- Play Hard
- 11th Nov 2026
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5 autumn walks in the Tees Valley that end at a cosy pub
Autumn walks in the Tees Valley don’t get much better than crunchy leaves underfoot, a nip in the air, and a pub waiting at the end. We’ll take that over a summer stroll any day.
From riverside rambles and woodland trails to proper hill climbs on the edge of the North York Moors, there’s no shortage of scenic routes to tackle this season. And plenty of them come with a cosy pub on the route for a well-earned pint and a hearty plate.
We’ve rounded up five autumn walks in the Tees Valley with gorgeous seasonal colour and brilliant pubs to match.
ROSEBERRY TOPPING AND THE KING’S HEAD INN
Roseberry Topping is a staple walk for Teessiders all year round, but autumn’s when it really shows off. The woods around the base turn gold and copper, and the views from the top stretch across a patchwork of rusty fields and moorland. Take the stone steps up for a proper leg workout.
Once you’re back down, The King’s Head Inn sits right at the foot of the hill in Newton under Roseberry. It’s known for its Sunday lunches, and dogs are welcome in designated areas with water bowls and treats on hand. Grab a seat by the fire and you won’t want to leave.
YARM CIRCULAR AND THE BLUE BELL
Yarm’s a total hotspot for food and drink, but it’s also the perfect spot for a riverside wander. This circular walk starts at Yarm Bridge and follows the Tees around the town, taking in the viaduct, the churches, and a slice of the historic high street.
When you’re done, The Blue Bell is waiting just over the bridge. It’s a former 18th-century coaching inn with a dog-friendly beer garden right on the riverbank. Fancy somewhere livelier? The Black Bull on the High Street is the place for pub classics and the big match.
REDMARSHALL, WHITTON AND HONEY POT WOOD CIRCULAR AND THE SHIP
There are loads of pretty villages tucked around the Tees Valley’s bigger towns, and this walk takes in two of them. The circular is just under three miles, heading from Redmarshall up to Whitton, down through Honey Pot Wood, and back again. It’s a gentle, simple route, so it’s ideal if you’ve got kids in tow.
Back in Redmarshall, you have to call in at The Ship . It’s parmo heaven, with more than 35 versions on a menu laid out like a world map, alongside plenty of pub favourites. Dogs are welcome too. You’ll be planning your next visit before the bill arrives.
GREAT BROUGHTON AND THE WAINSTONES CIRCULAR AND THE BAY HORSE
Having the North York Moors right on the doorstep is one of the Tees Valley’s biggest perks. Just over the border in Great Broughton, this circular climbs over Cold Moor to the Wainstones, a jagged sandstone outcrop with incredible views. It’s around seven miles with some steep climbs, so allow three and a half to four and a half hours and save it for older kids.
The walk starts and finishes at The Bay Horse, so it’d be rude not to nip in and thaw out by the open log fire. Just note that dogs aren’t allowed inside, food’s served Tuesday to Sunday, and booking’s recommended.
ROPNER PARK AND THE MASHAM
You can’t go wrong with a park walk, and Ropner Park in Stockton is gorgeous at this time of year. This Grade II* listed Victorian park opened in 1893, and you can make your stroll as long or as short as you like. Take in the restored fountain, the bandstand, and the lake, plus the playground if you’ve got kids along.
Leave by the Hartburn Lane entrance and it’s a short walk into Hartburn Village, where The Masham is a firm local favourite. Dogs are welcome inside and in the beer garden, so the whole family can come along. On a crisp, bright afternoon, grab a garden table and toast a good walk.
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