4.8
(37)
382
riders
23
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Brandon And Byshottles offer a blend of accessible trails and varied landscapes. The region features scenic river valleys, such as the River Deerness and River Wear, alongside expansive open spaces. Cyclists can explore patchwork farmland, woodland, wetland, and moorland, often on paths that follow former railway lines. The landscape reflects a history of agricultural and industrial development, providing diverse terrain for cycling.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.7
(12)
99
riders
40.7km
02:34
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
47
riders
16.3km
01:02
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
26
riders
28.4km
01:56
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
12
riders
12.5km
00:49
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
8.48km
00:33
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Hard packed former railway, now a popular walkway for cyclists and walkers. A good route to Bishop Auckland and beyond. Can get busy on weekends.
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Willington is a former mining town based on the Brandon to Bishop Auckland disused railway, which use to serve the coal mining industry. It's colliery closed in 1967. There are some local shops and plenty of benches, so serves as a good rest stop.
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The River Deerness runs 11.6 miles (18.7 km) through the picturesque valley of the same name. On its way, it passes Waterhouses, Ushaw Moor and Esh Winning villages before joining the River Browney near Langley Moor. It is thought that the river's name is the oldest place name in County Durham. Deerness is pre-Celtic and means 'rushing or roaring river.'
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There are over 20 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes available around Brandon And Byshottles. These routes offer a variety of distances and difficulty levels, ensuring there's something for every cyclist looking for a peaceful ride.
Yes, Brandon And Byshottles offers several easy, traffic-free routes perfect for beginners and families. For example, the Broompark Picnic Area – Lanchester Valley Path loop from Bearpark is an easy 16 km ride, and the Broompark Picnic Area – River Deerness loop from Durham School is a shorter 8.5 km option, both designed for a relaxed experience.
The no-traffic routes in Brandon And Byshottles traverse a diverse landscape. You can expect to cycle through scenic river valleys like the River Deerness, expansive open spaces, patchwork farmland, and woodlands. The region's industrial past also means you might encounter remnants of old railway lines, now transformed into peaceful cycle paths like the Waskerley Way.
While the routes themselves focus on natural beauty, the wider Brandon And Byshottles area is rich in history. You can find significant attractions like Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a short distance from some routes. Other points of interest include The Count's House Folly and Finchale Priory.
Yes, many of the no-traffic routes in Brandon And Byshottles are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An example is the Broompark Picnic Area – Railway Path loop from Bearpark, which offers a pleasant 12.5 km circular ride.
Parking is generally available at common starting points for these routes. Many routes begin near picnic areas or designated trailheads, such as Broompark Picnic Area, which often provides parking facilities. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended parking locations.
The lengths of the no-traffic routes vary significantly. You can find shorter, easy rides around 8-12 km, such as the Broompark Picnic Area – River Deerness loop. Longer routes, like the Dearness Valley Railway Path – River Deerness loop from Waterhouses, can extend over 40 km, offering a full day's adventure.
The best time to cycle in Brandon And Byshottles is typically from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and the landscapes are in full bloom. The traffic-free paths are generally well-maintained, but checking local weather conditions before your ride is always recommended.
While specific cafes and pubs directly on the traffic-free paths might be limited, many routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find amenities. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify potential stops for refreshments along the way or at the start/end points.
The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Brandon And Byshottles are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the paths, the beautiful natural scenery, and the accessibility for all skill levels, making them a popular choice for a relaxing ride.
Brandon And Byshottles has local bus services that connect to surrounding areas, which may allow access to some route starting points. For routes further afield, you might consider regional train services to Durham, then local connections. It's best to check specific public transport schedules and bike carriage policies for your chosen route.
Many of the traffic-free paths, particularly those on former railway lines like the Waskerley Way, are well-suited for gravel bikes. These paths often feature compacted surfaces that are perfect for a gravel cycling experience, allowing you to explore diverse terrain comfortably.


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