The best walks and hikes around Great Lumley
4.5
(1253)
8,477
hikers
619
hikes
Hiking around Great Lumley explores a landscape shaped by the River Wear, featuring river valleys, ancient woodlands, and paths along former railway lines. The terrain offers a mix of gentle riverside trails and steeper sections through wooded gorges. This semi-rural area provides a variety of hikes that reflect its natural and industrial heritage.
Best hiking trails around Great Lumley
- The most popular hiking route is Lumley Castle – Lumley Castle Gravel Path loop from Chester-le-Street, a 3.5 miles (5.7 km) trail that takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to complete. This easy walk follows paths along the River Wear with views of the 14th-century castle.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Finchale Priory – Millennium Square, Durham loop from Great Lumley, a moderate 10.8 miles (17.3 km) path. This route combines riverside sections with tracks through farmland and woods.
- Local hikers also love the Riverside Park – Lumley Castle loop from Bournmoor, a 4.2 miles (6.7 km) trail leading through woodland, often completed in about 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Hiking around Great Lumley is defined by its meandering river paths, wooded valleys, and repurposed industrial tramways. The network of trails provides options for both short, easy walks and longer, more moderate hikes.
- The routes in Great Lumley are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,100 reviews. More than 8,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Great Lumley's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.8
(13)
37
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(9)
27
hikers
6.70km
01:45
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.8
(6)
23
hikers
16.9km
04:23
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
32
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(6)
19
hikers
16.7km
04:24
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The park is located on the banks of the River Wear, it features a large children's play area, a seasonal splash pad, ornamental gardens, a skatepark, and sports facilities.
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The medieval Chester New Bridge is located on Black Drive and crosses the River Wear near Chester-le-Street. The bridge was bypassed in 1926 and now serves as a private entrance to the Lambton Estate.
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Lumley Castle is a 14th-century castle in County Durham, England, that has been converted into a 73-bedroom hotel. It overlooks the River Wear and the Durham County Cricket Ground.
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Fantastically beautiful old hotel to spend the night
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nice easy parking, walk accross the bridge over the river and you can either walk left or right giving you two options to walk up or down the river. quite pleasant but can get a bit boggy when it rains so wear the correct footwear. does get busy in the warmer months
3
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This historic bridge spans the River Wear and is a key feature within the Lambton Estate. It was constructed in the 19th century to provide better access across the river linking areas of the estate.
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Benches in changing colours - nice idea, just a bit too bright in the dark.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many walking trails to choose from around Great Lumley?
Yes, there are over 500 routes to explore in the area. These range from easy, short walks to more challenging moderate hikes, so you'll find plenty of options whether you're a beginner or an experienced walker.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Great Lumley?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the mix of scenery, from peaceful riverside paths along the Wear to the quiet, ancient woodlands found in the local denes.
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly walks in the area?
Absolutely. The landscape around Great Lumley is well-suited for beginners, with over 300 easy-rated routes. Many follow the relatively flat paths along the River Wear or explore the grounds around Lumley Castle, offering gentle strolls with lovely views.
Can I take my dog on walks near Great Lumley?
Yes, the area is very dog-friendly. Many trails, especially in nearby country parks, are perfect for walking with a dog. Waldridge Fell Country Park is a popular choice with plenty of paths to explore. As always, please keep your dog under control, especially near farmland and wildlife.
Are there any good circular walks available?
Circular walks are very common in this area. A great example is the Lumley Castle – Chester New Bridge loop from Bournmoor, which provides a longer journey through the varied local landscape. You'll find many other loops that start and end in convenient locations.
What are some good options for a family or child-friendly walk?
For a family outing, consider visiting Hamsterley Forest, which is known for its engaging walking trails, including a popular sculpture trail for children. Another excellent spot is Low Burnhall, managed by the Woodland Trust, which offers multiple trails and free (though limited) parking, making it ideal for a family adventure.
Are there any trails that go through woodlands?
Yes, the region is known for its beautiful wooded valleys, or 'denes'. Many routes pass through these areas, such as the walk through Cocken Woods on the Weardale Way. For a route that specifically highlights the local woods, try the Riverside Sculpture Garden – Lumley Castle loop from Great Lumley.
Where can I find a walk with historical interest?
The area is rich in history. For a walk that combines natural beauty with historical landmarks, consider the Finchale Priory – Millennium Square, Durham loop from Great Lumley. This route takes you past the ruins of Finchale Priory and towards the historic city of Durham.
What is the terrain like on the hikes around Great Lumley?
The terrain is quite varied. You can expect gentle, flat paths along the River Wear, but also some steep climbs and descents as trails enter the wooded gorges and 'denes'. Many paths also follow the gentle gradients of former industrial railway lines, offering a unique glimpse into the area's heritage.
Are there any country parks nearby for walking?
Yes, Waldridge Fell Country Park is a highly-regarded local spot. It's a large area of lowland heath with plenty of paths, including accessible routes for wheelchairs and pushchairs. It's a great place to experience the region's natural landscape.
Does the Weardale Way pass through Great Lumley?
Yes, a section of the Weardale Way long-distance footpath runs through the area. The route here includes a climb through Cocken Woods, tracks across farmland down to the river, and a scenic loop around Lumley Castle, offering a challenging and rewarding experience.
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