Skip to content
Breadcrumb icon | The 10 best dog walks in County Durham | Our Journal
Dog Walks

County Durham

The 10 best dog walks in County Durham

07/06/2024

If you’re looking to get outdoors in County Durham with your furry travelling companion, we have compiled this list of the best walking routes, adventurous trails and rest stops for you and your dog to explore. We have two holiday parks in County Durham: Heather View and Kingfisher.

Check out our dog-friendly holidays in County Durham.

1. Teesdale Way

  • Mixed terrain 
  • Farmland and moorland
  • 92 miles long with 14 sections
A visit to County Durham would not be complete without a walk through the Teesdale Way. At an impressive 92 miles long, The Teesdale way can be a challenging trail or a less strenuous stroll, depending on how adventurous you’re feeling. Following the banks of the River Tees, the route is perfect for those wanting to get in touch with nature and discover awe-inspiring views that can only be appreciated fully in person. It can be split into various sections to offer a selection of routes with various sights to marvel. The route starts at Dufton in Cumbria, passes through County Durham at Cauldron Snout (where you may wish to begin your journey, ideally located close to our holiday parks) and Teesside, to then end by the North Sea coast.

2. Hamsterley Forest

  • Choose from four walking routes
  • 4.5 miles on average
  • Moderate difficulty
  • Relatively flat
Just under an hour’s drive from Heather View, Hamsterley Forest offers a selection of fascinating forest trails that are great for exploring the woodland. The forest is well suited to families and couples alike. You'll find ‘Gruffalo’ sculptures and family activity trails, or more peaceful routes perfect for dog walkers. For those travelling with a dog, we recommend the Spurlswood Valley walk which is away from the crowds and offers spectacular views of waterfalls! The walk is also fantastic for watching wildlife, where you may spot roe deer, a range of colourful English birds and salmon leaping upstream.

3. Weardale Way

  • 74 miles with ten sections
  • Walk through old limestone quarries
  • Off road sections of terrain
The Weardale Way winds and turns for around 74 miles and is perfect for those wishing to take in the sights of the beautiful rural landscapes and quaint villages, brimming with history. The route is split into various walks, some of which are located close to the park for easy access, meaning you can make the most of your day by cutting down travel. The closest walk to the park begins at Stanhope and ends at White Kirkley (unless you want to explore even farther!) which your dog will love, with varying woodland and beautiful greenery. The walks can be hilly, so your best walking boots are recommended!

4. Cow Green Reservoir

  • Moorland and waterfall
  • Parking nearby
  • Rugged terrain in places
Around just 30 minute’s drive from Heather View, Cow Green reservoir makes another interesting and easy to access walk. The reservoir reaches for around 2 miles and was built between 1967 and 1971 to supply the industries of Teesside. The area also lies at the centre of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where you can explore Mother Nature’s stunning scenery. The trail starts at Wheelhead Sike car park which then leads you onto either a short 3-mile stroll or a more active 7.5-mile looping walk. If you want to combine walks, the Cow Green Reservoir can be reached from a selection of the Teesdale Way routes.

5. Wolsingham and Thornley Memorial Circular Route

  • 5.6 miles
  • Hilly terrain
  • Fields, tracks, and tree-lined paths

Here is a walking route that you and your pooch are both sure to love. The walk begins with a hilly part, then levels off as you reach the River Wear. Marvel at incredible views of the Durham Dales on this walk, and you might even spot a variety of wildlife. What's more, dogs are allowed off lead on sections of this route, so they can run and explore to their heart's content. 

Image source.

6. Dipton Circular Walk

  • 3.2 miles
  • Low difficulty
  • Woodland and farmland

For a leisurely stroll with your pooch by your side, head to the quaint village of Dipton. You'll pass a variety of sights on this walk, from churches to farms, before arriving back in the village. While you're there, why not stop for a delicious hot drink in a local cafe?

Image source.

7. High Force and Low Force walk

  • Woodland and waterfalls
  • Mixed terrain
  • 2.8 miles

You can expect to see one of the most spectacular waterfalls in England whilst on this walk. Your dog can accompany you through the scenic woodland and past the awe-inspiring waterfalls. Plus, you might be lucky enough to see some rare flora and fauna on this trail, which passes through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

8. Tees Railway Path

  • Mostly flat route
  • 6.2 miles
  • Low level of difficulty

Traverse the path alongside an old railway line, and spot some breathtaking natural views, a Victorian viaduct, as well as passing some picturesque villages. If you fancy breaking the walk up a bit, you can dip in and out of the nearby villages. 

Image source.

dog on sandy beach

9. North Gare Beach

  • Flat, sandy terrain
  • Low level difficulty

If you're looking to go a bit further afield and explore the coast, this dog-friendly beach is the perfect choice, and is 40 miles from Heather View. Park at the end of the road, then explore the dunes, as well as the North Gate Pier.

10. Waldridge Fell and Cong Burn Woods

  • Hilly and forest
  • Moderate difficulty
  • 8 miles

This pleasant walking route is blanketed in lovely scenery, including colourful flowers in the summer, and bright orange leaves in the autumn. The clear path allows you and your pooch to stretch your legs, though we recommend keeping them on the lead when walking next to the river.

Image source.

If you are looking to stay in this beautiful area, look no further than breaks at Heather View. We have fantastic facilities and great value accommodation. Keep up to date with the latest holiday offers by signing up to our mailing list below.

Sign up to our newsletter

Related content

5 ways to holiday in Northern England

Whether you’re looking for chilled-out relaxation, action-packed fun, or something a little different, Northern England could be home to your perfect UK holiday destination.

Read the blog
Alnwick Castle

Places to visit in Northern England

Northern England is full of beautiful and fun filled places to visit. Our north east parks offer a fantastic mix of countryside to explore and coastal towns to discover nearby.

Read the blog

12 tips for travelling with your dog

Many people want to go on holiday or travel to their holiday home with the whole family, including their dog! Read our handy guide to making the most out of dog friendly holidays in the UK.

Read the blog

Get in touch

Our friendly team are waiting to hear from you. Check out our office hours

Enquire about Holidays Enquire about Ownership
Phone icon Call 03300 535 524
Binoculars icon
Award-Winning UK Holiday Parks