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Discover Teesdale: Barnard Castle, River Tees, Reservoir and Dale Villages

5 hours

Challenging

A quietly challenging 40km guided gravel ride from Barnard Castle, passing the Bowes Museum and following the River Tees through Cotherstone to Cotherstone Moor, Hury Reservoir and Romaldkirk Moor.

A quietly challenging guided gravel ride, starting in Barnard Castle, visiting the stunning Bowes Museum, before travelling riverside along the River Tees to Cotherstone Moor, Hury reservoir and Romaldkirk Moor. We will visit the beautiful dale villages of Romaldkirk and Cotherstone before heading back to Barnard Castle. This is a social, supported, challenging gravel ride- no racing, no pressure, and no one gets left behind.

Key stats 

Distance Approx. 40 km (25miles) | Climbing 625m | Ride Time approx 5 hours | 

Surfaces | Quiet lanes, gravel tracks, grassy bridleway, bumpy moorland bridleways, old railway path, gates, puddles and a couple of short push sections. There are steps to the old railway line where we will need to push our bikes and we will need to carry the bikes up a couple of steps at the bridge at Barnard Castle. Alternative routes can be provided.

50% Road 50% Gravel/Other 

Is this ride right for you?
  • You enjoy a relaxed, social pace rather than a fast group ride.
  • You have your own bike, suitable for the conditions, in good working order.
  • You are comfortable riding for around 40 km with a few  climbs (see elevation).
  • You are happy on mixed surfaces, including moorland, and do not mind a little mud or uneven ground.
  • You are comfortable getting on and off your bike for gates and short push sections.
  • You would like support, clear guidance and a welcoming group atmosphere.
What's included?

    • A warm welcome, rider sign-in and a quick chat about the plan for the day.
    • A short pre-ride bike and kit check. Please arrive with your bike ready to ride.
    • A simple skills warm-up / confidence check before we head off.
    • Clear group riding guidance: how we ride together, where we regroup and what to do if you need anything.
    • A carefully planned circular bike ride taking in the  hidden gems and mixed terrain on offer in Teesdale.
    • Regular check-ins, short pauses for views, snacks and photos, and support on tricky bits.
    • Small route changes if weather, ground conditions or the group need it.
    Exclusions
      Bikes and Helmets are not provided. Please bring your own and check it before arrival.

      Please check your bike and helmet before you come (see T&Cs). 

      A simple M-check  helps spot obvious issues. Your bike should have two working brakes, pumped tyres and be safe to ride. If you are bringing an e-bike, please arrive with enough battery for the ride.

      Please note
        Weather and route changes

        This route includes exposed sections, so weather matters. If conditions are poor, the route may be adapted, shortened or rescheduled. Please dress for the forecast, but also bring an extra layer because conditions can feel colder and windier once we are out on the moor.

        What to bring
          • A suitable bike in good working order - gravel bike, mountain bike, hybrid or suitable e-bike.
          • A well-fitting helmet. Pedal Teesdale asks all riders to wear one on guided rides.
          • Water and snacks. For a ride of this length, bring enough to drink and a little extra fuel.
          • Weather-appropriate layers. Teesdale can change quickly, especially on open moorland. Gloves and eyewear is a good idea.
          • Spare inner tube for your bike, tyre levers and a pump if you have them.
          • A charged phone and a little money / card.
          • Comfortable shoes with enough grip for short walk sections.
          • A small bag or rucksack to carry your essentials.
          • A spare warm or dry layer for after the ride is a good idea, especially in cooler weather.