The best walks and hikes around Lynesack And Softley
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3,996
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hikes
Hiking around Lynesack And Softley offers a variety of trails through diverse landscapes. The region features areas like Hamsterley Forest and includes natural elements such as waterfalls and becks. The terrain generally includes forested sections and open areas, with some routes passing through designated sites of special scientific interest.
Best hiking trails around Lynesack And Softley
- The most popular hiking route is Three Becks Walk loop in Hamsterley Forest — North Pennines, a 5.0 miles (8.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 17 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores the varied woodland and water features within Hamsterley Forest.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is View of the Felled Forest Area – Blackling Hole Waterfalls loop from Frog Wood Bog SSSI, a moderate 5.2 miles (8.4 km) path. This trail offers views of forest areas and includes the Blackling Hole Waterfalls.
- Local hikers also love the Viewpoint – Blackling Hole Waterfalls loop from Blackling Hole waterfall, a 3.8 miles (6.2 km) trail leading through areas with viewpoints and waterfalls, often completed in about 1 hour 41 minutes.
- Hiking around Lynesack And Softley is defined by its forests, waterfalls, and varied natural landscapes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Lynesack And Softley are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 500 reviews. More than 3,900 hikers have used komoot to explore Lynesack And Softley's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
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8.01km
02:17
190m
190m
The Three Becks Walk loop in Hamsterley Forest offers a moderate hiking experience, covering 5.0 miles (8.0 km) with 624 feet (190 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this varied route in about 2 hours and 17 minutes. As you hike, you will wind through beautiful mixed woodlands of pines, larches, beech, and oak, following the vigorous, peat-stained Bedburn Beck. Keep an eye out for the unique Green Man sculpture along the forest drive, depicting the faces of this mythical forest dweller.
While generally accessible, some sections of the trail are narrow, rougher, and feature steeper ascents and descents, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. The terrain includes gravel paths, natural surfaces, and stony forest paths with knotty conifer roots, which can become mucky depending on the weather. The route is well-waymarked with white arrows on an orange background, but some hikers recommend carrying a map from the visitor center due to occasional inconsistent signage. Autumn is a particularly stunning time to visit, as the beech and birch trees display golden and yellow hues.
This trail is considered the longest and most rewarding of the Bedburn Walks within Hamsterley Forest, a vast 2,000-hectare woodland. You will pass the ruins of Metcalf's House, an old coaching inn with stables, situated on a historic drover's road. The forest is rich in biodiversity, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as roe deer, adders, and salmon, and observe wood ant nests. The route also crosses two roads with vehicular access, adding to its varied character.
4.1
(8)
85
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(7)
80
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
24
hikers
10.2km
02:50
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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hikers
5.08km
01:21
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
great for food and drink before or after your visit to the forest
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Hamsterley cafe is a great place for pot ot and sandwiches
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»A delicious Schildbürgerstreich. Julia Donaldson has put the adventure into beautiful rhymes, while master illustrator Axel Scheffler conjures up his funny, big-eyed creatures in the landscape. A stunning book that proves that with courage and intelligence you can give even dangerous lies legs!« (Text from: spielen + lernen)
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These ruins are all that remains of the building that stood here before: an old coaching inn with stables.
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Hamsterley Forest is a large woodland oasis in the Durham Dales. It’s a fantastic place for wildlife watching, dark sky gazing and mountain biking. The visitor centre is the gateway to the forest, and includes a cafe. It was part of a prisoner of war camp during the Second World War.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Lynesack And Softley?
Lynesack And Softley offers a wide selection of hiking trails, with over 85 routes available for exploration. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks through diverse landscapes.
Are there easy or family-friendly hiking options in Lynesack And Softley?
Yes, the region is well-suited for beginners and families, with 49 easy routes. An excellent option is the Viewpoint – Blackling Hole Waterfalls loop from Blackling Hole waterfall, which is 3.8 miles (6.2 km) and features scenic viewpoints and waterfalls.
Are there any circular walks in Lynesack And Softley?
Many of the trails in Lynesack And Softley are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the popular Three Becks Walk loop in Hamsterley Forest is a moderate 5.0-mile (8.0 km) circular trail.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on hikes?
The hiking trails in Lynesack And Softley are characterized by their natural beauty, including extensive forested sections, picturesque becks, and notable waterfalls. The View of the Felled Forest Area – Blackling Hole Waterfalls loop is a great example, offering views of forest areas and the Blackling Hole Waterfalls.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Lynesack And Softley?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 500 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied woodland scenery, the tranquility of the becks, and the well-maintained paths within areas like Hamsterley Forest.
Are there any challenging trails for experienced hikers?
While the majority of routes are easy to moderate, there are 4 more challenging trails for those seeking a greater test. These routes typically feature longer distances or more significant elevation changes within the varied terrain of the region.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions near the hiking trails?
Beyond the trails, you can explore several nearby attractions. Consider visiting the historic Whorlton Suspension Bridge, the Barnard Castle Market Cross, or the impressive The Bowes Museum. For a scenic view, The Elephant Trees offer a unique viewpoint.
Is it possible to find a pub or cafe near the hiking routes?
Yes, after your hike, you can find places to relax and refuel. The Hamsterley Forest Café is a convenient option located within Hamsterley Forest, a central point for many trails in the region.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Lynesack And Softley?
The region offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, and even winter can be beautiful with crisp air and potential frosty landscapes, though some paths might be muddy.
Are there any specific trails that feature waterfalls?
Yes, waterfalls are a notable feature in the area. The Blackling Hole Waterfalls loop from Low Redford Meadows SSSI is an easy 3.1-mile (5.1 km) route that specifically highlights these natural cascades.
How long do hikes typically take in Lynesack And Softley?
Hike durations vary significantly depending on the route's length and your pace. For instance, an easy 3.8-mile (6.2 km) trail like the Viewpoint – Blackling Hole Waterfalls loop can take around 1 hour 41 minutes, while longer moderate routes might take over 3 hours.
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