Route Description

From the Market Cross, head gently down The Bank with views opening towards the river below. As you walk down, look out for Blagraves House on your left, one of the oldest surviving buildings in Barnard Castle and full of character and history. Continue descending until you reach the Green Bridge and cross over the River Tees, taking a moment to pause for the lovely upstream view.

Once across the bridge, turn left onto the riverside path. This is a peaceful stretch and after a short while you will come to the old weir, a beautiful spot to stop, listen to the water and feel the calm of the Tees. Stay on the clear path as it winds past the caravan park and continues towards the fields.

Soon the path brings you to Bow Bridge, the old packhorse bridge over Thorsgill Beck. Cross the beck and follow the track ahead. Egglestone Abbey soon appears through the trees, standing quietly above the river since the twelfth century. It is well worth taking a few minutes to wander through the ruins and enjoy the atmosphere.

Continue along the lane to Abbey Bridge. This handsome eighteenth century stone arch once had toll booths at the end and you can still see the remains on the southern side. Cross with care and look for a small gap in the wall just after the bridge which leads you back towards the river.

You now join the Teesdale Way on the north bank. This section has a lovely mix of wooded corners, open fields and gentle river views. Keep following the path as it meanders beside the water and passes the remains of old mill workings along the river edge. Eventually the route leads you towards the Demesnes where the river scenery opens out.

From here a short climb brings you back towards the town. Follow the path to reach the top of The Bank where you began, or wander into the centre to explore the shops, cafés and small corners that make Barnard Castle such a welcoming place.

What You’ll See on This Walk

This gentle loop has a lovely mix of riverside scenery, history and quiet nature. As you make your way around the route, the landscape changes from town streets to peaceful woodland, open fields and views across the River Tees. Each part of the walk has something different to enjoy, whether it’s old stone bridges, wildlife on the river or the ruins of Egglestone Abbey coming into view.

A Moment of Calm by the Tees

This peaceful Barnard Castle loop brings together everything we love about exploring Teesdale. It has gentle riverside paths, moments of history and simple places to pause and breathe. At Outdoor Exploring Family we believe nature can support a calmer mindset, and walks like this are a reminder that you do not need to go far to find a little bit of quiet outdoors.

About This Walking Guide

This page is part of Discover Teesdale, our local guide to peaceful walks, riverside paths and quiet places around Barnard Castle. This route includes real photographs, simple directions and trusted local knowledge to help visitors explore the Market Cross, the Green Bridge, the weir, Egglestone Abbey and Abbey Bridge. It is designed for anyone looking for an easy and enjoyable walk close to the River Tees, with clear information that supports mindful time outdoors and a calmer mindset.