County Durham has some of the most beautiful countryside in Britain. It is home to a massive variety of plants and animals and the area has a fascinating historical and geological heritage.
Come and explore with us, through the variety of activities:
- guided walks
- health walks
- activity days
- fun educational events
- cycle rides
- conservation days
- bug hunts
- and much more.
Events and walks are open to everyone.
Countryside events
Details of upcoming countryside events and cycle rides across County Durham, are available below:
Community Conservation Scrub bashing event at Waldridge Fell.pdf (2 pages, 5707kb)
Community Conservation - Tree planting event at Hurworth Burn.pdf (2 pages, 3610kb)
Guided walks
You can download 'Country Durham', our publication containing six months of guided walks and countryside events. Please be aware that this is a large document, and may take some time to download:
Country Durham Mar 10 - Sept 10.pdf (40 pages, 8605kb)
Health Walks
Health Walks are a series of led walks which are specifically designed to improve people's health. Information about Health Walks across County Durham can be downloaded below:
Footsteps to Fitness 2010 - front cover.pdf (1 page, 195kb)
Footsteps to Fitness 2010 - inside cover.pdf (1 pages, 163kb)
Footsteps to Fitness - physical activity questionnaire.pdf (1 pages, 1277kb)
Next Steps 2010 - front cover.pdf (1 pages, 206kb)
Next Steps 2010 - inside cover.pdf (1 pages, 174kb)
Health walks in and around Sedgefield.pdf (1 pages, 36kb)
A series of led walks in the Wear Valley area.pdf (2 pages, 6319kb)
Free cycle hire
Free bikes, in a variety of sizes, and safety equipment are available at the following locations:
To use the bikes, we need 24 hours notice and proof of identity. More details are available from the leisure centres.
More information
For more countryside information, please click on the links below:
Visiting Durham's countryside and coast
Surveys for protected species and other wildlife
Countryside volunteering
Environmental education
Hardwick Park
Countryside publications
Other sources of information
Walking the Way to Health Initiative
Walking routes UK
Public Rights of Way
Visit Durham
Leisure Works Derwentside - health walks
Landscape and ecology
