Bleabeck Force Walk from Bowlees, Teesdale
Bleabeck Force is one of the quieter waterfalls in Upper Teesdale, tucked just beyond the well known High Force and often missed by those who turn back too soon.
This walk from Bowlees follows the River Tees upstream, passing Low Force, crossing the historic Wynch Bridge and continuing beyond High Force into a quieter stretch of the valley. It is a route that gradually loses the crowds, revealing a more peaceful side of Teesdale.
The route from Bowlees follows public footpaths and is free to walk, making it a simple way to experience multiple waterfalls in one journey.
Quick Facts
Distance: Around 5.1 miles return
Time: Around 3 hours return
Route type: Out and back
Start point: Bowlees Visitor Centre DL12 0XE
Parking: Bowlees Visitor Centre car park (paid)
Terrain: Fields, woodland and rocky riverside paths
Difficulty: Moderate but steady
Dog friendly: Yes, on a lead
Child friendly: Yes, with supervision near the river
Toilets and café: Available at Bowlees Visitor Centre
OS Map: Explorer OL31 North Pennines
Digital route guide: View on Hiiker
GPX files: Free download here
Interactive route map at the bottom of the page
A Short Introduction
This is a walk that changes as you go.
It begins gently from Bowlees, opens out towards Low Force, builds in power at High Force, and then gradually quietens again as you continue upstream.
Bleabeck Force sits just beyond the busiest part of the route, where the sound of the main waterfall fades and the path becomes calmer. It is not as dramatic as High Force, but that is exactly why it stands out.
Parking and Access
Parking for this walk is at Bowlees Visitor Centre, where there is a large donation pay and display car park available.
From here, the route is easy to follow. A well used riverside path leads you all the way towards Low Force, High Force and on to Bleabeck Force, with clear direction and a natural flow that is easy to navigate.
The path includes a mix of gravel tracks, woodland sections and open riverside stretches. There are a few small steps, a short uphill section and some uneven ground along the way, but overall it is a straightforward and enjoyable route.
While the walk is suitable for most people, it is not pushchair or wheelchair friendly due to the natural surfaces and changes in terrain.
Bowlees is one of the most popular and reliable parking spots for accessing waterfalls in Upper Teesdale.
Route Guide Step by Step
Start at Bowlees Visitor Centre car park, one of the most popular starting points for walks in Upper Teesdale.
Cross the wide wooden bridge over Bow Lee Beck and follow the path up past the visitor centre building. This first section is simple and easy to follow, easing you away from the car park and into the landscape.
Continue along the quiet lane until you reach the main road. Cross carefully, then go through the wooden gate opposite, clearly signed for Low Force.
From here, the path opens out across the field. It is well marked and easy to follow, leading you towards a large wooden gate with stone pillars.
Continue down towards the woodland, using either the steps or the sloping path. Both routes meet at the bottom.
As you reach the trees, the sound of the River Tees begins to build.
Follow the path and you will arrive at Low Force waterfall, where the river spreads across the rock in wide stepped cascades. Just ahead, the Wynch Bridge crosses the river.
Cross the Wynch Bridge, then turn right and climb the short set of stone steps.
At the top, pass the carved stone sheep and continue along the riverside path, following the River Tees upstream towards High Force.
The path stays close to the river, moving between woodland sections, open viewpoints and rocky stretches. As you continue, the sound of High Force gradually grows louder before the waterfall comes into view.
At High Force, take time to pause and enjoy the view.
Most visitors turn back here which is why the next section of the walk feels noticeably quieter.
To reach Bleabeck Force, continue past the High Force viewpoint along the same riverside path. This section of the walk becomes noticeably quieter.
After a short distance, you will reach a small bridge.
Before crossing, look to your left.
Bleabeck Force waterfall flows gently down through the rocks below, often missed unless you know where to look.
Bowlees Visitor Centre Teesdale
The walk begins at Bowlees Visitor Centre, a historic former chapel that now serves as a welcoming base for exploring Upper Teesdale. With its stone walls, quiet setting and nearby woodland, it feels like a natural starting point before heading out into the landscape.
Low Force Waterfall River Tees
Low Force spreads wide across the Whin Sill, forming a series of stepped cascades rather than a single drop. It is one of the most recognisable waterfalls in Teesdale and offers a powerful but calming first stop on the route.
Riverside Path along the River Tees
As the path continues upstream, it stays close to the River Tees, gently following its course through the valley. At times you are right beside the water, and at others slightly above, with wider views opening up along the way. The river becomes a constant presence, shaping both the landscape and the feel of the walk.
High Force Waterfall Upper Teesdale
High Force is one of England’s most impressive waterfalls, where the River Tees plunges over a dramatic rock edge into the gorge below. The sound builds as you approach, creating a real sense of arrival.
Bleabeck Force Teesdale
Just beyond High Force, Bleabeck Force appears quietly among the rocks. Smaller and less visited, it flows gently down stepped stone, offering a more peaceful and personal moment away from the main crowds.
Bleabeck Force in Winter
In colder months, Bleabeck Force transforms completely. Ice forms across the rock face, creating frozen shapes and patterns that make this hidden waterfall feel even more special.
Why Bleabeck Force Feels Different
Bleabeck Force is easy to miss, and that is part of its appeal.
While High Force draws most visitors, this small waterfall sits just beyond, often with no one else around. The flow is softer, the setting quieter, and the experience feels more personal.
It is less about spectacle and more about atmosphere a quieter side of Teesdale that many people miss.
Is This Walk Right for You
This is a longer version of the Low Force and High Force walk, but it follows a clear and steady riverside route.
It is suitable for families who are comfortable with longer distances, though the terrain includes uneven ground, steps and some rocky sections along the way.
There are no safety barriers along parts of the river Tees, so care is needed, especially with children. Dogs are welcome but should be kept on a lead.
It is a simple and enjoyable walk, but one where taking your time and being aware of your surroundings makes all the difference.
A Moment of Calm
This is not a walk to rush. It is a journey through Teesdale, taking in three very different waterfalls, Low Force, High Force and Bleabeck Force, each with its own character and pace.
By the time you reach Bleabeck Force, everything softens. The crowds fade, the sound of the river settles, and the path feels quieter.
After visiting the waterfall, take a moment to sit on the grass bank beside the River Tees. Listen to the water moving over the rock, the trees shifting gently in the breeze, and the stillness of the valley around you.
It is a simple moment, but one that stays with you. A chance to slow down, connect with the landscape, and just be present.
It is one of those walks in Teesdale that stays with you long after you have left.
Explore More from Bowlees
Bowlees is one of the best starting points in Teesdale.
From here, you can visit Low Force, continue to High Force, or follow quieter paths to Summerhill Force and Gibson’s Cave. The former Bowlees Quarry is also just a short walk from the car park.
Each route offers something slightly different, but they all begin in the same place.
Explore more in Teesdale
Bleabeck is one of many peaceful upland waterfalls in Teesdale. Continue your journey through wild scenery and open skies:
Looking for more places to visit in Teesdale
💚 Looking for calm after your adventure?
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Staying Fuelled on Your Adventures
If you enjoy longer walks like this one, it’s worth checking out Huel Lite, a lighter, smoother version of Huel’s ready-to-drink meal. It’s packed with plant-based protein, fibre, and essential vitamins, making it perfect for hikes when you need quick, healthy fuel without carrying bulky food. We’ve tried it ourselves and found it ideal for days exploring places like Bleabeck Force.