From family-friendly rides to challenging treks, there are plenty of cycling routes for all to enjoy in County Durham.
With its rolling hills and breathtaking natural beauty, County Durham is a wonderful spot for cyclists to explore, with a range of routes to discover. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly bike ride or challenging yourself to something more difficult, you're sure to find the perfect route to help you embrace the stunning scenery the region has to offer.
If you're looking for the ideal base for your cycling holiday, Heather View Holiday Park offers a fabulous location in the Durham Dales, with fantastic on-site facilities to explore and a range of cosy self-catered accommodation. You'll settle in and feel right at home the moment you arrive, ready for your cycling adventure in County Durham.
The UK's most popular challenging route, with 137 miles stretching through the Northern Lake District before climbing the Pennines and descending to the railway paths of the Durham Dales. If you're looking for a route to enjoy both coast and countryside, this is the choice for you.
At 248 miles, this route may be challenging, but the fantastic views along the way definitely make the trek worth it. You'll cycle from Walney Island to Wearmouth, either through Bishop Auckland or Hamsterley Forest, before heading to Whitby, making it ideal for exploring.
With over 2,000 hectares of forest and 40 miles of way-marked trails to explore, Hamsterley Forest has something to give everyone a fantastic cycling trip. Whether you're seeking a family day out or an adrenaline fix, there's a fantastic opportunity around every corner.
This route is 24 miles long and suitable for all skill levels, making it a fantastic choice to add to your County Durham cycling itinerary. You'll enjoy glorious countryside scenery along the way, pass the iconic Beamish Museum, and circle back to your start point.
A scenic bike ride is not only a wonderful way to explore your surroundings, but it's also a great opportunity to embrace fresh air and get some exercise. County Durham is home to plenty of family-friendly cycling routes, giving you plenty of options, whether you fancy a short trip or longer excursion. Whichever route you choose, you're sure to have a fabulous family day out and make memories to last a lifetime.
The multi-user path at Derwent Reservoir offers 2 miles along the waterside for walkers and cyclists to enjoy lovely views. With small bays, wild flower meadows and beautiful woodland to explore, it's the perfect spot for a family day out with your bikes.
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This 4 mile route between Bishop Auckland and Spennymoor takes you along the former railway line, passing New Coundon and Bichester for a fabulous family-friendly cycle. If you're after a route with a touch of history behind it, this is the one for you.
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This smooth figure-of-8 trail is just over 5 miles long and offers fantastic views of Hamsterley Forest. This is the perfect route for cycling beginners, or those who fancy an easy ride with plenty to see.
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This 11 mile route mainly follows the road, making it a fabulous choice for a family-friendly bike ride. The route takes you past Auckland Palace and Binchester Roman Fort, so you can embrace some of the area's iconic history along the way.
Explore the routeIf you're looking for something a little more challenging, County Durham has plenty of longer-distance cycling treks to tackle. With options taking you along railway paths, over rolling hills and through lucious woodland, there's plenty of opportunity to discover some of the region's best scenery, all from the comfort of your bike.
A 54 mile route giving you the opportunity to take in Durham City, Bishop Auckland and much more. As well as exploring some of the area's most breathtaking scenery, you'll be able to challenge yourself to a range of surfaces both on and off-road.
This 24 mile route follows the line of the former Stanhope and Tyne Railway, Britain's first commercial railway that was closed in 1985. With plenty to see along the way, including Hell Hole Wood, Beamish Museum and part of the Great North Community Forest, it's a wonderful choice to explore more of the local area.
A 31 mile circular route offering a challenge through the North Pennines. With immaculate scenery and blissful solitude, the loop is a fabulous way to explore, taking you past Stanhope's iconic sights.
At just over 13 miles, this isn't the longest cycling route, but it definitely promises a challenge. With steep climbs, water crossings and multiple sections of singletrack, this is a particularly exhilarating ride, and you'll be rewarded with epic views at the peak.
This 65 mile circular route stretches the length of Weardale with particularly sharp climbs for some breathtaking views. Heather View makes the perfect base to tackle this route.
A 9 mile route from Stanhope passes through a varied landscape, from upland sheep farms to heather moorland. The location of this route makes it the perfect choice for guests at Heather View.
This is a fabulous way to test your skills before heading out on a longer or more difficult route. With features including drops, step ups and balances, you'll be more than ready for a challenge.
A 29 mile loop taking you from Stanhope train station past the Rookhope Arch and Parkhead Station Cafe, offering glorious views of the North Pennines along the way. Perfect for those staying at Heather View.
Offering a wide range of mountain bike hire, as well as training courses and guided rides, Cycle4Adventure is perfect for those looking for an off-road adventure in County Durham.
Cycle4Adventure
If you fancy giving an e-bike a go, Velo Electric have got you covered. Whether you're heading out on a family ride or a longer excursion, there's something to suit everyone.
Velo Electric
There are so many cycling routes around County Durham, from short trails to multi-day challenges, that you'll be spoilt for choice.
Heather View Holiday Park is a fantastic base for your cycling holiday in County Durham, offering a great location in Stanhope alongside fabulous on-site facilities, beautiful scenery and a range of cosy accommodation for you to relax after a long day, some even including hot tubs. Whether you're planning a family holiday, an outdoorsy couples getaway or a solo trip, it's the perfect spot for you.
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