The best walks and hikes around City Of Durham
4.6
(253)
2,287
hikers
106
hikes
Hikes around City of Durham often follow the winding path of the River Wear, which loops around the peninsula holding the city's historic center. The landscape is characterized by riverside paths, gentle hills, and nearby woodlands, offering varied scenery within a compact area. Many routes combine these natural environments with views of prominent landmarks like Durham Cathedral and Castle.
Best hiking trails around City of Durham
- The most popular hiking route is Durham Cathedral & Castle loop, a 1.9 mile (3.1 km) trail that takes around 50 minutes to complete. This walk provides close-up views of the city's main historic sites from the riverside.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is River Wear & Durham City loop, a moderate 10.1 mile (16.3 km) path. The route follows the river for an extended exploration of the surrounding area.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Durham Castle – Durham Riverside Walk loop from Durham, a 7.2 mile (11.7 km) trail leading through the city and along the river, often completed in about 3 hours 5 minutes.
- Hiking around City of Durham is defined by its accessible riverside walks, paths through local woodlands, and routes connecting historical city landmarks. The network of trails offers options suitable for different ability levels, from short city strolls to longer countryside hikes.
- The routes in City of Durham are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 230 reviews. More than 1,900 hikers have used komoot to explore City of Durham's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
4.8
(24)
100
hikers
16.3km
04:24
220m
220m
The River Wear & Durham City loop offers a captivating hiking experience, blending natural riverside beauty with the rich history of Durham. This moderate 10.1-mile (16.3 km) route takes about 4 hours and 23 minutes to complete, featuring a varied terrain of unpaved paths, gravel, and city streets. You will enjoy attractive riverside and woodland views, with sections featuring ancient trees and open fields, all while gaining around 709 feet (216 metres) in elevation.
As you hike, you will encounter a mix of surfaces, including some sections that can become quite muddy, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The trail is easily accessible from the city center, and the presence of numerous cafes and pubs in Durham City provides opportunities for refreshments along the way. This makes it a convenient option for a day out, combining outdoor activity with urban amenities.
A major highlight of the River Wear & Durham City loop is the constant, dramatic views of Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, rising majestically above the wooded cliffs. The trail also passes other historic sites like Maiden Castle, an ancient Iron Age hill fort, and various historic bridges. This unique combination of serene riverbanks, tranquil woodlands, and a bustling historic city center truly allows you to step through different worlds in just a few miles.
4
hikers
3.11km
00:51
50m
50m
Easy 1.9-mile loop hike around Durham Cathedral and Castle, offering historic views and riverside paths in just 51 minutes.
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4.6
(21)
84
hikers
11.5km
03:05
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(39)
333
hikers
9.95km
02:37
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(19)
58
hikers
24.7km
06:32
230m
230m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around City Of Durham
Tips from the Community
From the 18th-century stone bridge, you can see Durham Cathedral and Castle on top of a rocky peninsula, wrapped by the River Wear.
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The cathedral was originally constructed to house the relics of St Cuthbert, a beloved Northumbrian saint. His shrine is a significant pilgrimage destination.
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The footbridge is a cable-stayed bridge over the River Wear in Durham. It is a popular crossing for walkers and for Durham University, as it connects the main sports complex with additional playing fields on the opposite bank.
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nice easy parking, walk accross the bridge over the river and you can either walk left or right giving you two options to walk up or down the river. quite pleasant but can get a bit boggy when it rains so wear the correct footwear. does get busy in the warmer months
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'Reveal' by Richard Cole is a conical column of irregularly textured stone with six shallow niches and a long narrow aperture at its centre. Constructed using centuries-old stone from the Cathedral's former turret, the sculpture was unveiled in 1997, standing under trees opposite the cathedral.
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A television series that I can recommend without reservation presents the culture-loving viewer (in German) with remarkable examples of human creativity from many countries around the world. What they all have in common is that they have been given "world heritage" status by UNESCO. One of the contributions documents: "Like a grey rock, Durham Cathedral, located in the north-east of England near the Scottish border, towers over the roofs of the city. Half church and half bastion, this building is an impressive example of early Romanesque church architecture in England. The three-storey Anglo-Norman cathedral with a 2 m thick arcade wall and Norman castle complex, the later seat of the bishops of Durham, was declared a cultural monument." This film can be found in the ARD media library under the following link: https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/die-kathedrale-von-durham-grossbritannien-folge-138/3sat/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MTY4ODA2
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We recommend a short walk along the river loop around the rock. Here you can see several bridges, including two bridges from the Middle Ages.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many easy, family-friendly walks in Durham?
Yes, Durham offers numerous options for family outings. The Durham Cathedral & Castle loop is a very popular choice; it's a short, accessible walk with impressive views of the city's landmarks. For a walk in a more natural setting, Low Burnhall is highly regarded by local families for its gentle paths through woodland.
Can I take my dog on the hiking trails?
Many of the trails in and around Durham are great for walking with dogs. The extensive riverside paths are a local favorite for dog walkers. Places like Low Burnhall are also well-known for being pet-friendly. As always, it's best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near wildlife or in areas with livestock.
Are there any good circular walks available?
Circular routes are very common in the area, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. For a longer day out, the River Wear & Durham City loop provides a comprehensive 10-mile tour of the river and its surroundings. Many other routes also follow a circular pattern, often looping back to the city center.
How many hiking trails are there around the City of Durham?
There is a wide variety of trails to explore, with over 100 routes available on komoot. These range from short, easy city walks to more challenging, longer hikes in the surrounding countryside, ensuring there's a path for every fitness level.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Durham?
The hiking routes around Durham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers frequently praise the beautiful views of the cathedral and castle from the riverside paths, as well as the peaceful atmosphere of the nearby woodlands.
Are there any long-distance hiking options?
Yes, for those looking for a more substantial challenge, there are several longer trails. The Durham Castle – Durham Riverside Walk loop from Durham is a great example, covering over 7 miles and taking you through both the city and along the scenic riverbanks for an extended journey.
Where can I find good views or scenic spots on a hike?
Many trails offer fantastic scenery. The paths along the River Wear provide classic, iconic views of Durham Cathedral and Castle perched on the peninsula. For a different perspective, Aykley Wood Nature Reserve is a great spot for walks with rewarding views over the surrounding area.
What is the terrain like for hiking in Durham?
The terrain is generally gentle and accessible. Most hikes follow well-maintained riverside paths, which are relatively flat, or trails through local woodlands with some gentle hills. You won't find steep mountain climbs, making it a pleasant destination for walking.
Are there any trails that are good for a quiet walk in the woods?
For a peaceful woodland experience, Aykley Wood Nature Reserve offers a network of paths away from the city's hustle and bustle. Another excellent choice is Low Burnhall, a Woodland Trust site known for its multiple trails through a quiet, wooded landscape.
What are some popular places for hiking in the City of Durham?
The most popular hiking area is the central
Riverside walk, which loops around the peninsula and is praised for its flat paths and historic views. For a more immersive nature walk, Low Burnhall (Woodland Trust) is a local favorite, offering several trails through lovely woods. Aykley Wood Nature Reserve is another excellent option for a scenic walk with great views.
Can I get to the trailheads using public transport?
Yes, one of the great advantages of hiking in Durham is its accessibility. Many of the most popular walks, especially those along the river and around the city center, start just a short walk from the main train and bus stations, making it easy to explore without a car.
Where is a good place to park for a hike?
For hikes starting in the city, there are several public car parks, though they can be busy. For walks slightly outside the center, some nature spots offer their own parking. For example, Low Burnhall has a free car park, although spaces can be limited during peak times.
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