Month: May 2013 (Page 5 of 9)

The stretch of the Tees from Egglestone to Cotherstone is known as the racing stretch due to its use as a ww racing venue. Access at Eggleston Bridge has been dodgy for some years so you are better off heading up stream to put on at Middleton. The outdoor centre at Middleton is a pefect place to get on it can found just outside of town on the road to High Force. As you leave town you’ll go over a stone bridge which has a tight left hand turn. As you head up the bank you’ll see some new houses on the left. the outdoor centre lies just beyond the houses. Don’t park in front of the house, just call into the outdoor centre and ask to leave your car. 9 times out of 10 it will be OK. A short 200m walk down a narrow footpath takes you right down to the river. Alternatively park in town and walk down to the river.

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Abbey rapids is a popular rapid on the River Tees just downstream from the market town of Barnard Castle. The rapid has been used for many years as slalom site, but also provides a number of play spots for the freestyle paddler. The run from Barnard Castle to Whorlton Lido (grade III) holds plenty of nice little playspots as well as being a great run.

The rapid has a fairly steep gradient with number of small waves along its length. At the bottom of the run there are two large waves which can be surfed and spun on. But there is also a nice little hole which is fairly rententive and where cartwheels can be pulled. Continue reading