Skittle Bank and River Tees via Tees Railway Path

Starting near County Durham, England, the Skittle Bank and River Tees via Tees Railway Path is a delightful 10 km (6.2 miles) loop trail with an elevation gain of approximately 100 meters (328 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a blend of historical intrigue, natural beauty, and diverse wildlife, making it a rewarding experience for hikers of various skill levels.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to the nearest known address: Barnard Castle, County Durham, DL12 8PH. For those using public transport, Barnard Castle is well-served by buses from major cities like Durham and Newcastle. From Barnard Castle, it's a short walk to the trailhead.### Trail Overview The trail begins near the historic town of Barnard Castle, known for its medieval fortress and charming market town atmosphere. As you set off, you'll follow the Tees Railway Path, a disused railway line that has been converted into a scenic walking route. This section is relatively flat and easy, making it a good warm-up for the more varied terrain ahead.### Key Landmarks and Points of Interest - Barnard Castle: Approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) from the start, you'll pass by the ruins of Barnard Castle. This 12th-century fortress offers a glimpse into the region's medieval past and is worth a quick detour. - River Tees: Around 3 km (1.9 miles) into the hike, you'll reach the River Tees. The riverbanks are lush and teeming with wildlife, including kingfishers and otters. This is a great spot for a short break and some bird-watching. - Skittle Bank: At about the 5 km (3.1 miles) mark, you'll encounter Skittle Bank. This area offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular spot for photography. - Tees Railway Path: The return leg of the loop brings you back onto the Tees Railway Path. This section is slightly uphill but manageable, with a gentle elevation gain of around 50 meters (164 feet) over 2 km (1.2 miles).### Nature and Wildlife The trail is rich in biodiversity. Keep an eye out for red squirrels, deer, and a variety of bird species. The River Tees is particularly vibrant, with its clear waters attracting a range of aquatic life. The flora is equally impressive, especially in spring and summer when wildflowers are in full bloom.### Historical Significance The Tees Railway Path is a nod to the region's industrial past. Originally part of the Tees Valley Railway, this line was crucial for transporting goods during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The railway was decommissioned in the mid-20th century and has since been repurposed as a walking and cycling path, preserving a piece of local history.### Navigation For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. This will ensure you stay on track and can easily find points of interest along the way.### Final Stretch As you near the end of the loop, you'll return to Barnard Castle. This is a great opportunity to explore the town further, perhaps visiting the Bowes Museum or enjoying a meal at one of the local pubs.This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and moderate physical challenge, making it an excellent choice for a day hike.