Yet another walk in Teesdale, this one from Middleton along the side of the valley to High Force, and back on the Pennine Way along the southern bank of the river.
From the centre of Middleton, follow the B6277 west, but after crossing a tributary of the Tees, Hudeshope Beck, at the west of the village, instead of turning sharp left, go slightly left and then right up a minor road for about a mile until you see a footpath sign on the left after passing half a dozen buildings (Middle Side). Follow the path as it travels parallel to the road, keeping a small wood to your left.
At Bell House, bear slightly left and go through a small wood before emerging and heading for the road again as it descends steeply into Newbiggin. Go through the hamlet and just after bearing right, take the path on the left and follow it to the car park, picnic site and visitor centre at Bowlees. Here, cross the stream, climb some steps and head for the visitor centre, where you skirt the building on your right and take the gate that gives access to a wide track heading North West as it climbs gently.
Follow it as it curves left, passing Ash Hill Farm on your left and descend again. When you reach a crossroads take the footpath that cuts across fields in a south westerly direction and it will emerge on the High Force Car Park. Cross this and head for the pub.

Yes, that bloke on the left really is naked and he really is bathing in the always-cold River Tees. And, before you ask, yes, it was. Yours would be as well. He refused to react to calls of "Get them on", and quietly went back to the banks and dressed before disappearing.

After quenching your thirst and observing the many (strangely-dressed) visitors, cross the B6277 and turn left for access to a path that descends some steps to a meadow next to the Tees. Make sure you haven’t gone right to the path that goes to High Force waterfall – it costs money, and you got a better view on another  walk (called simply High Force).
Turn left across the meadow and cross the bridge over the river. You are now on the Pennine Way. Turn left and follow it for about a mile alongside the best-looking river you’re likely to see, past Low Force waterfall and Wynch Bridge. It was on this stretch that our members saw the man above, trying to frighten the ladies and children. About half a mile further along, if you are still thirsty or didn’t go into the High Force Hotel, there’s a stile on the right that gives access to a footpath that climbs through a couple of fields to a minor road. Turn left and go down the hill to the Strathmore Arms.
The best way to return to Middleton from here is to return to the Pennine Way. When you get back to the stile, turn right and enjoy the path to Middleton, just over two miles away. You know you’re there when you reach the B6277, turn left and follow it into the village.