Low & High Force Waterfall Loop (Teesdale)
A picturesque circular trail starting at Bowlees Visitor Centre leads you to two of Durham’s most iconic waterfalls. Stroll through verdant woodlands along the River Tees to the gentle cascades of Low Force, then continue upstream to behold High Force, which is a spectacular 21-metre waterfall thundering into a wooded gorge.
Barnard Castle & Egglestone Abbey Walk
This leisurely riverside walk follows the banks of the River Tees from the historic market town of Barnard Castle to the ruins of Egglestone Abbey. The 3.5-mile circular route crosses an old green footbridge below the castle and meanders through meadows and lanes. You’ll enjoy panoramic river views and encounter medieval heritage at Egglestone Abbey’s peaceful ruins before looping back.
Derwent Reservoir Circular
Discover serenity by the water on this circular walk around Derwent Reservoir, straddling the Durham-Northumberland border. Starting from Pow Hill Country Park – a moorland park on the reservoir’s south shore. The trail circles through lush green spaces and lakeside woods rich with birdlife.
Stanhope and Crawley Edge Loop (Weardale)
Beginning in the charming Dales town of Stanhope, this route climbs up through the disused Ashes Quarry to Crawley Edge for expansive views across Weardale. It’s a moderate circular hike of about 2–3 miles that packs in local heritage and scenery: you’ll see remnants of 19th-century limestone quarrying on the hillside and then emerge atop Crawley Edge to gaze over idyllic valley panoramas.
Tunstall Reservoir Woodland Walk
This peaceful circular walk near Wolsingham takes you around Tunstall Reservoir’s tranquil waters. The 4-mile trail winds through ancient oak woodlands and open fields alive with wildflowers, offering frequent views of the calm reservoir. Birdsong and the gentle lap of water create a zen-like atmosphere as you follow the shoreline.
Middlehope Valley & Slitt Wood
Explore one of the Dales’ hidden gems on this short 3-mile circular near Westgate in Weardale. The trail follows Middlehope Burn into Slitt Wood, an enchanting ancient woodland dotted with small waterfalls and crystal-clear pools. As you wander under the canopy, you’ll encounter the ruins of West Rigg’s lead mining past – old stonework and rusting machinery now reclaimed by nature.
Langdon Beck to High Cup Nick (Upper Teesdale)
Begin your Teesdale Way journey high in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, near the source of the River Tees. This stretch from Langdon Beck toward High Cup Nick showcases the dramatic landscapes of Upper Teesdale. Heather moors, windswept hills, and the infant Tees rushing in the valley accompany you.
Low Force to High Force Section
Arguably the most famous segment of the Teesdale Way, this path connects two magnificent waterfalls. Starting near Bowlees, follow the well-marked riverside trail to Low Force, a charming series of falls, then continue upstream through verdant woods to reach High Force, which plunges 21 metres in a spectacular setting. Along the way, you’ll pass wildflower meadows and might spot herons fishing in calm river pools.
Middleton-in-Teesdale to Cotherstone
This idyllic stretch leads you from the market town of Middleton-in-Teesdale through gentle dales countryside to the village of Cotherstone. The Teesdale Way here hugs the river, winding through hay meadows and charming villages. Highlights include Romaldkirk, home to the “Cathedral of the Dales,” an ancient church, and the mysterious Fairy Cupboards, small caves carved by the river’s flow near Cotherstone.
Barnard Castle to Piercebridge
This segment blends heritage and nature, following the Teesdale Way from the medieval town of Barnard Castle toward the lowland plains. Covering about 8–9 miles, this route offers varied landscapes and centuries of history, from medieval castles to Roman roads,all in one exploratory walk.
Egglestone Abbey to Whorlton Section
Journey through verdant Teesdale woodlands on this tranquil portion of the trail. This gentle 4-mile walk is rich in Victorian charm (Whorlton has a quaint old coaching inn) and natural beauty, especially as the sun filters through leaves onto the river. It’s a peaceful stretch where the whisper of the Tees and the occasional splash of leaping trout are your walking companions.
Lower Teesdale and Piercebridge
The final part of the Teesdale Way in County Durham leads into the Vale of Durham, ending at Piercebridge on the county boundary. This flat riverside walk offers a change of scenery: broad, tranquil river bends flanked by grazing pastureland and willow trees. The rich history is complemented by natural sights like Woden Croft, the former school that inspired “Dotheboys Hall” in Dickens’ Nicholas Nickleby.
Durham City Riverside Loop
This scenic 3-mile circular in the heart of Durham City offers an easy escape into nature with a dose of history. The well-maintained path traces both banks of the River Wear around the peninsula, treating you to beautiful riverside scenery and iconic views of Durham’s Cathedral and Castle perched above. With its mix of city vistas, leafy riverbanks, this loop is a delightful, family-friendly walk.
Shincliffe & Croxdale Circular
Just south of Durham City, this picturesque walk encircles two large loops of the Wear, immersing you in countryside surprisingly close to the city. Starting in Shincliffe Village, the 5-mile routeoffers a rich blend of nature and heritage: expect birdsong in the new forest, glimpses of deer, and a tangible sense of Durham’s rural past in the quiet lanes and estates.
