The best walks and hikes around Barforth

Yes, the area is generally dog-friendly. The riverside paths and open farmland offer great spaces for dogs to explore. However, be mindful of livestock in fields and keep your dog on a lead where required. Many routes pass through stiles which may not be suitable for all dogs.

For families, look for shorter, flatter walks along the River Tees. The paths starting from Gainford are often a good choice, offering easy terrain and interesting sights like the Gainford Spa. The area around Piercebridge Roman Fort can also be engaging for children.

Yes, there are many excellent circular walks. A popular option is the Whorlton Bridge – Winston Bridge loop from Winston, which combines riverside scenery with two historic bridges. Most routes in the area are designed as loops, starting and ending in villages like Gainford or Winston.

Parking is generally found in the nearby villages rather than at Barforth itself, which is mostly private. Look for on-street parking in Gainford or Winston, which are common starting points for many of the main trails. Please park considerately.

The Teesdale Way is a 92-mile long-distance footpath following the River Tees. Many of the best walks around Barforth incorporate sections of this trail. You can easily do a day hike along the path, for example between the villages of Gainford and Piercebridge. For more details on the full route, you can visit the official Teesdale Way page.

The scenery is classic English countryside. Expect tranquil paths along the banks of the River Tees, walks through rolling farmland with grazing sheep, and sections that pass through small woodlands. You'll also encounter historic stone bridges and ruins.

The main walking routes connect villages like Gainford, Winston, and Piercebridge, where you can find traditional pubs and cafes for refreshments. It's a good idea to plan your route to pass through one of these villages midway or at the end of your hike.

For a longer, more challenging day out, consider the River Tees at Teesdale Way – Chapel Garth loop from Gainford. At over 21 km, it provides a substantial tour of the Teesdale landscape, combining riverside paths with open countryside.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of over 4.3 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful riverside scenery, the well-maintained public footpaths, and the mix of natural beauty and local history.

Absolutely. A key historical highlight is the Piercebridge Roman Fort, which is a feature on several popular walks from Gainford. You can also see the ruins of Egglestone Abbey and Barnard Castle on the Barnard Castle ruins – Egglestone Abbey Ruins loop from Whorlton.

No, the Barford Hall Foot Bridge is derelict and has been closed to the public for safety reasons. You should not attempt to use it. Plan your route using other established crossings like Winston Bridge or the bridge at Gainford.

There are over 45 curated hiking routes to explore around Barforth. They range from easy, short strolls of just a few kilometres to difficult all-day treks, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level.