Walking & Cycling in the Tees Valley

Whatever the season it is always the perfect time to get outdoors and explore in the Tees Valley. Whether you are on foot or travelling by bike, you can discover the stunning countryside, dramatic coastline, local parks and gardens as well as urban walks taking in the region’s industrial heritage.

Here are just a few of our suggestions about getting out and about in the Tees Valley whether you are pulling on your walking boots or hopping on your bike.

Remember to adhere to the latest Covid-19 restrictions when out and about. For all of the latest guidance for the Tees Valley go here.

Walney to Whitby
If you are looking for a challenge there are well-established national cycle and walking routes that take in parts of the Tees Valley.

The Walney to Whitby coast to coast cycle route stretches between Walney Island – just outside Barrow-in-Furness on Cumbria’s Irish Sea coast and Whitby on the North Sea coast taking in many parts of the Tees Valley including Darlington, Stockton-on-Tees and along the coast at Saltburn-by-the-Sea and up to Hartlepool.

Cleveland Way National Trail
If you can’t decide whether you prefer dramatic coastline or heather moorland then the 109 mile long Cleveland Way is your perfect trail. With fabulous views, castles, ancient stone crosses and fishing villages tucked into tiny coves, it has the lot. You can’t take on the Cleveland Way without building in a pit stop in the pretty Victorian seaside town of Saltburn-by-the-Sea. Enjoy a stroll along the pleasure pier or pick up some delicious fish and chips and devour them in front of the brightly coloured beach huts.

You can also venture into Middlesbrough from this route and explore the local green spaces such as Stewart Park or re-fuel and try one of the great independent restaurants along Baker and Bedford Street.

The Teesdale Way
The Teesdale Way is a 92 mile route which follows the River Tees from its source at Dufton in Cumbria to the sea at South Gare taking in heritage trails, countryside and the industrial landscape of Tees Valley along the way.

Following the Teesdale Way gives the perfect excuse to discover Darlington, Stockton-on-Tees and Redcar. Highlights include routes around Tees Barrage,  perfect for walking or cycling, countryside routes hidden behind the pretty market town of Yarm leading to Preston Park or riverside routes at Piercebridge near Darlington.

You can discover walking and cycling routes in the Tees Valley and beyond here. We would also love to know your favourite routes and see your pics if you are out and about. Get in touch on social media using the hashtag #EnjoyTeesValley.