Durham Delight: Durham, Pelaw Wood and the River Weir

Like most Vespucci Signature Hikes, this starts at a station: Durham Station. However, it could just as easily start and finish on Palace Green in front of Durham Cathedral. It is not a long hike but it packs a punch and leaves plenty of time to explore along the way. Top notch cafés at the start, a great restaurant near the finish and outstanding views and interesting places to see along the way. The magnificent cathedral is the linchpin of this walk viewed from every angle possible. We pass university colleges, the Durham Botanic Garden, reminders of the industrial heritage – the River Wear being our guide. There are a couple of short, sharp climbs but the payback is worth it. The bluebells are world class if you get the timing right.
Walking Time: 3 hours
Walking Distance:10kms
Total Ascent:321m
Highest Point:126m

Hike Highlights

  • Take time to visit Durham Cathedral
  • Discover the heart and soul of Durham and its university
  • Savour the River Wear
  • Lots of lovely cafés
  • A good balance of urban and rural landscapes
  • • Plenty of flora and fauna to look out for
  • Pelaw Wood
  • Old Durham Gardens