Autumn & Winter in Teesdale
26 October 2012
Stay at Headlam for some winter walking, by Thomas Robinson
Autumn is my favourite season - the colours of the countryside are stunning, especially the Virginia Creeper on the east side of the Hall and I always like the return of fresh mornings and cool evenings which give you an excuse to light the fire once again. As for the winter months we never know what we are going to get. It could just as easily be a foot of snow as a mild sunny day! We may not have had the best of summers weather-wise (to put it lightly) but the frequent summer rain has certainly kept the gardens and golf course looking lovely and green. As Alfred Wainwright once said “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing”. I think anyone involved with farming might disagree with that!
I have always enjoyed long walks in the countryside and have done so in many stunning places including the Lake District, Snowdonia and the Alps. You often overlook what is under your nose so in recent months I have made an effort to explore more of the walks on my doorstep here in Teesdale and my conclusion has been; why didn’t I do this years ago? The river Tees, particularly from just down the road at Piercebridge up to Couldron Snout in the North Pennines (area of outstanding beauty) must be one of the most picturesque rivers anywhere. Unspoilt countryside, historic stone bridges, pretty villages, fast flowing rapids and breath-taking waterfalls (including High Force, England’s highest) all make this a walker’s paradise. I also hear that it is one of the best wild fishing rivers in the country and highly rated for canoeing and kayaking.
We offer some great short break packages in the autumn and winter months, details of which can be found on our website. Hopefully there will be plenty of opportunities to enjoy our local walking in some winter sun but failing that and in the event that you do not have suitable clothing or the inclination for walking in adverse weather there is always the tranquillity of our spa in which to hibernate for the day!