Top 5 County Durham Walks: Best Guide by a Local

Nestled in the heart of North East England, County Durham is a region brimming with rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. It also happens to be the place I was born and raised. I've enjoyed a myriad of County Durham walks, and I'm here to share my favourites with you all.

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or prefer a leisurely stroll, this region is a hidden gem for walking enthusiasts. So lace up your walking boots and get ready to explore the best County Durham walks, recommended by a local.

About County Durham

County Durham is steeped in history, with Durham City at its heart. The city is home to the majestic Durham Cathedral and Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With the stunning Romanesque architecture of the cathedral, coupled with the university's venerable presence, Durham City is a beacon of ecclesiastical and educational significance. In addition to the treasures of Durham City, the region is dotted with historical sites such as the Auckland Castle, the former home of the Prince Bishops of Durham, and Beamish Museum, a living museum that transports visitors back to various eras of the North East.

The landscape of County Durham is diverse and breathtaking, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Form the tranquil Durham Dales, part of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, to the rugged coastline of the Durham Heritage Coast, the county offers wide-ranging vistas and walking opportunities.

The county is also known for its charming towns and villages, each with its own distinct character. Among them, there's Barnard Castle, a charming market town with eclectic boutiques and antique shops, and Bishop Auckland, which hosts the awe-inspiring 'Kynren' historical spectacle during the summer months. County Durham hosts numerous events and festivals that celebrate its cultural richness and community spirit. From the Durham Book Festival to the Durham Miners' Gala, these events draw visitors from far and wide, offering a glimpse into the local traditions and art scene.

Why You Should Go on Walks in County Durham

County Durham provides an unrivalled opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. With its lush woodlands, rolling hills, and meandering rivers, the county's natural beauty is both calming and invigorating. Explore the dramatic landscapes of Teesdale, home to the stunning High Force Waterfall, and the expansive woodlands of Hamsterley Forest, with waymarked trails that wind through towering trees and open glades.

County Durham walks are not just about the scenery, it's also a journey through time. The county is steeped in history, with many paths leading you to fascinating historical landmarks. Venture into picturesque villages like Barnard Castle and Staindrop, where cobbled streets, traditional pubs, and historic churches paint a picture of bygone eras. County Durham's varied topography supports a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a treasure trove for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The dramatic coastline of the Durham Heritage Coast, with its craggy cliffs and sandy beaches, offers stunning sea views and places like Low Barns Nature Reserve, where wetlands and woodlands are teeming with wildlife. 

County Durham walks are an excellent way to boost your physical and mental health. Engaging with nature and plummeting into physical activity can help reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. Walking through serene landscapes provides an opportunity to practice mindfulness and appreciate the present moment, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Top 5 County Durham Walks

County Durham is a walker's paradise that beckons with the promise of discovery and inspiration. Check out my top 5 County Durham walks and explore this wonderful county I get to call home.

1. Cow Green Reservoir & Cauldron Snout

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Nestled in the rugged landscape of County Durham, the Cow Green Reservoir and Cauldron Snout circular walk is a captivating walking route that offers a blend of serene water views, dramatic geological features, and an exhilarating outdoor adventure. The route spans approximately 7.5 miles (12km) and typically takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete. Parking is free and available at Cow Green Reservoir Car Park.

Begin your adventure at Cow Green Reservoir, an impressive man-made body of water situated within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The serene expanse of the reservoir provides an ideal setting for a tranquil start to your hike, with opportunities to spot local birdlife and take in the surrounding landscapes. As you continue along the trail, you'll encounter Cauldron Snout, England's longest waterfall. Fed by the River Teers, this roaring cascade tumbles over a steep series of rocky steps, offering a dramatic display of nature's power. The rocky terrain can be challenging to descend, so be sure to wear sturdy walking boots and take care while navigating this scramble. 

Following this descent, continue the walk alongside the River Tees until you reach a farmhouse. Pass through the farmland and follow the trail to the main road. Take a left and head along this country road until you return to the Cow Green Reservoir Car Park. The area around the reservoir and River Tees is rich in biodiversity, with a variety of plant and animal species to discover. Keep your eyes peeled for curlews, skylarks, and other birds that populate this region. With its combination of peaceful reservoir views, dramatic waterfalls, and geological curiosities, this trail is bound to leave a lasting impression.

2. Teesdale Three Waterfalls & Hare Hill

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This picturesque trail takes you through dramatic scenery, treating you to a trio of breathtaking waterfalls that showcase the region's natural beauty and power. The entire walk covers approximately 6.5 miles (10.5km) and can take around 3-4 hours. Beginning at the Bowlees Visitor Centre, you'll find everything you need with amenities including parking, a café, and informative displays about the local area.

From the visitor centre, embark on the initial leg of the walk towards the enchanting Summerhill Force. A real highlight here is Gibson's Cave, a magical rock overhang behind the waterfall. When you're ready, retrace your steps back to the centre. From there, continue your journey towards Hare Hill, where the breathtaking views across the lush valleys act as a panoramic backdrop for your adventure. Make your way towards Dirt Pit Farm, where the landscape begins to open up, offering vast horizons and the chance to spot local wildlife amidst the moorland. Continue through the fields to High Force Hotel.

