Weardale is a beautiful valley located in County Durham, North East England. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and picturesque villages, it has become a sought-after destination for walkers and hikers. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a beginner looking to explore the outdoors, Weardale offers a diverse range of walks to cater to all abilities. In this blog post, we will take you on a detailed journey through the top 10 walks in and around Weardale, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich heritage of this stunning region.
1. Cow Green Reservoir & Cauldron Snout Loop
Embark on a challenging and rewarding 10-mile loop that will take you through the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This trail begins at Cow Green Reservoir and follows the path along the majestic River Tees, leading you to the awe-inspiring Cauldron Snout waterfall. As you ascend to the top of the waterfall, be prepared to feast your eyes on breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The contrasting landscapes of this walk, from the serene reservoir to the roaring waterfall, make it a truly unforgettable experience. Allow yourself ample time, approximately 4-5 hours, to savour every moment of this remarkable journey.
2. Slitt Wood and West Rigg Geotrail
Indulge in a delightful 2.5-mile stroll through a tapestry of natural wonders, including enchanting woods, cascading waterfalls, sprawling moorlands, and remnants of the area's rich lead mining heritage. Begin your walk at the Slitt Wood car park and meander alongside the gentle flow of the River Wear. As you traverse the trail, immerse yourself in the history of the land, with the remnants of old lead mines bearing testament to the region's industrial past. Along the way, be captivated by the breathtaking vistas that unfold, offering glimpses of the picturesque countryside. Allocate approximately 1-2 hours to fully absorb the beauty and tranquillity of this captivating walk.
3. Weardale Way
For avid explorers seeking an immersive and comprehensive experience of Weardale, the Weardale Way offers a captivating 77-mile long-distance trail. Following the meandering path of the River Wear from its source in the North Pennines to its destination at Sunderland, this trail guides you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the North East. Traverse expansive moorlands, traverse through ancient woodlands, and embrace the serenity of riverside paths. The Weardale Way allows you to tailor your adventure, whether you choose to embark on the full trail or select specific sections that pique your interest. The length of this walk may vary, and it is advisable to plan accordingly to ensure you have ample time to fully appreciate the natural splendour that unfolds along the way.
4. Tunstall Reservoir
For a leisurely and picturesque walk, Tunstall Reservoir, Wolsingham offers a serene and idyllic setting. This 2.5-mile circular route weaves its way through tranquil woodlands and invites you to stroll alongside the tranquil water's edge. Immerse yourself in the symphony of nature as you soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Tunstall Reservoir is also a popular spot for fishing, so take a moment to cast your line and revel in the serenity of this natural oasis. Allocate approximately 1-2 hours to leisurely explore the surroundings and rejuvenate your spirit.
5. Fatherley Hill & Wolsingham Park Moor
Embark on a captivating 6-mile circular walk that showcases the breathtaking countryside surrounding Wolsingham. Begin your journey at the Wolsingham Park car park and prepare to be enchanted by the stunning views that unfold as you ascend Fatherley Hill. From the summit, revel in the panoramic vistas of the rolling hills, lush green valleys, and charming villages that dot the landscape. As you traverse Wolsingham Park Moor, observe the remnants of the region's historic lead mines, a testament to its rich industrial heritage. Take your time to absorb the beauty of the surroundings and allow approximately 2-3 hours for this immersive exploration.
6. The Mineral Line & Windy Hill
Step back in time and traverse history on this captivating 6-mile circular walk. Follow in the footsteps of the Weardale Iron Company Railway, once a lifeline for transporting iron ore from the mines to the smelting works. As you stroll along the path of this historic railway line, let your imagination transport you to a bygone era. The trail leads you to Windy Hill, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Allow yourself ample time, approximately 2-3 hours, to fully absorb the historical significance and natural splendour of this captivating walk.
7. Weardale Circular
Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life with a peaceful 3.1-mile loop trail near Bishop Auckland. This hidden gem takes you on a serene journey through beautiful woodlands alongside the gentle flow of the River Wear. The trail offers an ideal setting for fishing, hiking, or even a refreshing run. One of the charms of this trail is its tranquillity, as encounters with other walkers are likely to be minimal. Take your time to reconnect with nature and allocate approximately 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the serenity and beauty of this hidden retreat.
8. The Pennine Way
Prepare for an epic adventure along the legendary Pennine Way, a long-distance trail spanning 268 miles from Edale in the Peak District to Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders. Encompassing the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this trail guides you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the UK. Allow yourself the freedom to choose specific sections of the trail that captivate your interest or embark on the entire route for an unforgettable journey. The length of this walk varies depending on the sections chosen, and it is advisable to plan accordingly to ensure you have sufficient time to fully embrace the grandeur and beauty of this remarkable trail.
9. Weardale Railway Walk
Unveil the enchanting charm of the Weardale Railway with this delightful 3-mile walk, stretching from Bishop Auckland to Stanhope. As you amble along this historic railway, immerse yourself in the picturesque countryside that unfolds around you. Admire the remnants of old railway stations, echoing a bygone era of transportation. Allow yourself approximately 1-2 hours to soak in the scenic beauty and nostalgic ambience of this captivating walk.
10. High Force and Bowlees Geo Trail
Embark on an extraordinary adventure along the High Force and Bowlees Geo Trail, a mesmerizing exploration of geological wonders and breathtaking landscapes. Begin your journey at the iconic High Force Waterfall, one of England's most spectacular waterfalls, where the River Tees dramatically cascades over the rugged rocks. Witness the sheer power and beauty of nature as you stand in awe of this awe-inspiring sight.
From High Force, follow the well-marked trail as it meanders through the stunning landscape of Upper Teesdale, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Immerse yourself in the geological marvels that shape this unique region, including impressive limestone formations, deep gorges, and hidden waterfalls.
As you continue along the trail, you'll reach the Bowlees Visitor Centre, where you can delve deeper into the fascinating geology of the area. Learn about the forces that shaped the landscape and the diverse flora and fauna that call this place home.
Allow yourself ample time to fully appreciate this captivating walk, as there is much to explore and discover along the way. Plan for approximately 2-3 hours to immerse yourself in the natural wonders and geological marvels of the High Force and Bowlees Geo Trail.
Explore the natural wonders of Weardale and beyond through these captivating walks, ranging from challenging hikes to tranquil strolls. Each walk offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of this remarkable region. Lace up your boots, pack your essentials, and embark on an unforgettable journey through Weardale's natural splendour.
Please note that the mentioned distances and times are approximate and can vary depending on individual walking pace, terrain conditions, and any stops along the way. It's always recommended to consult detailed maps and local resources for more precise information before undertaking any walk.
