Walking
Hundreds of miles of public footpaths, former industrial railway lines and quiet country lanes provide a huge range of walking opportunities from peaceful family strolls along the riverside to strenuous hill walking and long distance trails.Walking is a great way to explore Weardale and experience the tranquillity, stunning countryside, magnificent views and varied wildlife. Using the local bus service and the Weardale Railway, you can plan a linear route as well as circular walks.
The Weardale Way from Cowshill in Upper Weardale to the mouth of the River Wear and the coast at Sunderland Bridge, Croxdale roughly 74 miles.
The Weardale Pilgrimage Route is being developed to showcase the religious sites and stories of Weardale, with shorter link walks.
The six Northern Saints Trails have been developed to showcase ancient pilgrimage routes around the North East.
County Durham Definitive Public Rights of Way map online.
The publication of the public rights of way is a guide for visitors but not a guarantee that the footpath will be open. Please report any issues.
For more ideas of places to walk have a look at the Villages section of this website.
Footpaths in County Durham
The publication of the public rights of way is a guide for visitors but not a guarantee that the footpath will be open.
Please report any issues:
Walking in the North Pennines
A collection of walks in the North Pennines National Landscape
The North Pennines offers a range of walks, from open moorland to the villages in the dales, with great views and historic places to explore. These self-guided walks are themed to ignite an interest in the birdlife, geology, nature and history of the area.
‘This is Durham’ Walks
A collection of walks in County Durham
This site offers a range of walks to suit all abilities, including wheelchair and pushchair friendly walks. There are routes to inspire you as well as the Northern Saints Trails, offering a new pilgrimage route across the historic county.
Durham County Council Walks
Durham County Council walks in the countryside.
Some of these walks are in Weardale including sections of the Weardale Way, as well as short walks to explore unusual features of the area, such as Frosterley Marble, the river Wear, the lead industry and ‘farming, mining and Methodism’.
Local Walking Groups
In Weardale, walking groups have become integral to the community, providing a platform for residents and visitors to explore the stunning landscapes on foot. From leisurely strolls along the River Wear to challenging hikes through rugged hills, these groups cater to diverse preferences and fitness levels. Beyond physical benefits, participants often forge lasting friendships, fostering a sense of community and celebrating the joy of walking in this idyllic corner of the world.
Wolsingham Wayfarers, who have produced a lovely series of day walks in the area, available free of charge from the library and other tourist displays. They also host a free guided walk on the 2nd Saturday of every month leaving Wolsingham Town Hall at 10am. All walks are circular, and are typically between 6 and 9 miles in length. Walks are open to anyone able to negotiate stiles and muddy puddles.
Weardale Scrambled Legs who lead a walk each month in the area.
