The ruins of the 12th century Egglestone Abbey beside the River Tees about 1.5 miles south-east from Barnard Castle. It makes for one of the best walks in this area of County Durham, offering a bit of everything – stunning views, history, woodlands, waterfalls and a good pub or cafe stop! 

An excellent walk near Barnard Castle to Egglestone Abbey

If you’re searching for a walk near Barnard Castle that blends riverside scenery, peaceful woodland, and a touch of history, this circular route to Egglestone Abbey is a perfect choice. This route is a popular choice but I have modified it a little and I don’t start in Barnard Castle – as I think it’s good to visit Barnard Castle at the half way point, The modified walk route I like to do takes in some nice woodland, The River Tees, a stop half way around at Barnard Castle for a drink and then Egglestone Abbey serves as a fitting climax.

This is an ideal half-day walk, suitable for families, dog walkers, and anyone looking to escape into the Durham countryside.

Barnard Castle Walk and Egglestone Abbey Map Route

I like to do this circular route anti-clockwise and start from just near Egglestone Abbey Bridge, you can also start from Egglestone Abbey car park itself, or even adapt it to start from Barnard Castle if that suits.

It’s worth viewing the OS Maps route by clicking the button above to familairise yourself with it in more detail – or you can even download the route to your phone if you subscribe to OS Maps itself via the link below.

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Step-by-Step BARNARD CASTLE & EGGLESTONE ABBEY WALKING Route

1. Start at EGGLESTON ABBEY BRIDGE

I like to start quite near Egglestone Abbey Bridge at a free car parking spot (which means you get to explore Egglestone Abbey itself right at the end of the walk) After 20m or so you cross Egglestone Abbey Bridge and the walk through nice woodland next to the River Tees.

This is where I like to start this walk – at the roadside pull in just before you get to Egglestone Abbey. There is only space for 3/4 cars – so if it’s full – you can head up to Egglestone Abbey (It’s very close – follow the road pictured and park in the free car park). However it is a nice surprise  I think to only see Egglestone Abbey at the end of the walk (especially if you haven’t done this walk before). Anyhow at the start of the walk you’ll want to walk away from the parked cars and away from Egglestone Abbey towards Egglestone Abbey Bridge which you may well have driven over to get here!

After a few mins you are soon at Egglestone Abbey Bridge – cross the bridge (it’s a single lane though and fairly busy so be careful of approaching cars) Be sure to look over to get your first glimpse of the River Tees

Straight after Egglestone Bridge – keep at eye out for the Teesdale Way footpath on your left 

You initially walk through some nice woodland and can hear the cascading River Tees on your left which you are now tracking upstream

2. HEAD UPSTREAM TO Barnard Castle

You’ll head upstream on the northern flank of the River Tees on the Teesdale Way Footpath which is easy to follow through peaceful woodland and grassy fields and riverside paths.

Sections of the Teesdale Way footpath open out for impressive views of the River Tees, the footpath is easy to follow.

As the footpath starts to head away from the River Tees, you do catch a glimpse of the footbridge which we will eventualy use to cross the River Tees.

2. HEAD INTO Barnard Castle

The route I like to take enters into Barnard Castle town, where you can have an explore, grab some food or a drink at one of the many pubs or cafes. 

You don have the option of not going into Barnard Castle itself – and just miss it out and head over the foot bridge – but I really recomend the detour to refuel and see the Castle

Head up the high street which is lined with shops, cafes and pubs – plenty of places to grab some food and drink 

If you are unsure of what pub to go for to grab a drink or even food – I can recommend the Golden Lion, a very traditional British Pub which has a little beer garden out the back also. Nearby the Chocolate Fayre shop & coffee lounge has some nice chocolate treats and fine coffee, it too has a secret garden out the back if you want to soak up some rays.

3. EXPLORE THE CASTLE IN BARNARD CASTLE

Another reason I like the detour into the town is you can see the Castle and the path lets you skirt around the ruins of Barnard Castle — and if you have time you can pay to go inside to see the castle ruins. However just sticking your head in the entrance before you come to the ticket shop would be enough for most.

