High Force Waterfall Walk from Bowlees, Teesdale
High Force is one of England’s most impressive waterfalls, and the walk from Bowlees is one of the best ways to experience it. This well known Teesdale route follows the River Tees upstream, passing Low Force, crossing the historic Wynch Bridge and building steadily towards one of the most powerful waterfalls in England. It is a walk filled with small details, changing scenery and a dramatic finish.
The route from Bowlees follows public footpaths and is free to walk, making it a popular way to experience High Force without needing to pay for access.
Quick Facts
Distance: Around 4.2 miles return
Time: Around 1 hour 20 minutes each way
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 family friendly
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
High Force is one of those places where you hear it before you see it, a low steady rumble tucked away behind the trees. The walk from Bowlees builds gently through quiet paths and woodland beside the River Tees, passing Low Force and the stone sheep sculptures before the landscape opens and the waterfall reveals itself ahead. It is a classic Teesdale walk with a little bit of everything.
Walking from Bowlees to High Force
Start at Bowlees Visitor Centre car park.
Cross the wide wooden bridge over Bow Lee Beck and follow the path up past the visitor centre building.
Continue straight ahead down the lane until you reach the main road.
Cross carefully, then go through the wooden gate opposite, signed for Low Force.
Follow the well marked gravel path across the field towards the large wooden gate and stone pillars.
Continue forward and head down towards the woodland. You can use the steps, or take the sloping path to the right if you prefer a gentler descent.
At the bottom, follow the path through the trees towards Low Force and the Wynch Bridge.
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 path beside the River Tees.
From here, the route stays close to the river, weaving between woodland sections, open viewpoints and rocky stretches as the sound of High Force slowly builds ahead.
Keep following the main path as it gradually climbs. You will usually hear the waterfall before you see it.
Arrive at the public footpath viewpoint for High Force.
From here, you can return the same way to Bowlees, or continue a little further upstream along the Pennine Way towards Bleabeck Force if you want to extend the walk.
Do You Have to Pay to See High Force?
The main High Force viewing platform is on private land and requires a small fee to access. However, this walk from Bowlees follows the public footpath along the River Tees and gives you a free view of the waterfall from the opposite side.
While the official viewpoint gets you closer to bottom of the waterfall, many people prefer the riverside walk for a quieter and more natural experience.
What You’ll See on the Walk
Wynch Bridge
A historic suspension bridge from the 1830s with gentle movement and lovely river views.
Low Force Waterfall
Stepped cascades flowing over the dark volcanic rock of the Whin Sill.
Stone Sheep Sculptures
Two carved sheep standing proudly beside the path, a popular photo stop for families.
High Force Waterfall
A dramatic single-drop waterfall and one of the most powerful sights in the North of England.
High Force from Above
A top down view of High Force showing the dark rock formations and the riverside path beside the waterfall.
High Force from Above
A top down view of High Force showing the dark rock formations and the riverside path beside the waterfall.
Things to Know Before You Go
The riverside path can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain, with some rocky sections near the water. The Wynch Bridge has a slight movement which is completely safe but can feel unusual if you have not crossed one before. Take your time and wear suitable footwear, particularly in wet conditions.
Is the High Force walk suitable for families?
Yes, the walk from Bowlees to High Force is suitable for families, but it is not a pushchair friendly route. The paths include uneven ground, steps and rocky sections near the river. Most children will enjoy the walk, especially the Wynch Bridge and Low Force, but care is needed near the water. From this side of the river there are no safety barriers at High Force, so children should be closely supervised at all times.
A Personal Moment by the River
There is something grounding about this walk. The mix of woodland, open riverbank and the steady presence of the river creates a feeling of space. High Force is powerful, but the journey to reach it is gentle and peaceful. At Outdoor Exploring Family we believe nature can help support a clearer, calmer mindset and walks like this are exactly why. They remind you to slow down, breathe and enjoy being outdoors.
A Moment of Calm
This isn’t a walk to rush. It’s a place to slow down, follow the river and take in the changing sounds and scenery along the way. From the quieter woodland paths to the steady build of the water as you approach High Force, there’s a natural rhythm to this route that encourages you to pause rather than push on.
Take your time here. Notice the movement of the river, the feel of the air and the space around you. Walks like this are not just about reaching the waterfall, but about finding a moment of calm and reconnecting with nature as you go.
Watch our short High Force walk video on TikTok – Outdoor Exploring Family.