The best walks and hikes around Hunderthwaite

Hunderthwaite offers a diverse network of over 15 hiking trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy strolls to more challenging excursions across the Pennine landscape.

The trails around Hunderthwaite range in difficulty. You'll find 5 easy routes perfect for a relaxed walk, 9 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge, and 2 difficult routes for experienced hikers looking for a strenuous adventure.

Yes, many of the routes around Hunderthwaite are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the easy route The Old Chapel Café – Fox and Hounds Pub loop from Cotherstone, which offers a pleasant village-based walk. For a moderate option, consider Around Balderhead Reservoir.

Hunderthwaite is generally dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for walks with your canine companion. However, always keep dogs under control, especially when crossing farmland with livestock, and be mindful of local signage regarding lead requirements. The open moorland and reservoir paths are often popular choices for dog walkers.

Absolutely. The area provides several easy routes suitable for families. The The Old Chapel Café – Fox and Hounds Pub loop from Cotherstone is an easy 2.9-mile path that's great for a family outing. Reservoir walks, like the View from Balderhead Dam – Blackton Reservoir loop from Hannah's Meadows SSSI, also offer relatively flat terrain and scenic views that children can enjoy.

Hunderthwaite is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the dramatic waterfalls of the River Tees, including the impressive High Force and the series of cascades at Low Force. The area also features several scenic reservoirs like Grassholme Reservoir, Blackton Reservoir, and Balderhead Reservoir, which offer tranquil walking paths. The expansive Pennine moorland provides vast, open spaces and panoramic views.

Yes, the region has historical intrigue. You might encounter the historic Wynch Bridge, a chain suspension bridge over the River Tees. To the west of Mickleton, walkers can discover Kirkcarrion Bronze Age Burial Mound, an enigmatic site with a copse of pine trees. Nearby villages like Romaldkirk, with its historic church, also add cultural context to your hike.

Public transport options to Hunderthwaite and its immediate vicinity can be limited due to its rural location. It's advisable to check local bus services for routes connecting to nearby larger villages like Middleton-in-Teesdale or Romaldkirk, from where some trails may be accessible on foot. Planning ahead is recommended.

Parking availability varies depending on your chosen starting point. Many popular trailheads, especially near reservoirs or key attractions like High Force, will have designated parking areas, often paid. For routes starting from villages like Cotherstone, you may find on-street parking or small village car parks. Always check local signage for restrictions and fees.

The best time to hike in Hunderthwaite is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the trails are less likely to be muddy or icy. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear due to potentially harsh weather conditions on the exposed moorland.

For experienced walkers seeking a challenge, Hunderthwaite offers more demanding routes. The Footbridge Over Hury Reservoir – Blackton Reservoir loop from River Balder is a difficult 11.8-mile (19 km) trail with significant elevation changes, providing a strenuous and rewarding experience through varied reservoir landscapes.

The trails in Hunderthwaite are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 600 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning natural beauty, particularly the dramatic waterfalls and serene reservoir paths, as well as the variety of routes suitable for different abilities. Many appreciate the sense of peace and remoteness found on the moorland trails.

While Hunderthwaite itself is a small hamlet, nearby villages offer options for refreshments. Cotherstone, for example, is the starting point for The Old Chapel Café – Fox and Hounds Pub loop, indicating local amenities. Romaldkirk also has a historic church and likely provides places to eat or drink. It's always a good idea to check opening times, especially in rural areas.