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North East England

City Of Durham

Easy hikes and walks around City Of Durham

4.7

(247)

2,189

hikers

106

hikes

Easy hiking trails around City Of Durham offer diverse natural landscapes and extensive green spaces. The region is characterized by the scenic Eno River, lush woodlands, and a network of parks and preserves. These areas provide a harmonious blend of natural beauty and accessible outdoor recreation. The landscape features abundant trees and opportunities for bird-watching, making it an ideal destination for gentle walks.

Best easy hiking trails around City Of Durham

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Durham Cathedral & Castle loop, a 1.9 miles (3.1 km) trail that takes about 50 minutes to complete. This route offers views of historic landmarks within the city.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is The Wicker Miner's Wife – Low Burnhall Riverside Trail loop from Butterby Oxbow, an easy 4.1 miles (6.6 km) path. This trail winds along the riverside, showcasing natural scenery and local art installations.
  • Local hikers also love the Durham Bandstand – Durham Cow Statue loop from Durham, a 2.6 miles (4.2 km) trail leading through urban green spaces and along the river, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
  • Hiking around City Of Durham is defined by its river valleys, extensive woodlands, and accessible rail-to-trail paths. The network offers options for various ability levels, with a strong focus on easy hiking trails.
  • The routes in City Of Durham are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 200 reviews. More than 2,000 hikers have used komoot to explore City Of Durham's varied terrain.

Last updated: April 25, 2026

4

hikers

#1.

Durham Cathedral & Castle loop

3.11km

00:51

50m

50m

Easy 1.9-mile loop hike around Durham Cathedral and Castle, offering historic views and riverside paths in just 51 minutes.

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around City Of Durham

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Hiking Collection by

Alex Foxfield

Tips from the Community

Stuart Wilcock
September 7, 2025, View of Durham Cathedral from Prebends Bridge

From the 18th-century stone bridge, you can see Durham Cathedral and Castle on top of a rocky peninsula, wrapped by the River Wear.

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Stuart Wilcock
September 7, 2025, Durham Castle

The cathedral was originally constructed to house the relics of St Cuthbert, a beloved Northumbrian saint. His shrine is a significant pilgrimage destination.

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The Durham Cow statue is situated on the riverside path at The Racecourse, between Baths Bridge and the bandstand.

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This sculpture depicts a traditional miner and pays tribute to the area's rich coal mining history. It's set within the beauty of Low Burnhall and there are lots of enjoyable trails to enjoy featuring art, history and nature.

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The Wicker Miner's Wife is a 15-foot wicker sculpture in Low Burnhall Woods, near Durham, England. It was created by Ruth Thompson and Anna Turnbull in 2012 and depicts a woman with hens and a basket of eggs. The sculpture complements the nearby Willow Miner, both commissioned by the Woodland Trust to encourage exploration of the woods.

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'Reveal' by Richard Cole is a conical column of irregularly textured stone with six shallow niches and a long narrow aperture at its centre. Constructed using centuries-old stone from the Cathedral's former turret, the sculpture was unveiled in 1997, standing under trees opposite the cathedral.

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This stone spiral at Durham's Low Burnhall Woods marks the turning point of the 2.2-mile (3.2km) Riverside Trail walk.

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The Low Burnhall Riverside Trail takes you on a 2.2 mile (3.5 km) journey through an ancient woodland and wildflower meadows that also takes you along the river banks of the River Wear. This 168 acre (68-hectares) woodland is owned by the Woodland Trust.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available in City Of Durham?

City Of Durham offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 70 routes specifically categorized as easy. These trails provide diverse natural landscapes and extensive green spaces for accessible outdoor recreation.

Are there any easy circular hiking routes in City Of Durham?

Yes, many easy trails in City Of Durham are circular. For example, the Durham Castle – Durham Cathedral loop from Durham is an easy 6.1 km path, and the Durham Castle – The Count's House Folly loop from Durham covers 5.9 km, both offering scenic views and returning to your starting point.

What kind of natural scenery can I expect on easy hikes around City Of Durham?

Easy hikes in City Of Durham are characterized by lush woodlands, picturesque river views, and diverse ecosystems. The Eno River State Park, Duke Forest, and various nature preserves offer trails along the scenic Eno River, through abundant trees, and opportunities for bird-watching. You can also find serene wetlands and greenways connecting natural areas.

Are easy hiking trails in City Of Durham suitable for families?

Yes, many easy trails are ideal for families. The American Tobacco Trail, for instance, is a 22.6-mile rail-to-trail project with 12 miles in Durham, offering a flat, scenic path perfect for all ages. Smaller parks like Johnston Mill Nature Preserve also feature well-marked, easy trails suitable for family outings.

Can I bring my dog on easy hikes in City Of Durham?

Many parks and trails in City Of Durham are dog-friendly, though leash laws typically apply. Areas like Eno River State Park and Duke Forest generally welcome leashed dogs on their trails. Always check specific park regulations before you go.

What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along easy hiking trails?

Many easy trails in City Of Durham pass by significant landmarks. You can explore historic sites like Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle on routes like the Durham Cathedral & Castle loop. Other notable attractions include The Count's House Folly and Finchale Priory, which can be incorporated into your easy hiking plans.

Are there easy trails accessible by public transport in City Of Durham?

While many trails are best accessed by car, some urban greenways and parts of the American Tobacco Trail may be reachable via Durham's public transit system. For specific routes, it's recommended to check local bus schedules and trail access points.

What is the best time of year for easy hikes in City Of Durham?

Spring and fall are generally the most pleasant seasons for easy hikes in City Of Durham, offering mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant fall colors. Summer can be warm and humid, but shaded trails along the Eno River provide cooler options. Winter hikes are also possible, with fewer crowds and unique views of the bare woodlands.

Are there any less crowded easy trails in City Of Durham?

For a quieter experience, consider exploring trails within Horton Grove Nature Preserve or Penny's Bend Nature Preserve. These areas offer extensive trail networks through natural landscapes and are often less frequented than more central parks, providing a peaceful escape.

What do other hikers enjoy most about easy hiking in City Of Durham?

The easy hiking trails in City Of Durham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the diverse natural landscapes, the scenic beauty of the Eno River, the well-maintained paths, and the peaceful escape offered by the extensive woodlands and green spaces.

Are there any easy trails with river access for swimming or cooling off?

Yes, Eno River State Park offers several easy trails with access to the Eno River, where visitors can find swimming holes in the spring and summer. The river provides not only picturesque views but also opportunities for refreshing dips during warmer months.

Are there easy trails that offer opportunities for bird-watching?

Absolutely. Many of City Of Durham's natural areas, such as Penny's Bend Nature Preserve and the various trails within Eno River State Park and Duke Forest, are excellent for bird-watching. The region's abundant trees and diverse ecosystems attract a wide variety of bird species.

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