoy the scenery. Ideal for those who prefer calm, uncrowded paths.
Barnard Castle to Abbey Bridge Circular Walk
Short moorland walk
A gentle circular walk beginning at the Market Cross in Barnard Castle. This easy route follows quiet riverside paths past the weir and towards Egglestone Abbey before crossing Abbey Bridge and looping back along the north bank of the River Tees. A calm, enjoyable walk close to town with a mix of historic landmarks, soft river views and peaceful open spaces.
Moorland & Open Landscape Walks
Black Force Hike
Moorland hike
A wild, remote route through the upper moorland of Teesdale, leading to the dramatic cascade of Black Force. This walk offers wide views, rugged paths and a true sense of solitude. Best suited to confident walkers who enjoy exploring quieter corners of the dale.
Rowton Beck Circular
Scenic circular walk
A varied circular walk across fields, streams and open moorland, offering constant views of Teesdale’s sweeping landscapes. This peaceful route is perfect for explorers wanting uncrowded paths and a relaxed day out surrounded by nature.
White Force Hike
Remote moorland hike
A quiet adventure into upper Teesdale’s open hills, leading to the tucked-away waterfall of White Force. With heather moorland, long views and a strong feeling of escape, this route is ideal for walkers who enjoy solitude and natural beauty.
High Force Circular Hike
Longer circular walk
A rewarding circular route combining High Force, Low Force and open moorland sections. This walk features dramatic scenery, riverside paths and broad upland views, making it one of the most varied and satisfying longer walks in Teesdale.
Balderhead Reservoir Circular Walk
Remote reservoir circular walk
A challenging circular route around Balderhead Reservoir that explores open moorland, wide reservoir views and a series of small, peaceful waterfalls. Crossing rough, open access ground and quieter tracks, this walk offers space, solitude and a strong sense of escape for confident walkers who enjoy wilder Teesdale scenery.
Sleightholme Beck Waterfall Circular Walk
Valley and moorland walk
Step into one of Teesdale’s peaceful hidden valleys on this scenic circular route. Pass the natural limestone arch of God’s Bridge, cross open moorland and descend into the beautiful Sleightholme Beck Waterfall, a series of carved rock pools and falls shaped by ancient geology.
More Walks Still to Come
We’re exploring every corner of Teesdale, from lesser known paths to remote upland routes. This guide will grow as we walk new trails, take real photographs and share honest, first-hand experience to help you discover even more of this remarkable valley.