The best walks and hikes around Bowes

Yes, Bowes is an excellent starting point for circular hikes. The area offers several well-marked loops that begin and end in the village, allowing you to explore the River Greta valley, nearby moorlands, and historical sites without needing to retrace your steps. These range from short, family-friendly strolls to more demanding all-day treks.

The trails around Bowes are generally dog-friendly, with many paths through open countryside. However, you will be walking through the North Pennines, an area with active farmland and sensitive wildlife. Always be prepared to keep your dog on a lead, especially near livestock and during bird nesting season (typically March to July).

Yes, the most notable waterfall is Mill Force, a picturesque cascade on the River Greta. It's located in a wooded area and was once the site of a village mill. You can reach it via a short, family-friendly circular walk from the village that also takes in the castle ruins.

Definitely. For a short and scenic outing suitable for most family members, the walk to Mill Force waterfall and Bowes Castle is ideal. It's a gentle circular route of just over a mile, offering a great mix of nature and history without being too strenuous.

Bowes has limited public transport options, primarily local bus services connecting to nearby towns like Barnard Castle. For most trailheads, especially those starting directly from the village, arriving by bus is feasible. However, for routes starting further afield, such as near the Tan Hill Inn, a car is almost essential. Always check the latest bus timetables before you travel.

Yes, there is on-street parking available within the village of Bowes, which serves as a convenient starting point for many local trails. It's recommended to park considerately, respecting local residents. For popular routes, especially on weekends, arriving earlier in the day is a good idea to secure a spot.

The most famous pub in the region is the Tan Hill Inn, Britain's highest pub. It's a destination in itself and features on several longer, more challenging hikes across the moors, such as the Tan Hill Inn loop from Low Row. For walks centered around Bowes village itself, you will find pubs and cafes in the village to visit before or after your hike.

For a more strenuous day out, you can tackle a section of the Pennine Way, which passes through the area. The 'Bowes Loop' is a well-known, challenging day-hike of around 13-14 miles that takes in moorland terrain and key landmarks like God's Bridge. Another difficult option is the Sleightholme and Whaw Bridge loop from Tan Hill Inn, a long trek through the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

God's Bridge is a remarkable natural limestone bridge carved by the River Greta over thousands of years. It's a popular geological feature and a highlight on many local walks, including the Greta River – God's Bridge loop from Bowes. The river flows underneath this natural arch, making it a fascinating and scenic spot for a break during a hike.

Yes, the ruins of Bowes Castle are freely accessible and are a prominent feature on many walks starting from the village. This 12th-century Norman keep was built on the site of a Roman fort. You can explore the ruins and learn about its history from the information boards on site. For more details on visiting, you can check the English Heritage website.

The terrain is varied. You'll find gentle, well-defined paths along the River Greta, which are suitable for most walkers. As you venture onto the surrounding moors, such as Scargill Low Moor, the trails become more rugged and exposed. The Pennine Way sections can be particularly challenging with uneven ground and boggy patches, especially after rain. Appropriate footwear is essential.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning scenery of the North Pennines, the mix of riverside and moorland walking, and the historical interest provided by sites like Bowes Castle and God's Bridge.