4.6
(419)
2,150
hikers
9
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Cotherstone are set within the North Pennines National Landscape, offering diverse terrain for outdoor activities. The region is characterized by scenic riverside paths along the River Tees and its tributaries, tranquil reservoir circuits including Hury, Balderhead, and Blackton, and expansive open meadows. Beyond these, the landscape features rolling hills, wooded areas, and higher moorland ridges, providing varied elevation and views. This area provides a range of hiking experiences, from gentle riverside strolls to more challenging…
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.8
(35)
204
hikers
14.5km
03:51
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(22)
96
hikers
10.0km
02:46
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(4)
19
hikers
4.22km
01:07
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(11)
45
hikers
8.18km
02:11
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
7
hikers
9.78km
02:34
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The stone Bridge over the River Tees connects the town of Barnard Castle with Startforth. It dates from the 14th Century and is overlooked by the castle.
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In the case of a "market cross," as we encounter here again, one would have to ask the fundamental question of whether it is actually primarily a small sacred monument—as its cross shape suggests—or whether it is more of a secular object. In times long past, such a cross—unlike classic wayside crosses or field crosses—was only allowed to be erected if the corresponding locality also possessed so-called "market rights"—that is, if it had been granted them by the local ruler.
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Open 10-4 everyday except Tuesday. Great coffee and cake, bacon/sausage butties. Enough bike parking for a group ride, plus a maintenance station with pump and tools. Walkers, runners, kayakers and dogs all welcome!
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Fantastic place to stop for lunch, or coffee and cake. Safe bike-parking round the back. Open 10-4 every day (closed Tuesdays).
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Part of pleasant walk back to the town from the river
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prepare to stop frequently to open gates
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A market was established below the castle in the 13th-c. The impressive octagonal stone pavilion of the Market Cross was built in 1747. The arcade surrounding its base once sheltered market traders and the upper floor served as a lockup, town hall and a courtroom.
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There are 9 dedicated hiking trails around Cotherstone that are easily accessible from bus stations, allowing for car-free adventures. These routes have been explored by over 2,000 visitors.
Hikes accessible from Cotherstone's bus stations offer a diverse range of landscapes. You can expect scenic riverside paths along the River Tees, tranquil reservoir circuits such as those near Hury, Balderhead, and Blackton, as well as rolling hills and open meadows characteristic of the North Pennines National Landscape.
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for families. An excellent option is the Fox and Hounds Pub – The Old Chapel Café loop from Cotherstone, which is just over 4 km and features minimal elevation change, making it suitable for a relaxed outing.
Absolutely. Many of the bus-accessible trails around Cotherstone are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without needing to retrace your steps. For example, the moderate Fox and Hounds Pub – River Tees Crossing loop from Cotherstone offers a scenic circular journey.
Several bus-accessible hikes offer glimpses into the region's history. You can explore areas near the former railway line, which now serves as a popular right of way. For specific historical attractions, consider visiting Bowes Castle Ruins or Egglestone Abbey Ruins, which are accessible from some of the longer routes.
Yes, many routes highlight the area's beautiful water features. The River Tees is central to many walks, and you can also find trails around the local reservoirs. The Fox and Hounds Pub – Matthews Meadow Pond loop from Cotherstone is a moderate option that includes a pond, while other routes offer views of Blackton Reservoir or Grassholme Reservoir.
The bus station hiking trails around Cotherstone are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from nearly 400 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse scenery, well-maintained paths, and the convenience of starting directly from public transport stops.
For those seeking a longer challenge, the Barnard Castle Market Cross – Barnard Castle ruins loop from Cotherstone is a moderate 14.6 km route that offers a more extensive exploration of the area, including historical sites and varied terrain.
Yes, Cotherstone provides direct access to sections of the Teesdale Way, a significant public right of way. Many bus-accessible routes will connect with or run alongside parts of this trail, allowing you to experience the wider Teesdale landscape.
Cotherstone's bus-accessible trails can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, summer offers pleasant temperatures for riverside walks, autumn showcases stunning foliage, and even winter can be beautiful with crisp air and potential snow, especially around the reservoirs. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, the route of the former railway line near Cotherstone has been converted into a popular public right of way. The Fox and Hounds Pub – Tees Railway Path loop from Cotherstone is a moderate 8 km hike that incorporates this historic path, offering a relatively flat and easy-to-navigate trail.


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