Romaldkirk & Barnard Castle (Circuit)
| 5th July 2025 | This general update for walkers concerns current access and navigation on Section 5 of the Teesdale Way (Romaldkirk & Barnard Castle circuit) with particular regard to where it differs from what might be published elsewhere on this site or in our Teesdale Way Pocket Guide.
Local conditions and heavy use quickly degrade infrastructure – particularly timber – causing impromptu and possibly persisting access and/or navigation issues. The chances of the trail changing in some way – short and long-term – is even more likely in urban areas. If your experience is different to what we’ve published here, you can help by leaving your insights in the comments.
Conclusion
There are no significant differences to the route compared to that published in the guide book for this section. Specific Teesdale Way way-marking is plentiful and easy to follow (even easier with a GPS file from The Durham Cow). Infrastructure is generally in good condition with one or two obvious exceptions. The only obvious problem on the full circuit, for us, was a kissing-gate after Cooper House which was very difficult to open due to the gate itself being unstable. It needs a strong push which, unfortunately, worsens the situation. A full repair is required. One obvious cosmetic difference, common for many wooded sections is that forestry operations can change the nature of a location, in this case, Pecknell Wood when descending past the Tees Railway Viaduct. Historically it’s been darkened due to heavy tree cover but now is precisely the opposite.
As with the majority of sections on the Teesdale Way there are many stiles, gates and steps to contend with which require care to cross in order to have a great day out. The trail itself was dry for us but it’s prone to being muddy in wet weather particularly in Skittle Bank Wood near the “Fairy Cupboards” where it’s also very rugged, “rooty” and slippery. Take particular care on the moss-covered, potentially slippery rocks if you’re trying to view the “Fairy Cupboards”.
That’s it for Section 5. We hope this helps. If you have anything to add please feel free to do it in the comments. Happy Walking!
Gallery
View a comprehensive selection of images for Section 5 taken on the day of the update in our Google Gallery.