Attractions and Places To See around Burnhope - Top 20

Burnhope and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit Causey Arch, the world's oldest surviving single-span railway bridge, built in 1727. A short distance away is Durham Cathedral, a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Romanesque architecture. Within Burnhope itself, you'll find St. John the Evangelist Church and a War Memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives in the First World War.

Yes, the area offers several natural attractions. Burnhope Reservoir is a tranquil spot perfect for strolls, hikes, and birdwatching, with sightings of lapwings, whooper swans, and barn owls. The Waskerley Way provides scenic views of County Durham's countryside, including patchwork farmland and moorland. For impressive man-made views, consider visiting Hownsgill Viaduct, a former railway bridge offering expansive vistas.

The Burnhope area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy cycling on traffic-free paths like the Waskerley Way, which is popular with cyclists, hikers, and horse riders. There are numerous public footpaths offering walking opportunities with scenic views of the surrounding hills. For more specific routes, explore options for cycling, gravel biking, and easy hikes around Burnhope.

Absolutely! Beyond the historical sites like Causey Arch and Durham Cathedral which are family-friendly, several attractions cater specifically to families. These include Hall Hill Farm, a children's farm in Lanchester, Beamish Open Air Museum, offering a glimpse into regional history, and Diggerland Durham, a construction machinery theme park.

Burnhope offers a variety of walking and hiking trails. The circular trail around Burnhope Reservoir is suitable for gentle strolls or more challenging hikes through moorland. The Waskerley Way is a 15.6 km traffic-free path popular with hikers. You can find several easy hiking routes around Burnhope, such as the Lanchester Valley Railway Path loops.

Yes, Burnhope Reservoir is a significant spot for birdwatching. Visitors frequently spot lapwings, whooper swans, Canadian geese, and barn owls. Deer have also been seen in the area, making it a great place for wildlife observation.

The Waskerley Way is a 9.7-mile (15.6 km) traffic-free path winding through County Durham's countryside. It showcases impressive railway structures, farmland, woodland, and moorland. It's a popular route for cyclists, hikers, and horse riders, offering wide-open skies and a chance to spot wildlife like slow worms and butterflies. Be aware that it can be exposed, and the weather can change quickly.

Yes, the area is known for its historical railway structures. The most prominent is Causey Arch, the oldest surviving single-span railway bridge in the world. Additionally, the Hownsgill Viaduct, a former railway bridge, is an impressive structure that is now part of the C2C cycle route.

Durham Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prime example of Romanesque architecture, constructed between 1093 and 1133. It was highly influential in European architectural design and remains a functioning establishment, attracting numerous visitors to the city alongside Durham Castle.

The Angel of the North is a prominent contemporary sculpture by Anthony Gormley, located a short distance from Burnhope. This impressive metal structure serves as a significant landmark and viewpoint, often used as a starting point for rides or hikes.

The area around Burnhope is enjoyable for outdoor activities throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for cycling and hiking on trails like the Waskerley Way. However, be prepared for potentially quick weather changes, especially in exposed areas. Autumn provides beautiful scenery, and even winter walks can be rewarding, though conditions may be wilder.