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Upper Teesdale

Some fine walks amongst superb scenery! This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the second largest in area, covers some wild and remote landscapes in northern England. The area is dominated by the Pennine hills and includes large areas of undulating heather moors and peat.

  • England

  • 7 nights
  • Half Board
  • Landscape

  • Jun

    Jul

    Sep

Moderate

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Walking grade

Grade 5

This Grade 5 holiday has something of everything – high moors with few paths, paths alongside rivers which undulate and some steep climbs/ descents, which will typically be in mountainous areas. Some of the paths are rough and steep, so a steady foot and a good head for heights is needed.

Walks average - Distance: 10 miles; Ascent/Descent  300m; Walking Time: Medium Days.

Please ensure to read the below 'Proposed Itinerary' for a more accurate depiction of the daily walks.

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Classic Collection

Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • High Force – at 21m high probably the most spectacular waterfall in England.
  • Low Force - Its baby brother!
  • Cauldron Snout. Reputedly the longest waterfall in England.
  • Teesdale, magical scenery away from the Lake District crowds.
  • The Pennine Way! It passes close by the hotel. We will walk a few sections.

Nestled to the north of the Yorkshire Dales and with the Lake District gracing its western horizon, Upper Teesdale unveils breathtaking landscapes without the usual throngs of visitors. Middleton, a former Quaker mining town, serves as the ideal base for exploring this untouched gem. The town is cocooned by picturesque countryside and echoes of its mining heritage.

Four of our walks embark right from the doorstep of our hotel. Without the need to wait for buses, we have more time to relish the best of our walking excursions. One day, we'll arrange transport to Langdon Beck for a walk along the Pennine Way, leading to the awe-inspiring Cauldron Snout waterfall and the serene Cow Green Reservoir. A mid-week free day provides the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate your legs and explore the local surroundings. If you arrive via public transport, Barnard Castle is easily accessible by bus.

Our accommodation, the Teesdale Hotel, centrally located in Middleton, is a beloved haven for walkers. The hotel's bar pulsates with the vibrant heartbeat of the local community. Join us for an unforgettable adventure in the unspoiled beauty of Upper Teesdale.


  • En suite three-star hotel accommodation on a half board basis
  • All local transport required for the itinerary by private coach
  • Services of a Classic Tour Leader
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Lunches
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

71287

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival day

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Independent arrival at the hotel in the late afternoon (check in is from 3pm). There may be an orientation walk around Middleton, so please check with the reception staff on arrival. If not, plan to meet your leader in the bar before dinner (at approximately 6.30pm). 

Day 2

Grassholme Reservoir

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    4.5 hours

  • Distance

    9.3 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    270m

Your first walk day will leave Middleton on the old railway line and cross the Lunesdale Viaduct. You will climb gently up to Grassholme Reservoir and walk along its southern edge. Then comes a short section of the Pennine Way going south before you cross under the Selset Dam and re-join the Pennine Way going north back to Middleton, enjoying fabulous views up the dale.

Day 3

Monks Moor, Great Eggles Hope & Coldberry Mines

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    4.5 hours

  • Distance

    10 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    570m

Leaving Middleton there is a climb to Snaisgill and over the pathless Monks Moor to the old mine workings at Great Eggles Hope. Continue the explorations of Teesdale’s mining heritage by crossing to ridge to Hudeshope Beck and Coldberry Mine before returning to Middleton along Hudeshope Beck.

Day 4

Eggleston and Romaldkirk

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    4.5 hours

  • Distance

    10 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    200m

Today you'll explore a section of the Teesdale Way from Middleton to the very pretty village of Romaldkirk with its large village green. The return will be along the old Barnard Castle to Middleton railway line.

Day 5

Free Day

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

This is planned as a free day. There are plenty of walking options to consider and Barnard Castle can easily be visited by public bus. This historic town makes for a pleasant day out!

Day 6

Cauldron Snout and Cow Green Reservoir

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    10 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    200m

Private transport will be provided today to get up to Langdon Beck and from here to join the River Tees. You will follow the Pennine Way through the narrow valley of Holmwath to Cauldron Snout and climb up beside the impressive waterfall to Cow Green Reservoir. From here take a circular route back to Langdon Beck for the private transport back to the hotel.

Day 7

Harter Fell, Low Force and High Force

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    13 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    400m

The final walk involves following the Pennine Way south out of Middleton towards Rakes Gill and cross Crossthwaite Common to Holwick Scars. Descend to the River Tees and follow it upstream to the highest waterfall in England, High Force. You can then retrace your steps to Low Force and follow the Tees as it meanders all the way to Middleton.