There isn’t a great deal to see inside Barnard Castle – it largely ruins – so pop your head in the door to see it then crack on with your walk around the edge of the Castle.

3. ReTURN FROM BARNARD CASTLE TO EGGLESTONE ABBEY

After you’ve been in the town and around the castle, head south on the roadside path and and make your way down to the River Tees over the foot bridge. From here, you’ll pick up the riverside path heading east. This stretch is flat and peaceful, with the River Tees once more flowing beside you with the occasional cascading falls and birdsong filling the air.

You’ll pass under trees and alongside open stretches where you can enjoy views of the surrounding countryside—perfect for easing into the walk.

Passing over the River Tees on the footbrdge is another highlight of the walk, with excellent views up and down stream!

The footpath which tracks the Tees occasionally opens up with nice Riverside views

The riverside path will lead you towards River View Holiday Park – just be mindful here of not walking through the caravan park as there is no pathway through it – just take a right on the exit road up hill as soon as you enter the Holiday Park as you will have to skirt around it. You will at this point get fine views of Bowes Museum though on the other side of the valley!

When you head uphill on the exit road out of River View Holiday park – look out for this gate on your left which you go through to get back on the footpath

4. The last leg to Egglestone Abbey

The last leg involves walking through grassy fields, then on a minor road before you then approach Egglestone Abbey, where the landscape opens up and the ruins begin to reveal themselves across the fields—a striking sight that feels almost untouched by time. 

You only walk on the quiet road for 300m or so

After walking over Bow Bridge on the road- swing a hard right, throuh the gate pictured above – this is the best way to approach Egglestone Abbey. Pay close attention to the map and follow the grassy path that tracks the stream west.

After 200m or so – be sure to take a left up the grassy hill so you end up approaching the cottage pictured below.

You’ll now approach Egglestone Abbey from the west where the impressive ruins open out infront of you across the fields. It’s well worth taking the time to explore the ruins of Egglestone Abbey and it makes for a good picnic pit stop at the end of your walk.

ABOUT Egglestone Abbey

Egglestone Abbey is one of County Durham’s hidden gems. Managed by English Heritage, the abbey dates back to the late 12th century and was home to Premonstratensian canons—often known as the “White Canons” due to their distinctive robes.

Key Facts About Egglestone Abbey:

• Founded around 1190, making it over 800 years old
• Built in a remote riverside location for peace and reflection
• Fell into decline after the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century
• Now stands as a well-preserved ruin, with impressive stone arches and walls still intact

Walking among the ruins, you can clearly see the layout of the church and cloister. It’s easy to imagine the daily life of the monks who once lived here, surrounded by the quiet of the Tees Valley.

By leaving Egglestone Abbey for the very end of your walk, you can take as much time as you to have a wander around, and if the weather is nice it makes for a great picnic stop. From here, if you parked at the small roadside spot mentioned at the very beginning – it’s a 5 min walk back to the car along the road.

Why This is One of the Best Walks Near Barnard Castle

This route stands out as a top walk near Barnard Castle for several reasons:

• Variety of scenery – for a walk of only 3.9 miles – the scenery is impressive – riverside, woodland, open countryside, a historic market town, a castle & Abbey ruins!
• Historic interest – explore Barnard Castle and the stunning ruins of Egglestone Abbey
• Accessible distance – manageable for most fitness levels and suitable for dogs too
• Peaceful atmosphere – despite it’s proximity to the busy market town of Barnard Castle it’s a fairly quiet walking route

Tips for the Walk

• Footwear: Wear decent walking shoes—paths can be muddy after rain
• Parking: A few spots available on the roadside approaching Egglestone Abbey – or in the Egglestone Abbey free car park (You can even start this circular walk in Barnard Castle town centre if you like where there is also ample parking) 
• Dogs: Great dog walk, but keep them under control near livestock
• Picnic spot: The abbey grounds are perfect for a scenic break

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a rewarding and scenic walk near Barnard Castle, this anti-clockwise circular route to Egglestone Abbey ticks all the boxes. It’s a walk that balances natural beauty with a deep sense of history—one where every step feels connected to the past.

Whether you’re a local or visiting the area, it’s a route that’s well worth adding to your list.