Whorlton Village and Whorlton Waterfall Circular Walk
Whorlton is a beautiful Teesdale village full of character, with stone houses and a strong sense of history. This gentle circular walk starts in the heart of the village and reaches a small but charming waterfall on Whorlton Beck just a few minutes in. From the waterfall the route follows the river through peaceful woodland before looping back across open fields to return to Whorlton. It is a short, steady walk that offers village history, flowing water and calm countryside, making it ideal for reconnecting with nature without going far.
Quick Facts
Distance: 3.8 miles
Time: Around 1 hour 15 minutes
Elevation Gain: Gentle with small rises
Start Point: Whorlton village street parking (DL12 8XD)
Route Type: Circular
Terrain: Quiet lanes, riverside paths, woodland and fields
Difficulty: Easy
Dog Friendly: Yes, but use leads near livestock
OS Map: Explorer OL31
Digital Route: See the route on Hiiker
Parking at Whorlton
There is no designated car park in Whorlton. Parking is available on the roadside through the village. Please park considerately and leave space for residents, farm vehicles and emergency access. The walk begins directly from the village.
Route Description
Start your walk in the centre of Whorlton village, taking a moment to look around before setting off. The village has a strong historic feel, with traditional stone buildings and a peaceful atmosphere that sets the tone for the walk.
Near the centre of the village you will pass the Whorlton village fountain. This stone fountain was installed as a public water supply and later became a village landmark. It is commonly associated with the late Victorian period and remains an important reminder of everyday village life before modern plumbing.
A short distance away stands the old village school, easily recognised by the date 1848 carved above the doorway. The building has long since closed as a school and is now a private residence, but the date stone is a clear reminder of Whorlton’s nineteenth century community life.
Continue through the village towards the far end, where you reach a quiet lane opposite the former village pub, now closed. Follow this lane as it gently descends away from the village. Almost immediately the countryside begins to take over, with hedgerows, birdsong and open views replacing houses.
Just a few minutes into the walk you arrive at a small but absolutely charming waterfall on Whorlton Beck. Tucked beside the lane, this little cascade feels like a hidden surprise right on the edge of the village. It is a lovely spot to pause, listen to the water and take in how quickly the landscape changes from village to nature.
After the waterfall, bear right and join the riverside path. The route now follows the water through quiet woodland, with trees closing in and the sound of the river guiding your way. This section feels peaceful and sheltered, especially in warmer months when the leaves are full.
As the woodland begins to thin, the path leads you out into open fields. Here the walk opens up with wider views across the surrounding countryside. Follow the clear field paths as they gently curve back towards Whorlton, gradually climbing back towards the village.
The route eventually returns you to Whorlton, completing a gentle and rewarding circular walk that packs village character, a waterfall, woodland and riverside scenery into a surprisingly short distance.
Whorlton Waterfall
A small but beautiful waterfall on Whorlton Beck, reached just a few minutes after leaving the village. Tucked beside the lane, it feels like a hidden surprise right on the edge of Whorlton.
What You’ll See on This Walk
This walk may be short, but it offers a varied mix of scenery and local character.
Whorlton Village Green
A quiet and welcoming part of the village with open space, mature trees and a strong sense of local character.
Whorlton Jubilee Fountain
A historic village fountain installed to mark Queen Victoria’s Jubilee in 1887. It later served as a public water supply and remains an important village landmark.
Village Lane and Stone Walls
A narrow lane leading out of Whorlton, lined with traditional stone walls and hedgerows as the walk gently leaves the village behind.
Whorlton Beck Woodland
A peaceful stretch following the river through woodland, with flowing water, birdsong and shaded paths creating a calm and natural atmosphere.
A Moment of Calm at Whorlton Waterfall
This Whorlton circular walk shows how quickly you can step away from everyday noise and into nature. Within minutes you are standing beside flowing water, then walking quietly along the river and through open countryside. At Outdoor Exploring Family we believe walks like this matter. They offer space to slow down, breathe and enjoy simple moments outdoors, without needing a long or demanding route.
About This Walking Guide
This guide is part of Discover Teesdale, our local guide to walks, waterfalls and peaceful places across Teesdale. This route has been walked and photographed by us and includes clear directions, real landmarks and local knowledge to help visitors explore Whorlton village, Whorlton Beck and the surrounding countryside with confidence. It is designed for anyone looking for an easy circular walk featuring a small waterfall, riverside paths and village history.