Walks from Bowlees Visitor Centre in Teesdale
Bowlees is one of the best starting points for walks in Upper Teesdale, offering easy access to waterfalls, riverside paths and open moorland routes. From short, gentle walks near the car park to longer routes following the River Tees, this area is packed with some of the most rewarding scenery in the North Pennines. Starting from Bowlees Visitor Centre, you can reach hidden waterfalls, peaceful woodland paths and some of the most iconic natural landmarks in the area, all without needing to travel far. Whether you are looking for a quick stop, a relaxed wander or a longer day out, these walks give you a simple way to explore Teesdale at your own pace.
On this page, you will find a collection of walks from Bowlees, each with clear routes, highlights and what to expect along the way, along with simple directions and digital maps so you can plan your walk and follow each route with confidence.
Best Walks from Bowlees Visitor Centre
Hidden Waterfall near Bowlees Visitor Centre
A short and easy stop just moments from Bowlees Visitor Centre, this small hidden waterfall sits quietly beneath Bow Lee Bridge. Most visitors walk straight past without realising it is there, making it one of the easiest and most overlooked spots in Teesdale.
Distance: Around 2 minute walk
Route type: Short out and back
Difficulty: Easy
Perfect as a quick stop before heading further along the river.
Summerhill Force and Gibson’s Cave Walk from Bowlees
One of the most atmospheric short walks from Bowlees, this route leads through woodland to a beautiful waterfall flowing in front of a natural cave. It is a calm and sheltered spot with a real sense of place, popular with photographers and families alike.
Distance: Around 1 mile return
Route type: Out and back
Difficulty: Easy
A great first walk if you want something short but memorable.
Bowlees Short Circular Walk
A gentle circular walk from Bowlees Visitor Centre that quickly opens into wide Teesdale views before returning along a peaceful woodland path beside Bow Lee Beck. It is a short route that feels more varied than the distance suggests, with open countryside, a small stream crossing and a calm finish through the trees.
Distance: Around 1.4 miles
Route type: Circular
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Perfect if you want a short walk that still feels like a proper Teesdale experience.
Low Force Waterfall Walk from Bowlees
A gentle riverside walk to one of Teesdale’s most peaceful waterfalls. Low Force flows in a series of wide cascades over the Whin Sill, with woodland paths, stepping stones and the historic Wynch Bridge adding interest along the way.
Distance: Around 1 mile return
Route type: Out and back
Difficulty: Easy
Ideal for a relaxed walk with plenty to see in a short distance.
High Force Waterfall Walk from Bowlees
This classic Teesdale walk follows the River Tees upstream, passing Low Force before reaching the dramatic drop of High Force. It is a slightly longer route with changing scenery and one of the most powerful waterfalls in England as the reward.
Distance: Around 4.2 miles return
Route type: Out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
A must do walk if you are visiting Bowlees for the first time.
Bleabeck Force Walk from Bowlees
A quieter extension beyond High Force, this walk leads to one of Teesdale’s hidden waterfalls. Bleabeck Force is tucked just off the main path and is often missed, offering a more peaceful and less crowded experience.
Distance: Around 5.1 miles return
Route type: Out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
Perfect if you want to escape the busier spots and explore further.
Flushiemere Beck Waterfall Walk from Bowlees
A more adventurous route heading away from the main paths into quiet woodland and open fields. This walk leads to a small but beautiful waterfall on Flushiemere Beck, with a real sense of discovery along the way.
Distance: Around 2.2 miles return
Route type: Out and back (with circular options)
Difficulty: Moderate
A great choice if you enjoy finding lesser known places.
Bowlees Moorland Circular Walk via Low Force, High Force and Bleabeck Force
This longer circular route brings together some of the best features of Upper Teesdale, combining riverside paths, open moorland and three waterfalls into one rewarding walk. It offers a real sense of space and variety throughout.
Distance: Around 6.9 miles
Route type: Circular
Difficulty: Moderate
The best option if you want a full day walk from Bowlees.
Why Start Your Walk at Bowlees Visitor Centre
Bowlees is more than just a starting point, it is a place where some of Teesdale’s best walks naturally come together. Within a short distance, you can move from quiet woodland paths to powerful waterfalls, or head further out onto open moorland where the landscape begins to feel wilder and more remote.
What makes walking from Bowlees so special is how easy it is to shape your day. You can keep things simple with a short walk to a nearby waterfall, or link routes together to create a longer journey through the Upper Tees valley.
If you are planning your visit, take a moment to explore the main Bowlees Visitor Centre page for parking, facilities and tips to help you make the most of your time here.
Bowlees Visitor Centre FAQs
What walks can you do from Bowlees Visitor Centre?
Bowlees is one of the best starting points in Teesdale, with walks to Low Force, High Force, Gibson’s Cave, Summerhill Force and Bleabeck Force, as well as longer circular routes.
How far is the walk from Bowlees to High Force?
The walk from Bowlees Visitor Centre to High Force is around 1.5 miles each way, following the River Tees past Low Force and across Wynch Bridge.
Where do Bowlees walks start?
All walks start from Bowlees Visitor Centre car park near Newbiggin in Teesdale, making it an easy and well signposted place to begin.
Is there parking at Bowlees Visitor Centre?
Yes, there is a car park at Bowlees Visitor Centre. It is usually donation based and provides direct access to the main walking routes.
Are there toilets and a café at Bowlees Visitor Centre?
Yes, Bowlees Visitor Centre has toilets and a café serving drinks and light meals.
Do Bowlees walks include a map or GPX route?
Yes, each walk guide includes an interactive map and a GPX file that can be downloaded and used with most hiking apps.