Walk 6 miles for 60 years of the Pennine Way

The Pennine Way celebrates its 60th anniversary on 24 April 2025. The trail, which stretches for 268 miles across England’s wild northern uplands, was the first National Trail in England and is one of the UK’s most famous long-distance walks. Showcasing some of the UK’s most stunning scenery, it cuts through the heart of the Durham Dales and North Pennines National Landscape. Entering the county in the Sleightholme Moors and departing just before Dufton near Cow Green Reservoir, the Durham stretch of the Pennine Way takes in some of the county’s most spectacular scenery and landmarks, including the mighty High Force Waterfall

The Pennine Way cuts through the heart of the Durham Dales and North Pennines National Landscape showcasing some of the most spectacular landscapes across the UK, including one of the most iconic landmarks of the trail High Force Waterfall. The Pennine Way stretches for 268 miles across England’s wild northern uplands, and the trail enters Durham’s boarders in the Sleighholme moors and then departs the county just before Dufton, near Cow Green Resevoir, the Durham stretch of the Pennine Way takes in some of the county’s most spectacular scenery and landmarks, including the mighty High Force Waterfall.

Ahead of the anniversary we recently took on the challenge of walking 6 miles for 60 years of the Pennine Way, joining a Durham County Council guided walk to experience a snapshot of what this incredible trail has to offer. The route we walked starts in the market town of Middleton-in-Teesdale, and is one of many options available.

The route we walked, starts in the market town of Middleton-in-Teesdale and joins the Pennine Way in a Northwest direction towards Holwick following the River Tees, via Low Force then continuing onto the spectacular High Force. The route proceeds past Homestead and then eventually finishes at Pasture Foot with the Stone Quarry on the opposite side of the Riverbank.

Starting Point

Our journey started in the market town of Middleton-in-Teesdale, near to the fountain in the main square. The fountain was built in 1877 to honour Robert Walton Bainbridge, superintendent of the London Lead Mining Company.  We crossed the bridge to join the Pennine Way, and with the breathtaking North Pennines in the distance we knew we were in for a treat.

Mile 1

We reached the first marker point of the route and were welcomed with incredible views across the North Pennines and Cross Fell mountain - the highest mountain in the North Pennines National Landscape and the highest point in England outside the Lake District. The footbridges, streams and wildlife we encountered along the way were a fantastic introduction to our day ahead.

Mile 2

After a gradual climb we reached Park End Wood, which revealed wonderful views back towards Middleton-in-Teesdale and the surrounding area. This section allowed us to experience the River Tees in all its glory, as we followed its twists and turns.

Mile 3

After following the river we reached our half-way point at Holwick Quarry, which was a great place to stop for a break and take in the beauty of the Durham Dales. Continuing along the well-signposted trail, we knew we were in for a treat with what lay ahead.

Mile 4

Low Force Waterfall was a standout location on our trail taster walk. This dramatic Durham landmark has featured on the big screen and attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is easy to see why this area is an internationally recognised landscape, and we called into Bowlees Visitor Centre, a short stroll from Low Fore, to find out more about the North Pennines and enjoy a much needed drink.

Mile 5

After taking in the sights we continued upstream towards the mighty High Force Waterfall, where we could hear its roar long before it came into view. The steep bank towards High Force Waterfall was definitely worth it, as we were rewarded with the sight (and sound!) of a true natural wonder - High Force. The 21-metre-high waterfall is one of the most spectacular and iconic waterfalls in the UK, and a great spot to take some tranquil time out, and take some great photos of course!  

Mile 6

The end is in sight! After departing High Force we continued to follow the River Tees upstream, eventually reaching the stone quarry which marked the end point of our walk. The Pennine Way continues towards the scenic Cauldron Snout Reservoir, but we opted to enjoy a well-earned lunch at High Force Hotel before making our way back to Middleton-in Teesdale. 

We hope our 6 Miles for 60 Years of the Pennine Way gives you an insight into this incredible national trail, inspires you to find out more and plan your own adventure in the Durham Dales and North Pennines National Landscape.

More detailed route information can be found on the National Trail website and our Pennine Way page.

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