An Introduction to Co Durham

County Durham is the Land of the Prince Bishops. For centuries the powerful Bishops of Durham ruled the County Palatine as a virtually independent state. They had landscape as Durham. From the North Pennines in the west to the North Sea Coast in the east, there are pleasures to suit all tastes. At its heart lies Durham City, small enough to enjoy on foot yettheir own army, nobility, courts and coinage, and they left behind a fascinating legacy which can still be traced today.

Few counties have such variety of  so exceptional that its castle and cathedral are designated a World Heritage Site.

Uncrowded roads lead to unspoilt countryside, including some of the highest, wildest and finest scenery in England. Much of the west of the County, including Teesdale, Weardale and the Derwent Valley, is included in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is perfect country for walking, cycling, riding, wildlife-watching and exploring characterful villages and towns. There are many footpaths and bridleways to explore, including the Pennine Way National Trail and C2C National Cycle Route. Derwent and other reservoirs offer opportunities for sailing, fishing, canoeing and even water-skiing.

Add a fascinating heritage from Mediaeval castles built to defend the North to the cradle of the world’s railways - and you have a largely rural county full of interest and attraction. We hope that you enjoy exploring County Durham and appreciate its many places to visit.

Around 4 miles of the County Durham coastline including, Beacon Hill near Easington and Waren House Gill and Blackhills Gill near Horden, has been acquired by the National Trust and so receives the protection this scenic area deserves. At Seaham and Crimdon the sandy beaches are backed by sand dunes.  Near Lanchester can be found Hall Hill Farm where visitors have the opportunity to see and touch the animals at this family run farm. Also on offer are riverside and woodland walks, a teashop and children’s play area.

Those fond of a stroll in natures beauty will find the Houghall Discovery Trail particularly pleasing. This Discovery Trail, some 2 ½ Miles long, is near Durham City and takes the walker along wooded lanes and tracks with wildlife and historic interest.

If you want to stretch your legs a little more, then consider the Derwent Walk. This walk along a former railway track from Swalwell to Blackhill is around 10 ½ miles long.

Another walk well worth trying is that through woodlands to High Force in Upper Teesdale. Here you can see England’s largest waterfall thunder 70ft into the river Tees. Also in Upper Teesdale is the Bowless Picnic Area This picnic spot is near 4 small waterfalls and has it’s own Visitors Centre

Another popular picnic spot is Carricks Picnic Area at the head of the Derwent Resevoir near Blanchland

Opened in 1996 The Otter Trust’s North Pennines Reserve near Bowes, is a 230 acre wildlife reserve offers visitors the chance to view many rare species of animals and birds in their natural habitat. There is a picnic site, walks, tearoom and gift shop.
At Hamsterley Forest the Forestry Commission welcomes the public into a 2,000 hectare forest which includes: a 4 mile forest drive, orienteering courses, forest walks, visitor centre, cycling and pony trekking. (enquiries 01388 488312)

Rich in wildlife the Low Barnes Nature Reserve at Witton-le-Wear is 50 hectares of woods, lakes and meadow, with 1 ½ miles of nature trail with observatory and hides. The Graham Easby Visitor Centre offers an interprative display of local flora and fauna.

A nature trail and picnic areas are just part of the attraction of Hardwick Hall Country Park at Sedgefield. The park is based on the 18th Century landscaped park for Hardwick Hall. (now a hotel)

Near the coast at Peterlee can be found Castle Eden Dene. This wooded coastal ravine, cut deep into limestone is a National Nature Reserve with 12 miles of footpaths.