The best walks and hikes around Gilmonby

Gilmonby offers a wide variety of hiking experiences with over 100 trails. You'll find options for all abilities, including approximately 34 easy routes, 56 moderate trails, and 11 more challenging hikes for experienced adventurers.

Yes, the area is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter attractive features like Mill Force waterfalls along the River Greta. A notable natural landmark is God's Bridge, a unique natural arch. For another waterfall, consider exploring Hard Level Force Waterfall.

Many routes incorporate historical interest. The ruins of Bowes Castle, a medieval structure built on a Roman fort, are a significant attraction. You can also find God's Bridge, a natural arch, which is a geological marvel.

Absolutely. Gilmonby offers several easy routes perfect for families. For instance, the Bowes Castle Ruins – Greta River loop from Bowes is an easy 2.2-mile (3.6 km) path that explores historic ruins and offers pleasant riverside views, ideal for a shorter family outing.

Many trails in Gilmonby are suitable for dogs, but it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially when crossing farmland or near livestock, and to protect local wildlife. Always follow the Countryside Code and clean up after your pet.

Yes, many of the hiking routes around Gilmonby are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Bowes Castle Ruins – Bowes Castle Ruins loop from Bowes, which is a moderate 6.6-mile (10.7 km) trail.

Parking is generally available in or near the villages that serve as trailheads, such as Bowes. Many routes start from these locations, offering convenient access to the trails.

The terrain around Gilmonby is diverse, ranging from expansive, wild moorlands like Gilmonby Moor to serene river valleys along the Greta and Sleightholme Beck. You'll encounter a mix of well-trodden paths, tracks originally for grouse shooters, and some rugged sections, including farmland and scarps like Spanham Scar.

For sweeping vistas, consider routes that ascend to higher ground. Citron Seat, at 446 meters, is the highest point on Gilmonby Moor and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Bowes and the moors above Teesdale. You can also find great viewpoints like Forefield Rake Cairn.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 470 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscape, from dramatic moorlands to tranquil river valleys, and the blend of natural beauty with historical sites like Bowes Castle. The variety of routes catering to different skill levels is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, the area features beautiful bodies of water. Blackton Reservoir is a notable spot, recognized for its wildlife, with its western end protected as a nature reserve. You can find routes like the Bowes Castle Ruins – Blackton Reservoir loop from Bowes that lead past it.

Spring and summer are particularly rewarding for hiking in Gilmonby, when the weather is generally milder and the natural beauty, such as the botanical importance of Sleightholme Beck Gorge, is at its peak. However, the varied terrain offers enjoyable experiences throughout the year, with moorland walks providing a sense of remoteness even in cooler months.