Day 8

Departure day

Meals

Breakfast

Independent departure after breakfast. Check out of the hotel is by 10.30am. 

We hope you have enjoyed your holiday and we look forward to welcoming you on another soon.

Departure dates for your selected tour

8th Jun 2024 - 15th Jun 2024 (7 Nights)

27th Jul 2024 - 3rd Aug 2024 (7 Nights)

14th Sep 2024 - 21st Sep 2024 (7 Nights)

Travel Details

Transport to and from the trailheads when necessary (only on one day) is included.

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

Teesdale Hotel

Set in the village of Middleton-in-Teesdale; on the edge of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the stone-built Teesdale Hotel is a former coaching inn dating from the 18th century. The hotel is located only 5 miles from High Force waterfall and 10 miles from Barnard Castle.

Featuring en-suite bathrooms, the pleasant bedrooms include TV and tea & coffee making facilities. The rooms are perhaps dated (some may say 70s style) but they offer comfortable accommodation after an energetic day on the hills. The hotel is uniquely located for us to be able to enjoy our walks from the front door.  

There's a classic wood-panelled restaurant, a relaxed bar and a patio area. All breakfasts and evening meals are taken in the hotel's restaurant where all food is cooked on the premises, using fresh and seasonal ingredients. The emphasis is on quality local produce, carefully and simply prepared and presented without fuss. 

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

This Grade 5 holiday has something of everything – high moors with few paths, paths alongside rivers which undulate and some steep climbs/ descents, which will typically be in mountainous areas. Some of the paths are rough and steep, so a steady foot and a good head for heights is needed.

Walks average - Distance: 10 miles; Ascent/Descent  300m; Walking Time: Medium Days.

Please ensure to read the below 'Proposed Itinerary' for a more accurate depiction of the daily walks.

Walks & Excursions

Local Transport Costs

In the holiday cost, we've included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

When budgeting for your holiday, you will need to consider drinks, non-included entrance fees, optional excursions you may choose to participate in locally and any souvenirs or additional services such as laundry. 

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leader's Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Your Travel Details

To reach Middleton;

Directions form the A1 (12 miles)

Leave the A1 at Scotch Corner and follow the A66 towards Bernard Castle. From Bernard Castle follow the B2677 to Middleton. The hotel is in the centre of the town and there is free parking available to all guests.

Public transport: the nearest mainline railway station to Middleton is in Darlington. There are buses from Darlington to Bernard Castle and then up to Middleton 

You may also wish to look at the following website for advice on the best way to travel to the accommodation: www.rome2rio.com 

Route planning to and from Middleton. 

The AA and RAC both offer free and detailed on-line route planning facilities on their websites which may help you find our hotels. Details can be found at: www.theaa.co.uk and www.rac.co.uk 

Meeting your tour leader and fellow walkers:

Please check the time of dinner (approximately 7pm) on arrival at the hotel and aim to be in the hotel lounge half an hour before dinner for an introduction to your tour leader, and an outline of the planned programme for your holiday.


Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Meals

Accommodation is on a half board basis with buffet breakfasts and dinners taken at the hotel. Picnic lunches are not included. 

All of the food is cooked on the premises using fresh, seasonal, good quality locally sourced ingredients. The emphasis is on quality local produce, carefully and simply prepared and presented. The meat comes from a butcher in Middleton, trout is locally caught and fruit and vegetables are seasonal and locally sourced. The hotel has been awarded the "Local Produce Champion & Quality Assured" award three years in succession by Taste Durham - a local Tourist Board initiative.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Swimwear (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Holiday booking confirmation document
  • Travel insurance details (if applicable)
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Water To Go

Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.

Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.

As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWW15 during your order.                        

Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday departing after November 1, 2023, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Weather

Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for United Kingdom

No compulsory immunisations are required for holidays in the UK although you should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended for life in Britain. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.


Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The primary focus of our Trust's financial support is directed towards Britain's premier walking charity, The Ramblers. They play a crucial role in advocating the benefits and significance of walking to the British public. Additionally, our Trust invites applications for small grants from local organizations in the UK that require support for walking-oriented activities. This encompasses initiatives such as establishing footpaths and bridleways, funding for the reconstruction of bridges and refurbishing huts, and bursary funding for organisations that support individuals to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors..

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Heart and Sole

We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.

Staying In Touch

Mobile Phones

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or make an effort to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.

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