Finchale Priory Riverside Walk
On the outskirts of Durham, this trail explores the wooded riverbanks around Finchale Priory, a 13th-century monastery nestled in a loop of the Wear. The surrounding scenery is idyllic: tall trees, the gentle river, and birds flitting among the remains. This easy 2-mile walk is both peaceful and evocative, perfect for history enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet, reflective outing in nature.
Cathedral & Castle World Heritage Stroll
Immerse yourself in Durham’s crown jewels with a walk around the UNESCO World Heritage Site on the peninsula. This short loop (about 1 mile) invites you to slowly take in the grandeur of these monuments – peek into hidden courtyards, admire the ornate stonework, and soak up panoramic views of the city from Cathedral Terrace.
Riverbanks and Bridges Trail
This scenic city walk highlights Durham’s lovely river setting and its historic bridges. This 2-mile loop provides a wonderful mix of urban and natural sights: historic stone bridges, tranquil riverside woodlands, ducks and rowboats on the Wear, and spectacular glimpses of Durham’s landmarks at every turn. It’s a romantic, leisurely route to appreciate the city’s beauty from below.
Market Place and Historic Core
Explore Durham’s heritage-rich city centre with a wander through its cobbled streets and squares. Start at the Market Place, then stroll up Saddler Street, lined with charming old shops, and detour to St. Nicholas’ Church, the city’s 19th-century civic church. This walk is all about soaking up the atmosphere: street performers, the aroma of coffee from cafés in medieval alleys, and the sound of the historic clock chimes.
Weardale Way (Long-Distance Trail)
Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims, miners, and country folk on the Weardale Way, a 77-mile trail running the length of the Wear Valley. The route mostly follows the meandering River Wear from the North Sea at Sunderland all the way to the heather-clad fells of Upper Weardale. The Weardale Way is truly the definitive trail of the dale, offering versatility for all walkers: do a mile or do twenty, whatever you feel up to.
Elephant Trees Walk (Wolsingham)
This walk is a Weardale classic, leading you high onto the moors for some of the most panoramic views in the county. This route (~6–8 miles depending on start point) exemplifies the peace and open space of Weardale’s uplands. It’s perfect for those seeking a refreshing hike with a bit of elevation and a big visual payoff.
Slitt Wood & West Rigg Lead Mines (Westgate)
Discover Weardale’s hidden industrial heritage on this short but fascinating walk near Westgate. The 3-mile circular route starts in Westgate village and ventures into Slitt Wood, a narrow wooded gorge carved by Middlehope Burn. You’ll encounter a series of picturesque small waterfalls stepping down the burn, creating a soothing soundtrack as you hike.
Stanhope Ashes Quarry & Common
Beginning in Stanhope, the “Capital of Weardale,” this route offers a dose of local history and a dash of adventure. This walk is a microcosm of Weardale’s character: industrious history, resilient nature, and far-reaching dales scenery, all within easy reach of Stanhope’s amenities. It’s a unique, moderately challenging walk that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the landscape and the people who shaped it.
Killhope Mining Museum & Moorland Trail
Venture to the very top of Weardale for a walk that combines cultural heritage with wild Pennine moorland. At the high point (somewhere near Killhope Law), you’ll feel a world away, surrounded by heather, big sky, and absolute quietude. This ~3-mile walk is a memorable journey through time and terrain, from the hardy industrial past to the peaceful, natural present of Weardale’s fells.
Wolsingham to Tunstall Reservoir Loop
Starting from the pretty town of Wolsingham, this 5-mile circular route takes you on a verdant journey to one of Weardale’s most tranquil spots. This walk is all about gentle pleasure: not too strenuous, incredibly scenic, and deeply relaxing. It showcases Weardale’s softer side, lush green scenery, calm waters, and a sense of timeless rural life, making it perfect for a sunny afternoon ramble.
Riverside Trail (Easy Access)
The Riverside Trail is a gentle 1.5-mile walk that welcomes everyone into the heart of Hamsterley Forest. Following a level, stone-surfaced path along the banks of Bedburn Beck, it’s wheelchair and pushchair friendly and ideal for families with young children. You’ll meander through lovely oak woodland beside the burbling beck, often catching sight of playful ducks and maybe a glimpse of a roe deer in the trees.
Bedburn Valley & Gruffalo Loop
A favourite for families, this ~2 mile Gruffalo-themed walk combines the easy Bedburn Valley path with a dash of fairy-tale fun. Along the way, enjoy the fragrant pine and spruce trees, open clearings filled with fern and wildflowers, and perhaps spot squirrels dashing up trunks. Kids can engage with nature play installations (like balance beams and animal footprints) while adults soak in the idyllic forest scenery.
Forests for Wellbeing Trail
Embrace a slower pace on this 2.5-mile mindful walking trail designed to help you relax and reconnect with nature. Along the route you’ll find themed panels inviting you to pause, breathe deeply, and notice the little details, the rustle of leaves, patterns of sunlight, the scent of pine. The trail purposely leads you into less-visited corners of Hamsterley Forest, where you might find yourself utterly alone with the trees and your thoughts.
