60 Years of Adventure: Must-See Sights Along The Pennine Way’s Northern Stretch

We recently teamed up with Emma from Northumberland Adventures, to mark the 60th anniversary of the Pennine Way.

Emma is passionate about sharing her love of the great outdoors, especially across North East England. So, we couldn’t think of a better person to help us celebrate 60 years of England’s First National Trail. We invited Emma to lace up her boots and explore the northern stretch of this iconic trail, zigzagging across the stunning landscapes of Durham and Northumberland.

In this blog, Emma shares her top unmissable sights along the trail, from epic waterfalls and historic castles to hidden gems you won’t want to miss on your next adventure.

Arguably one of the UK’s most famous long distance walks, The Pennine Way spans 268 miles across England, with amazing scenery and the most stunning sights along the way. I really enjoyed exploring the Durham and Northumberland section of the trail and the many hidden gems along the way. Below are my recommendations of must-see Pennine Way sights that I think you’ll love too!

Durham Highlights 

The Bowes Loop 

The Bowes Loop was created to offer walkers an alternative route between Tan Hill and Middleton-in-Teesdale (a stretch where the Pennine Way passes no towns or villages for sixteen miles). This circular detour guides walkers through the historic village of Bowes, home to the impressive Bowes Castle and offers beautiful countryside views. It’s also close to Barnard Castle, making it the perfect spot for a pit stop to explore the town’s independent shops, cafés, and famous fortress. Plus, a great place to stay for those long-distance hikers.

Barnard Castle

A wander down the streets of Barnard Castle towards the River will bring you to the ruins of a mighty stronghold, Barnard Castle. I really enjoyed a wander around this English Heritage site in the spring sunshine a very peaceful location with amazing views the fortress was first built here in the 12th century so a wealth of history to discover. This historic town is definitely one to add to your itinerary. 

The Bowes Museum

This breathtaking museum and gardens is home to outstanding collections of art and fashion there’s a ton of history to discover inside. The vision of John and Joséphine Bowes to share their love of art the museum first opened in 1892, and today holds an extensive collection of art and history within its walls with captivating displays you could easily spend hours exploring. The building itself is absolutely stunning and surrounding gardens are well worth a stop on your journey of discovery.

Blackton Reservoir

Often unofficially known as the halfway point of the full Pennine Way trail, this spot between Blackton and Balderhead Reservoir is a perfect place to pause, recharge, and take in the stunning surroundings.

The viewpoint here at Blackton Reservoir is out of this world, situated within a chain of three reservoirs - Balderhead, Blackton and Hury, making this scenery some of the best I saw on my trip. Utterly tranquil, with nothing but rolling hills, grouse moors and vast water around you, it's a real showstopper. There’s also Hannah's Meadow Nature Reserve on the banks of the reservoir, providing lots of wildlife spotting opportunities. A real marvel of nature and one I highly recommend if you’re walking along the Pennine Way.

Just a little further along the route, Grassholme and Selset Reservoirs are also well worth a visit. Grassholme, in particular, is a haven for nature lovers, with peaceful waterside paths, fantastic birdwatching, and beautiful open views across the moors. It’s also home to Grassholme Observatory, where you can experience incredible dark skies and stargazing sessions if you're staying overnight.

Cauldron Snout Waterfall

This waterfall was one of the most breathtaking of my journey, it's thought to be one of the longest waterfalls in England at 180m. If you're following the trail across the Durham Dales and North Pennines National Landscape, Cauldron Snout is the last section (or first section if you're coming from the north) of the trail in Durham, before it continues into Cumbria.

We parked at Cow Green Reservoir and walked around 2 miles across stunning scenery to reach the waterfall, you arrive at the very top and the sight as you look down is utterly breathtaking. There is a route down the rockside to reach the bottom, and although good walking boots are recommended for this it’s so worth it for the views and seeing the cascade from this viewpoint is a definite highlight of my trip.

