Bowlees and the Gibson's Cave Trail

At a Glance

Distance

2.0 km (1.2 miles)

Difficulty

Easy

Duration

45 min

Walk Type

Waterfall, Woodland, River

Route Type

Out and Back

Off Lead Potential

Moderate

Livestock Risk

Low

Facilities

Cafe, toilets and interpretation exhibition at Bowlees Visitor Centre.

Parking

Donate-and-display car park at Bowlees Visitor Centre with space for around 40 cars.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Bowlees and the Gibson's Cave Trail dog friendly?

  Yes, this is a well-suited walk for dogs, earning a rating of 8 out of 10 on Wildpack Collective. The short, wooded route along Bowlees Beck is particularly good for older dogs and those who prefer a gentler outing, with mossy boulders, spring primroses and the sound of the beck for company the whole way.

• Can dogs be off lead at Bowlees and the Gibson's Cave Trail?

  There are sections where off-lead walking is possible, but close control is needed in a couple of spots. Dogs should be kept on the lead on the final approach to Gibson's Cave where the rocks are permanently damp and stepping stones can get slippery, and at the field boundaries on the walk in where sheep are present.

• What should I know before visiting Bowlees and the Gibson's Cave Trail with my dog?

  The paths are compact earth and stone with a couple of gentle rises, making it an accessible outing for most dogs. Bowlees Visitor Centre at the start has a cafe and toilets, which is handy before or after your walk, and parking is available in the donate-and-display car park which holds around 40 cars.

Bowlees Visitor Centre, B6277, Newbiggin

54.6506, -2.1487