Mountain Biking at Hamsterley Forest

Image of one of our directors enjoying the trails with a tiny person!

One of the North East’s premier trail centres, Hamsterley Forest offers a range of mountain biking routes suitable for beginners through to experienced riders. With flowing singletrack, technical descents and family-friendly trails, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking for outdoor activities near Barnard Castle. 

Valley Walks in Barnard Castle & Teesdale

Image of Egglestone Abbey in Autumn sun

Teesdale is renowned for its spectacular walking routes, including the iconic Low Force to High Force walk—one of the most popular waterfall trails in the UK.
The Teesdale Way also provides a longer-distance route following the River Tees through rolling countryside, making it ideal for both short walks and multi-day adventures.

Walking Routes in Barnard Castle & Teesdale

Outdoor Adventures with Wilderness

Image of Robson Green and Sara Davies enjoying a canyon trip with Rob

For those seeking something more adventurous, Wilderness offers a wide range of guided outdoor experiences across Teesdale and beyond.
Activities include:

• Canyoning through dramatic gorges
• Paddleboarding and canoeing on reservoirs such as Balderhead
• Rock climbing at Goldsborough Carr
• River trips on the Tees and further afield

These experiences are designed for individuals, families and groups looking to explore the landscape in a more immersive way.

Outdoor Activities in Barnard Castle & Teesdale

Close to the Yorkshire Dales & Beyond

Barnard Castle sits just outside the Yorkshire Dales National Park, making it an ideal base for exploring both regions. It’s also within easy reach of Durham, Darlington and Newcastle, making it perfect for a day trip or weekend adventure.

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Take a look at our suggested itinerary for a trip to Barnard Castle and Teesdale
Barnard Castle Itinerary

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Frequently asked Questions

What outdoor activities can you do in Barnard Castle?
You can enjoy walking, cycling, canyoning, paddleboarding, climbing and river adventures across Teesdale.

Is Barnard Castle in the Yorkshire Dales?
Barnard Castle lies just outside the Yorkshire Dales National Park but is often used as a base to explore both areas.

Where are the best walks in Teesdale?
Popular routes include Low Force to High Force and sections of the Teesdale Way.
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Can beginners try adventure activities in Teesdale?
Yes, many guided activities are suitable for beginners, including paddleboarding and canyoning experiences.

How can you get to Barnard Castle?
Barnard Castle has great road links with the A66 transpennine route connecting the A1 in the east & M6 in the west passing a few miles south of town. Public transport is extensive with a local bus service connecting all the village and nearby towns including Darlington which is on the main line train route from London to Edinburgh.

​What's the accommodation like?
​From holidays cottages, hotels, youth hostels, campsites and shepherds huts there's accommodation to suit every preference.