The best walks and hikes in The Stang Forest
4.7
(593)
3,789
hikers
142
hikes
Hiking in The Stang Forest offers diverse landscapes across County Durham and the North Yorkshire border. The region features extensive pine forests, open moorland, and fells, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. Hikers can expect routes through dense woodlands, alongside historical elements, and up to higher elevations offering panoramic views. The Stang Forest is situated on the slopes of fells overlooking the Stainmore Gap and Tees Valley.
Best hiking trails in The Stang Forest
- The most popular hiking route is…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
24.5km
06:47
440m
440m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
3.58km
00:57
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
hikers
22.0km
06:02
360m
360m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
13.6km
03:38
160m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
Those traveling north on the Pennine Way and wanting to spend the night (or stop by) in Bowes can switch here to the PW's alternative route (Bowes Loop). The two routes then rejoin shortly before the bridge over the River Balder.
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Arndale Hill is a summit (516m) on Hope Moor with an interesting cairn on it. It's going to be windy here, in all likelihood! To the north, you have The Stang (forest), and the extensive 360-degree views from up here of the moors, North Pennines (north) and towards Arkengarthdale (south) enrich the soul.
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It's worth walking up to Elsey Crag, which is a band of rock on Faggergill Moor, precisely on the border between Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines. The views are spectacular - the surrounding space is amazing! Whether looking to the north (Bowes), to the east (The Stang forest) or to the south (Arkengarthdale), you will be richly rewarded for making your legs do what they have been designed to do: walk.
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Excellent views from this not-too-high and not-too-difficult to reach Citron Seat (446m) on Gilmonby Moor. From here, you will see all the way to Bowes and Barnard Castle (on a clear day, of course), and you should be able to make out Mickle Fell (north of Kirkby Stephen) in the far distance on the horizon where the North Pennines start.
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High Eskeleth seems to be a farmhouse here, but the views from the minor road from next to the signposts for walkers here - down over Arkengarthdale, with Langthwaite to the south-east - are quite simply tremendous. Worth stopping here and admiring this amazing area.
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A few lone houses sit here in this peaceful land. Behind the house is Faggergill Moor (north) and Hoove, also a moor (east), and the end of the cultivated land.
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Whaw Bridge is a beautiful stone bridge over Arkle Beck, which can become quite raging after rain or in spate. Arkle Beck rises near Tan Hill Inn on the moorlands before flowing down here; it is a tributary of the River Swale.
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These impressive Bowes Castle ruins are free to visit. Although not much of the fort is left standing, you can visit the interior of the castle and imagine yourself back in time. The current castle dates from 1187 but was built on what was once the foundations of a Roman fortification. For more information visit: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/bowes-castle/history/
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in The Stang Forest?
The Stang Forest offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 140 routes recorded on komoot. These trails range in difficulty and length, catering to different preferences and fitness levels.
Are there options for different hiking abilities in The Stang Forest?
Yes, The Stang Forest provides trails for all skill levels. You can find easy paths, such as the Bowes Castle Ruins – Greta River loop from Bowes, as well as more challenging routes like the Citron Seat and Arndale Hill loop from Murker Hill, which offers significant elevation gains.
What natural features and viewpoints can I expect to see while hiking in The Stang Forest?
Hikers in The Stang Forest will encounter diverse landscapes, including extensive pine forests and open moorland, particularly towards Barningham Moor. Higher elevations like Arndale Hill and Eel Hill provide expansive 360-degree panoramic views of the moors, the North Pennines, and the Tees Valley.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to explore on the trails?
Yes, several routes incorporate historical elements. For instance, the Bowes Castle Ruins – Greta River loop from Bowes includes the historical Bowes Castle Ruins. You might also find remains of old limekilns along byways on Barningham Moor.
Is parking available for hikers in The Stang Forest?
Yes, The Stang Forest provides two free car parks for visitors, making access convenient for hikers.
Is The Stang Forest suitable for family hikes?
The Stang Forest offers a range of trails, including easy paths that are suitable for families. The diverse landscapes and wildlife spotting opportunities can make for an engaging outing for all ages. Consider shorter, less challenging routes for younger children.
Can I bring my dog on the trails in The Stang Forest?
The Stang Forest is dog-friendly. However, due to the presence of nesting birds and abundant wildlife, it is recommended to keep dogs under close control, especially during nesting seasons.
What is the best time of year to hike in The Stang Forest?
The Stang Forest offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. The pine forests provide shelter in cooler months, while the open moorland is beautiful in spring and summer. Wildlife, such as deer and various bird species, can be spotted year-round, and mushrooms are abundant in the woodlands during autumn.
Are there any circular walks in The Stang Forest?
Yes, many of the trails in The Stang Forest are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Bowes Castle Ruins – Blackton Reservoir loop from Bowes and the Whaw Bridge and High Eskeleth loop.
What do other hikers enjoy most about The Stang Forest?
The Stang Forest is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 500 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from peaceful pine forests to expansive moorland, and the panoramic views from higher points like Arndale Hill.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in The Stang Forest?
The Stang Forest is rich in wildlife. Hikers frequently spot deer and a variety of bird species, including owls, pheasants, red kites, and lapwings. The woodlands are also home to numerous types of mushrooms, particularly in autumn.
Are there any long-distance hiking options in The Stang Forest?
For those seeking longer adventures, The Stang Forest offers several extended routes. The Citron Seat and Arndale Hill loop from Murker Hill, for example, is over 15 miles (24 km) long and provides a challenging full-day hike with significant elevation changes.
Most popular routes in The Stang Forest
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