Attractions and Places To See around Ovington - Top 20

Ovington and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the innovative Whorlton Suspension Bridge, a Grade II* Listed Structure that opened in 1831 and is still supported on its original chains. Another significant site is the Winston Bridge, a stone bridge from 1762-3 that once boasted the longest single arch span in England. Further afield, you can explore the Barnard Castle Market Cross, an impressive octagonal pavilion built in 1747 that served as a market shelter, lockup, and courtroom.

Yes, several attractions cater to families. The Bowes Museum offers a variety of activities and events throughout the year, making it a great option for all ages. Additionally, the Winston Bridge area is considered family-friendly, offering nice views for a break. For a practical stop, the Eppleby Village Shop & Tea Room is a welcoming spot for families and cyclists alike.

The area around Ovington is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the 'Egglestone Abbey Ruins – Barnard Castle ruins loop from Whorlton' or the 'River Tees at Teesdale Way – Piercebridge Village Green loop from Gainford'. For more options, explore the Hiking around Ovington guide. Mountain biking is also popular, with routes like the 'Bowes Castle Ruins – Tan Hill Inn loop from Barnard Castle'. Check out the MTB Trails around Ovington guide for more details.

While specific 'easy' or 'accessible' trails are not detailed in the immediate vicinity of Ovington, the Barnard Castle Market Cross is noted as wheelchair accessible. The area's historical bridges like Whorlton Suspension Bridge and Winston Bridge offer scenic viewpoints that can be enjoyed without strenuous effort. For walks, consider the 'River Tees at Teesdale Way – Piercebridge Village Green loop from Gainford' which is a moderate hike, or explore other options in the Hiking around Ovington guide.

Beyond the well-known sites, Ovington itself holds charm. The peaceful spot near Holy Trinity Church in the heart of Ovington village offers a reflective experience. The Hagg Bank Bridge (also known as Points Bridge or Half-Moon Bridge) near Wylam, though not directly in Ovington, is a significant Grade II* listed pedestrian bridge with an innovative design that inspired later structures like the Tyne Bridge. It's now a walkway and cycle path, perfect for a unique stroll.

The Whorlton Suspension Bridge offers fantastic views of the River Tees. Similarly, the Winston Bridge provides really nice views over the Tees, making it a great spot to stop and enjoy the landscape.

Yes, the Bowes Museum is an art museum of national importance located on the outskirts of Barnard Castle, offering a rich cultural experience. Additionally, while not in Ovington itself, the proximity to Corbridge allows access to Roman forts, providing a glimpse into over 2000 years of history. George Stephenson's Birthplace in Wylam, a National Trust property, is another significant cultural site, showcasing the early life of the pioneering railway engineer.

Visitors frequently appreciate the historical significance and engineering marvels of the bridges, such as the Whorlton Suspension Bridge and Winston Bridge, often highlighting the fantastic views they offer. The Bowes Museum is praised for its interesting exhibits, fantastic backstory, and family-friendly activities. The welcoming atmosphere of places like the Eppleby Village Shop & Tea Room is also a highlight for many, especially cyclists.

Yes, the Eppleby Village Shop & Tea Room is a very friendly place to stop, offering snacks, cakes, and drinks. It's particularly welcoming to cyclists. The Bowes Museum also has a nice cafe and restaurant if you fancy a bite to eat while visiting.

Gravel biking is a great way to explore the area. You can find routes like the 'Welcome to Richmondshire – The Stang loop from Newsham' or the 'Cotherstone Castle – Tees Railway Path loop from Barnard Castle'. For a comprehensive list of routes and their difficulties, refer to the Gravel biking around Ovington guide.

Absolutely. The Hagg Bank Bridge, near Wylam, is a significant Grade II* listed pedestrian bridge that was originally a railway bridge built in 1876. Its design by W.G. Laws, featuring a 73-meter single rib arch, was innovative and influenced later iconic structures. After its railway use, it reopened as a walkway and cycle path, making it a fascinating piece of engineering history to visit.