As one of England's most renowned waterfalls, High Force is undoubtedly a highlight of the walk. At 21 metres high, this mighty cascade thunders down into the gorge below, creating a spectacular display of raw, natural power. A ticket is required to visit High Force, costing just under £4 for adults. This helps to fund maintenance of the footpaths and the protection of the local environment. Following the river path, the trail meanders towards Low Force, another stunning waterfall known for its wide cascade and gentle incline. The final stretch leads you back along the river to the Bowlees Visitor Centre. This journey promises memories to cherish against the backdrop of one of England's most stunning landscapes.

3. Low Barns Nature Reserve

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As one of the shorter County Durham walks on this list, the Low Barns circular walk is a perfect escape into nature, providing tranquillity and a glimpse of the local ecosystem. This route is roughly 1.5 miles (2.4km) and takes around 30-60 minutes to complete, depending on how long you spend wildlife watching of course. Located near the village of Witton-le-Wear, Low Barns is easily accessible, with ample parking (free, but donations welcome) and visitor facilities.

The Low Barns Nature Reserve is an impressive 50-hectare site managed by the Durham Wildlife Trust. It stands as a sanctuary for a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a prime spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers. With its varied habitats, including wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands, this reserve promises an engaging experience for all visitors. Start your adventure with the spectacular wetlands, home to an array of waterfowl. Depending on the season, you may spot species like herons, kingfishers, and various ducks.

Venture into the woodlands, where a peaceful canopy provides shade and the chance to observe small mammals and forest birds. The walk continues along the banks of the River Wear, offering enchanting views and the melodious sounds of flowing water. Here, if you're lucky, you might catch sight of otters playing. Each season brings its own charm to the reserve. Spring and summer boast vibrant flora and active wildlife, while autumn offers spectacular foliage and winter a tranquil, frosty beauty. To better observe the wildlife, binoculars are highly recommended. Visit the café at the visitor centre to mark the end of a wonderful walk.

4. Barnard Castle & Egglestone Abbey

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This captivating walk is perfect for those who love to combine a bit of culture with their nature excursions. An approximately 4 mile (6.3km) walk, this route is expected to take around 1.5-2 hours. Begin your journey in the charming market town of Barnard Castle, named after the medieval fortress that stands as its crown jewel. The ruins of Barnard Castle offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. Take a moment to explore the castle grounds and enjoy the vibrant local marketplace before setting off on your walk.

As you leave Barnard Castle, wander through the old market town towards Demesnes Park and Riverview Cottage. Cross the picturesque English countryside by following the well-trodden paths that lead you along the River Tees, through woodland, and ultimately to the Egglestone Abbey Bridge. The path alongside the River Tees is lined with verdant foliage and vibrant wildflowers, providing the perfect backdrop as you make your way to the next historical gem. Take care passing through fields on this route as there may be sheep or cows grazing.

Turn right once you've crossed the bridge and you'll soon arrive at Egglestone Abbey, an evocative ruin of a 12th-century abbey. Wander through the remnants and imagine the tranquil life of the abbey's past inhabitants. Continue your walk along the River Tees where you'll reach the caravan site, River View Park. There's some twists and turns through the park so take care navigating this section. You'll return to a trail along the River Tees which you'll follow until you reach the Green Bridge. This brings you back to the charming town of Barnard Castle.

5. Bollihope to Hamsterley Forest Circular

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This epic 26 miles (42km) walk will likely take around 10-12 hours to complete, depending on pace and stops, making it by far the longest of the County Durham walks on this list. The adventure begins in the tranquil environs of Bollihope, a picturesque starting point nestled amidst rolling hills and lush valleys. Free daytime parking is available on the road towards High Bishopley Caravan Site. This section of the route features scenic pathways that gently guide you though rural County Durham.

Leaving Bollihope behind, the route leads you into the heart of Weardale, an enchanting valley famed for its historical significance and striking landscapes. As you meander through this area, the path offers a series of gentle hills, expansive moorlands, and woodland areas. It's a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. As you approach Hamsterley Forest, the scenery transitions to dense woodland, where towering trees create a canopy overhead. Take the opportunity at this approximate halfway point to grab lunch at the Hamsterley Forest Café.

Hamsterley Forest is known for its abundance of hiking and cycling trails, where the citrus scent of pine needles underfoot and the rustling leaves paint a sensory-rich experience. Emerging from the forest, the path begins to arc back towards Bollihope, crossing open moorlands and rugged landscape that offer expansive views of the Durham Dales. This portion of the walk is a lot more road-based than the first half, but you'll still be greeted with sweeping panoramas that stretch far into the distance. Return to the parking area in Bollihope and enjoy a well-deserved rest after a full day of walking.

To Summarise

County Durham, with its intriguing blend of history, natural beauty, and modern vitality, is a region that invites exploration and discovery. Each footstep here takes you through breathtaking vistas, enriches your understanding of history, and rejuvenates your senses. 

Whether you're escaping the city for a day or planning a longer stay, these County Durham walks offer something truly special to discover. So, pack your walking boots and prepare to uncover the wonders that await in this enchanting corner of the UK. For another fantastic walk in the North East region, consider conquering Roseberry Topping with this guide!

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