Cycling in Durham

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Cycling in Durham offers incredible views of vast and varied landscapes. Choose from the breathtaking sights of the Durham Dales, the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or the dramatic views from the Durham Heritage Coast, where routes are dotted with historical gems and natural wonders. Hamsterley Forest is a magnet for mountain bikers, with its specially designed skills loop, downhill mountain bike courses, and offers a thrill a minute for single track riders. If you prefer to take it easy, head for the peace and tranquillity of the water at one of Durham’s many reservoirs or riverside routes.

There are many popular cycling routes around Durham, firstly the Waskerley Way a shared cycling and walking path that follows the route of the Old Stanhope and Tyne Railway line. The path starts near Consett and runs to Weather Hill passing through woodland and open moorland. You will also pass the delightful Smiddy Shaw and Waskerley Reservoirs. The second route is the Lanchester Valley Walk. This shared cycling and walking path uses the route of the railway originally built to carry iron ore to Consett Steelworks. The path runs from Durham to Consett passing Bearpark, Langley Park and Lanchester. Route highlights include the 13th century Beaurepaire Priory at Bearpark, Lanchester Roman Fort and some lovely views of the River Browney.

Of course if you would rather keep the bike firmly planted on the ground, Durham’s many winding country lanes, quaint villages and towns have a great network of roads connecting them all together, meaning you’re never far away from the next great attraction or beauty spot to admire.

For more information on what there is to explore in the region while cycling in Durham, check out our Things to Do in Durham guide.

Photo by David Ross on Unsplash

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