Bowlees Picnic Area

There are four small waterfalls and a riverside footpath leading to Summerhill Force and Gibson’s Cave; named after a 16th century outlaw who lived behind the waterfall to stay hidden from the law. There are plenty of places to sit in quiet contemplation surrounded by the sound of cascading water. Look for the white breast of the dipper bobbing in and out of the water searching for food or the buzzard soaring above your head.
The old limestone quarry contains many limestone-loving wildflowers, including seven species of orchids, knapweed and wild thyme. These plants attract butterflies and other insects, which are prey for magnificent dragonflies.
An attractive section of the Pennine Way – following the River Tees between Middleton-in-Teesdale and Cauldron Snout – can be reached by crossing the Wynch Bridge. Just past the Wynch Bridge is Low Force, a wonderful series of waterfalls. They are just 15 minutes walk away (0.4 miles) from Bowlees.
One of the ultimate reasons for people coming to Bowlees picnic area is because it is close to the spectacular High Force waterfall. This is the largest waterfall in England, dropping an astonishing 21 metres and it can be reached within an hour on foot (2 miles).