4.8
(39)
381
riders
35
rides
Touring cycling routes around Brandon And Byshottles offer a diverse landscape within County Durham, characterized by former railway paths, river valleys, and varied countryside. The region provides an extensive network of cycle routes, many of which are traffic-free and feature gentle gradients. Cyclists can explore scenic views of patchwork farmland, woodland, and riverbanks. These paths connect to broader cycling networks, including sections of the Durham Round Trail.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
4.7
(12)
99
riders
40.7km
02:34
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
47
riders
16.3km
01:02
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
26
riders
28.4km
01:56
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(7)
24
riders
18.1km
01:09
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
12
riders
12.5km
00:49
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Hard packed former railway, now a popular walkway for cyclists and walkers. A good route to Bishop Auckland and beyond. Can get busy on weekends.
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Willington is a former mining town based on the Brandon to Bishop Auckland disused railway, which use to serve the coal mining industry. It's colliery closed in 1967. There are some local shops and plenty of benches, so serves as a good rest stop.
1
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Links Witton Gilbert to the Durham cycle track
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The River Deerness runs 11.6 miles (18.7 km) through the picturesque valley of the same name. On its way, it passes Waterhouses, Ushaw Moor and Esh Winning villages before joining the River Browney near Langley Moor. It is thought that the river's name is the oldest place name in County Durham. Deerness is pre-Celtic and means 'rushing or roaring river.'
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Brandon And Byshottles offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 35 options to explore. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 12 easy, 17 moderate, and 6 difficult trails.
Yes, the region is well-suited for beginners and families, featuring many routes built on former railway lines that offer gentle gradients and traffic-free experiences. An excellent option is the Broompark Picnic Area – Lanchester Valley Path loop from Bearpark, an easy 10.1-mile path utilizing the scenic Lanchester Valley Path.
You can expect diverse scenery ranging from picturesque County Durham countryside to more rugged uplands. Many routes follow former railway paths, winding through patchwork farmland, woodland, and riverbanks. The Dearness Valley Railway Path – River Deerness loop from Waterhouses, for instance, offers a smooth ride along the River Deerness through varied landscapes.
Yes, many routes in Brandon And Byshottles are designed as loops, providing convenient circular tours. The River Deerness – Deerness path loop from Brancepeth is a popular 17.7-mile moderate trail that takes you through river valleys and scenic paths, returning to your starting point.
The area is rich in historical and architectural gems that can be incorporated into your rides. You can explore sites like Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the beautiful ruins of Finchale Priory nestled on the River Wear. Other points of interest include The Count's House Folly and Croxdale Hall and Chapel.
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Brandon And Byshottles, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive network of traffic-free former railway paths, the gentle gradients, and the diverse scenery that includes patchwork farmland, woodlands, and riverbanks.
For those seeking a longer or more challenging ride, Brandon And Byshottles offers several options. The Deerness path – River Deerness loop from Waterhouses is a difficult 32.2-mile (51.8 km) route with significant elevation changes, providing a more demanding experience through the region's varied terrain.
Yes, Brandon And Byshottles is well-integrated into broader cycling networks. You can access sections of the Durham Round Trail and the C2C (Coast to Coast) cycle route, as well as the National Cycle Network (NCN14), allowing for longer, multi-day tours beyond the immediate area.
The diverse landscapes of Brandon And Byshottles can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while some routes, particularly the former railway paths, can be suitable for cycling even in milder winter conditions.
Yes, several routes in the area offer pleasant riverside cycling experiences. The River Deerness is a prominent feature, with paths like the River Browney – Lanchester Valley Path loop from Bearpark providing scenic sections along river valleys and through local countryside.
Many routes offer scenic views of the County Durham countryside, including patchwork farmland, woodlands, and riverbanks. For a particularly iconic view, consider incorporating a stop at the View of Durham Cathedral from Prebends Bridge, which is accessible from various cycling routes in the wider Durham area.


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