The best cycling routes around Durham

Durham offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 50 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy paths to more challenging terrains.

The terrain in Durham is quite diverse. You'll find everything from the dramatic open heather moorlands of the North Pennines to the rugged cliffs of the Durham Heritage Coastline. Many routes also utilize converted railway paths, offering largely flat, traffic-free experiences through woodlands and picturesque river valleys like Weardale and Teesdale.

Yes, Durham has several easy routes perfect for beginners or family outings. The North South Greenway is an excellent choice, offering a largely flat, traffic-free experience, often utilizing former railway lines. There are 22 easy routes in total, providing gentle gradients and scenic views.

Many routes in Durham pass by or near interesting attractions. You can explore natural features like Lake Crabtree on the Crabtree Creek Greenway or visit recreational areas such as Fred G. Bond Metro Park. The region also boasts historic sites like Durham Cathedral and Castle, and Auckland Castle, which provide a dramatic backdrop to rides.

Yes, Durham features several circular routes. The Duke Forest loop is a popular 21.9-mile trail winding through forested areas. Another option is the Brumely Nature Preserve loop, which takes you through natural preserve landscapes. The region also offers themed routes like the 'Link up the Loops - Consett to Chester-le-Street' and the 'Satley Loop'.

The touring cycling routes in Durham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from quiet country roads to traffic-free paths, and the well-maintained network of trails that cater to various abilities.

Durham offers enjoyable cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer is also popular, though routes in exposed areas like the North Pennines can be windy. Always check local weather forecasts, especially for higher elevations.

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Durham offers 6 difficult routes. The North Pennines AONB features dramatic landscapes with exhilarating climbs and wild moorland tracks. The South Durham Orbital is a 54-mile challenging route combining National Cycle Networks and railway paths with on-road sections.

Many cycling routes in Durham are accessible via public transport, particularly those utilizing former railway lines or connecting urban centers. Durham benefits from a comprehensive network, including National Cycle Networks like the Sea to Sea (C2C) Cycle Route, which often have good public transport links at their termini or along their path. It's advisable to check specific route access points and local transport options.

Yes, parking is generally available near many popular touring cycling routes and trailheads across Durham. For example, Hamsterley Forest and the Derwent Reservoir Multi-User Path offer dedicated parking facilities. For routes like the Lanchester Valley Railway Path, you can often find parking in nearby towns or villages. Always check specific starting points for parking availability.

Yes, several routes offer scenic views of lakes and rivers. The Derwent Reservoir Multi-User Path provides excellent views of the reservoir itself. You can also find routes near Lake Crabtree on the Crabtree Creek Greenway and the Jordan Lake loop. The region's river valleys, such as Weardale and Teesdale, also provide picturesque routes alongside waterways.

Durham is well-known for its converted railway paths, which offer excellent traffic-free cycling. The Lanchester Valley Railway Path is a largely flat, 12-mile route between Durham and Consett. Other examples include the Brandon-Bishop Auckland Way and sections of the South Durham Orbital, providing scenic rides through the countryside.