We are the Darlington Dales and Hills Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Almost the whole of this walk is along the well-waymarked Teesdale Way. The outward route keeps above the south bank of the the river to the attractive village of Cotherstone, and crosses the Tees a little further on. The return leg is above the north side, and after descending the steep wooded banks, the last 1.5 miles (2.4km) is beside the river itself - a delightful and relaxing finale! Although quite a lengthy and undulating route, there is no particularly steep or difficult climbing. With magnificent views up and down Teesdale, beautiful woodland and grant riverside walking, it is worth taking plenty of time over this outstanding and highly memorable walk. (This is walk 24 from the Pathfinder guide to Durham, North Pennines and Tyne & Wear) Expected walk time 4.5 hours (plus a stop for lunch).
Please wear sturdy hiking boots / shoes, bring waterproofs (just in case), a packed lunch and 1 litre of water per person. On-street parking in Barnard Castle. We expect to visit a tea-room or pub after the walk. Meet at the start point of the walk. Car sharing may not be available this time (to be confirmed), but Barnard Castle is accessible by regular buses (or ask the walk leader who may be able to offer a lift from Darlington).
Meet outside Barnard Castle Methodist Church (where Galgate takes a sharp left turn to become Horsemarket). On-street parking available on Galgate, or in Morrisons / Galgate car park nearby (where there are public toilets).
