Low Force Waterfall – Family Walk in Teesdale
Looking for North East waterfalls or a fun family day out near Barnard Castle? Low Force in Teesdale is perfect and just a short, easy 10–15 minute walk from Bowlees car park, with peaceful views and plenty to enjoy along the way.
Why Visit Low Force?
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Family-friendly: Short, gentle, well-marked paths.
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History & geology: Close to the historic Wynch Bridge and volcanic Whin Sill rocks.
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Nature: Part of the North Pennines AONB and UNESCO Global Geopark.
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Peaceful beauty: It’s smaller than High Force but quieter and more relaxed.
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Perfect location: Great if you’re looking for things to do near Barnard Castle or things to do in Middleton in Teesdale.
Bowlees Visitor Centre
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Café & treats – Hot drinks, snacks, and local ice cream.
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Local art & gifts – Prints and crafts by local artists.
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Facilities – Toilets, baby change, and trail maps.
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Car park – Suggested donation (£2–£4), supporting the North Pennines. Postcode DL12 0XE
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Eco touches – EV charging point and public Wi-Fi.
The Walk from Bowlees Car Park
Start at Bowlees car park (a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site perfect for stargazing later). Cross the little wooden bridge and look for the mud kitchen by the beck, a small play area with pots and pans that our boys always love.
From there, head up the steps past Bowlees Visitor Centre. Follow the path straight down to the main road, cross carefully, and go through the big wooden gate. Suddenly, you’re in open fields with fresh air, wide skies, and the sound of the river ahead.
Keep to the marked path until you reach another gate – or squeeze between the two standing rocks beside it (our family joke is that it’s the “scone test” after a café stop!). Carry on a little further and you’ll arrive at Low Force waterfall.
(Optional: if you want extra views, you can cross Wynch Bridge – a wobbly 1830s suspension bridge – but you don’t need to cross it to reach the falls.)
💧 About Low Force Waterfall
Low Force is a natural waterfall on the River Tees, flowing over dramatic Whin Sill rock formations. Just upstream, the protected Bowlees and Friar House Meadows, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, burst into colour in summer with rare wildflowers and traditional hay meadows. Parts of the film 1917 and Netflix’s The Witcher were also filmed here some views may feel straight out of a movie set.
We love bringing a snack and finding a safe, peaceful spot to soak it all in. It’s one of those places where you truly pause, listen to the river, and enjoy the calm.
🐾 Perfect for Families & Dogs
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Flat, short walk suitable for most buggies (though the swing bridge is narrow.
- Yes, dogs are welcome at Low Force waterfall in Teesdale – keep them on a lead near livestock.
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Ideal for younger children and beginner walkers looking for a short but rewarding trail.
📸 Hidden Gem Alert
Low Force may be quieter than its big sister High Force, but its charm, shorter walk, and peaceful vibe make it our Teesdale favourite. We always recommend it to friends looking for a relaxed North East waterfall escape.
Nearby Things to Do
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High Force Waterfall – One of England’s most famous falls.
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Barnard Castle – Market town with shops, cafés, and the Bowes Museum.
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Middleton in Teesdale – Riverside walks, pubs, and tearooms.
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Hannah’s Meadow Nature Reserve – Beautiful hay meadows once farmed by Hannah Hauxwell.
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Bleabeck force - Just past high force this hidden gem is a must see
Q&A – Low Force Waterfall
Q: How long does the Low Force walk take?
A: About 10–15 minutes from Bowlees car park, on an easy path suitable for children and families.
Q: Do you have to cross Wynch Bridge?
A: No – the bridge is optional. You can reach Low Force without crossing it, but many visitors enjoy the thrill and views.
Q: Is it good for a family day out?
A: Definitely – it’s short, safe, and has fun extras like the mud kitchen. It’s one of the best family days out in the North East.
Q: What else is nearby?
A: Visit High Force, Barnard Castle, or Middleton in Teesdale for a full day out.
Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: Yes, dogs love this walk – just keep them on the lead around livestock.
Disclaimer: We’re not affiliated with Bowlees Visitor Centre or any local authorities. All routes and information shared on our site are based on our own family experiences and personal adventures. Please check local signs, conditions, and weather before setting out, and explore safely and responsibly. Paths and access can change over time.