Top 6 walks in County Durham

Our Heather View and Kingfisher parks are situated in beautiful County Durham. You’ll find some of the best walking routes in the UK here, taking in the stunning countryside and coastline. Be prepared to wrap up warm and wear a sturdy pair of walking boots because the terrain can be rugged and exposed to the northeasterly elements.

1. Durham Heritage Coast Walk

If you are looking for breath-taking clifftop views, this is the walk for you. The walk starts in Seaham’s North Dock and follows a southbound route for 11-miles to Crimdon. Superb grassland is supported by Magnesian Limestone topped by boulder clay forming the perfect habitat for flora and fauna including the very special Durham Argus butterfly.

2. Low and High Force

You can’t beat a stunning waterfall and this walk will take you to England’s biggest. This gorgeous five-mile circular walk in Upper Teasdale, in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, will leave you awe-inspired when the waterfall comes into view and is guaranteed to lift the spirits.

3. Pennine Way – Baldersdale to Langdon Beck

The Durham stretch of the Pennine Way covers approximately 15 miles and encompasses some of the natural wonders of the UK. As well as the waterfalls High Force and Low Force, the highlights include Cow Green Reservoir, the cascading Cauldron Snout, reckoned to be the longest waterfall in England, and High Cup Nick, a superb u-shaped glaciated valley.

4. Cow Green Geological Trail

If you are interested in geology this trail will introduce you to many of the rocks which make the Teesdale landscape so special and a haven for rare and interesting plants. Approximately four kilometers each way from Harwood, Barnard Castle, allow a full day for the complete walk, and be prepared with your waterproofs even in summer! In places, the route passes old mine workings so keep to the footpaths.

Taking a break from nature here are two trails with a difference, perfect for experiencing the cultural and historical scenery of the county.

5. Durham Camra Beer Trail

A pub crawl with a difference, taking in the picturesque city of Durham once described as “a perfect little city” by best-selling author Bill Bryson. The trail starts at the Bridge Hotel in North Road and takes in ten of the best real ale pubs in Durham City.

6. Blue Plaque Trail – Barnard Castle

An easy family-friendly walk around the traditional market town, known as the gateway to Teesdale. Follow the blue plaques for 1.5 miles as the trail ambles around places where Dickens stayed and Wesley preached as well as finding out more about the people and places that made an impact on what’s known locally as “Barney”.