Discover Teesdale: Villages, Moors & Reservoirs

5 hours

Challenging

A friendly quietly challenging guided gravel ride through beautiful Teesdale villages, open moorland and reservoir views.

We start at the Old Chapel, Cotherstone, and head out on the road through the village to join the old Tees railway path and some grassy bridleways. At Lartington we will skim the edge of the Hall and join the road to head off to Cotherstone Moor, a SSSI. We make our way across the moor (be prepared for a bit of bumpy, boggy ground) and head towards Hury Reservoir. We will follow a gravel track and some grassy bridleways before a brief stretch of tarmac before we head back off road, dropping into Romaldkirk and returning to Cotherstone on the old Tees Valley railway path. Expect a real mix of Teesdale riding: quiet lanes, crunchy gravel, grassy bits, the odd muddy puddle, open views and a few bumpy sections. There are a couple of places where walking your bike is the sensible option, and that is completely normal on this ride.

Key stats 

Distance Approx 40 km | Climbing ~500 m | Ride Time approx 5 hours

Surfaces | Quiet lanes, gravel tracks, grassy bridleway, bumpy moors, old railway path, gates, puddles and a couple of short push sections. There are some steps to the old railway line where we will need to push our bikes.

~ 60% Road 40% 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 25 km with mostly gentle climbs but a few steep sections.
  • 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.