The best gravel rides in County Durham

County Durham offers a wide selection of gravel biking routes, with over 100 trails available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from leisurely rides to challenging expeditions across diverse terrain.

You'll find a mix of terrain, from the rugged uplands of the North Pennines National Landscape and the rolling hills of the Durham Dales to extensive networks of disused railway paths. Many routes feature mostly paved surfaces, but you can also expect gravel tracks and forest trails, particularly within Hamsterley Forest.

Yes, County Durham has several easier routes. For a gentle ride, consider the Lanchester Valley Path – River Browney loop from Lanchester, which is suitable for all fitness levels and primarily on paved surfaces. The region's repurposed railway paths often provide traffic-free and accessible options.

For a more demanding experience, the Derwent Walk Express Sculpture – Derwent Walk loop from Medomsley is a difficult 34.1-mile path with significant elevation changes. Another challenging option is the Derwenthaugh Country Park Pond – Derwent Walk loop from Durham, a difficult 93.7-kilometer route with over 800 meters of ascent.

Many of the gravel routes in County Durham are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the View of Lanchester Valley – Deerness path loop from Consett, a moderate 43.4 km circular trail.

County Durham's trails offer access to stunning natural features. You can explore areas near the Hurworth Burn Reservoir, or discover the dramatic Cauldron Snout Waterfall in the North Pennines. The View of Lanchester Valley – Derwent Walk loop from Chester-le-Street offers picturesque vistas of the valley.

Yes, Hamsterley Forest is a popular spot for cyclists. The Hamsterley Forest Café – Pooh Stick Bridge loop from South Bedburn is a moderate gravel ride that takes you through this diverse forest, offering dedicated trails and varied ecosystems.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 200 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from the rugged uplands to the quiet forest trails and repurposed railway paths, offering a great variety for all skill levels.

Absolutely. County Durham has effectively repurposed former railway lines into multi-terrain cycling routes. These often provide traffic-free and scenic paths, such as sections of the River Deerness – Deerness path loop from Butterby Oxbow, which utilizes the Deerness path.

Yes, some routes incorporate parts of the National Cycle Network. For instance, the Hurworth Burn Reservoir – National Cycle Network Route 1 loop from Seaham leads through areas near the reservoir and along National Cycle Network Route 1.

Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery as the landscape changes. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially on unpaved sections.

Several routes incorporate the scenic Derwent Walk. The Derwent Walk – Wylam Bridge loop from Shotley Bridge is a moderate 57.8 km route that allows you to experience this popular path.