High Force Waterfall and Hotel

A true force of nature this spectacular waterfall is a very short walk from the road and nearby car park at High Force Hotel. It's well worth the trip to see this 21 metre cascade with your own eyes. The Pennine Way footpath crosses the southern bank of the River Tees, where you can enjoy elevated views of the waterfall as you pass by, or take the short woodland walk from the car park. High Force was one of the best sights along my journey I could have spent hours just watching the beauty of the waterfall, and one you definitely need to see if you’re passing by. 

High Force Hotel could not be more handily situated for our exploring, with High Force Waterfall itself literally across the road. With Low Force Waterfall only a short walk or drive away, as well as nearby reservoirs it made a great base for our days in the Durham section of the Pennine Way.

The staff were super friendly, and the warm, cosy country aesthetic made it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. With hearty, locally sourced dishes and a stunning seasonal menu packed with flavour, it’s definitely a must-visit, whether you’re refuelling with delicious food and drinks by the fire or settling in for an overnight stay. The comfortable, beautifully styled rooms offer a peaceful retreat, complete with plush beds, thoughtful touches, and countryside views. Ideal for resting weary legs and waking up refreshed and ready to hit the trail again.

Low Force Waterfall

The Pennine Way footpath runs right alongside this wonderful waterfall, which is also easily accessible from the Bowlees Visitor Centre. The River Tees flows over the Whin Sill here, creating the gorgeous cascade you see today. This same rock formation is part of what underpins much of the North Pennines' rugged beauty.

After a very short walk from the visitor centre to the River Tees, we were met with the glorious sight of the waterfall, standing on the side of the rocks watching families enjoying their time here. It's a great picnic spot, or somewhere to just sit and enjoy the sounds of nature.

Whether you’re here for a walk, a bite to eat, or to learn more about this incredible area, Bowlees is the ideal place to begin your journey! Bowlees is the gateway to North Pennines National Landscape, helping visitors discover everything the surrounding has to offer. One of the UK’s geological treasures, its also designated a UNESCO Global Geopark because of its outstanding earth heritage.

The North Pennines team also helps care for the North Pennines section of the Pennine Way, working closely with the National Trails Partnership and Durham County Council. They’re supported by passionate local volunteers, known as Pennine Way Champions, who adopt stretches of the 77-mile route throughout the North Pennines, helping to keep the trail in great shape, beautiful, and accessible for everyone.

Northumberland Highlights 

Hareshaw Linn

Situated in the gorgeous Northumberland village of Bellingham you’ll find a stunning walk through the forest here to one of the most amazing waterfall sights, along the 3 mile walk you’ll discover smaller waterfall sights and trickling streams, fairytale landscapes and wildlife. Once the waterfall comes into view you can’t help but stand and admire its beauty, the sunlight reflected off the water causing a rainbow to appear across the cascade a truly magical moment we loved. 

Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsmans Rest

Tucked away in the cutest Northumberland village you’ll find the Kirkstyle Inn a welcome stop on your journey, the views from here are unreal. With a cosy feel alongside a touch of luxury aesthetic as you open the door you know you’re in for a treat. I stayed here overnight during the Northumberland leg of my journey and loved it. Each bedroom has its own unique style, and hands down the most comfy bed I’ve ever slept in! Outstanding food I just can’t fault this venue and highly recommend a stay if you’re travelling the Pennine Way. 

Roman Army Museum and Magna Fort

In the heart of Hadrian's Wall this gem of a museum gives everything you’d need to know about Roman history. A great one to visit with children as there are so many interactive and attention-grabbing exhibits I was really impressed. With active archaeological digs at Magna Fort, you can literally watch history be uncovered, and just round the corner from the Walltown visitor centre a great one to include on your itinerary. 

Feeling inspired? There’s no better time to lace up your boots and take on the Pennine Way yourself! Whether you tackle a day walk or the full northern part of the Pennine Way, this legendary trail is packed with unforgettable sights. Get out there, explore, and discover the beauty of the North for yourself - you won’t regret it!

To see more of what Emma got up to on hike along the Pennine Way, give her a follow on Instagram or visit her website NorthumberlandAdventures.co.uk

All images courtesy of © Northumberland Adventures.