A greener outing from the town / BARNARD CASTLE

Flatts Wood and the riverside

Follow an officially mapped woodland walk from Scar Top, with the River Tees and Percy Beck bringing a different pace to a Barnard Castle visit. The town’s former industrial setting is part of the story as well as its trees and water. Choose one circuit rather than treating every path as part of a compulsory route.

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Woodland path in Flatts Wood near Barnard Castle — Photo: Gordon Hatton

Before you go

Download the official walk leaflet and choose your route before leaving Scar Top. Mud, gradients and riverside conditions can change what is sensible after rain.

The practical details

Where to find it: Start near the Methodist Church, Scar Top, Barnard Castle DL12 8PW
Directions and arrival information ↗
Tickets and booking: Independent walking has no admission charge. Allow for parking, food and any separately operated leisure activities. Follow notices and avoid riverside routes during flooding or high winds.
Access and getting around: Woodland paths can be muddy and steeper than the town’s riverside section. The accessibility directory describes an undulating riverside route; do not assume either woodland circuit is step-free.
Official access information ↗
Visiting with children: Choose a short mapped route for the group’s stamina, keep away from river edges and turn back if footing deteriorates. Woodland is a dry-weather activity, not shelter from a storm.

Practical information checked 15 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.

Make it part of your day

Allow 1–1½ hours for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.

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