Walking in County Durham – Discover the Wild Beauty of the North Pennines AONB
If you’re searching for big skies, quiet trails and landscapes that make you slow down and breathe a little deeper, you’ll find it in County Durham — particularly within the breathtaking North Pennines AONB on the doorstep of Eden Grange.
Often called England’s last wilderness, the North Pennines isn’t polished or crowded. It’s raw moorland, tumbling waterfalls, ancient mining history and miles of paths where the loudest sound is usually the wind or curlew.
Whether you want a gentle riverside stroll or a full-day hike across heather-covered fells, this is walking country at its finest.
Why the North Pennines is Perfect for Walking
The North Pennines is a UNESCO Global Geopark — and once you step onto the fells, you immediately understand why.
Here you’ll find:
- Vast open access land — roam for miles without seeing crowds
- Clearly marked public footpaths and historic routes
- Incredible seasonal changes (purple heather in late summer is unforgettable)
- Wildlife including red grouse, curlew, buzzards and hares
- Traditional villages with welcoming pubs and cafés
Unlike many walking destinations, this landscape feels genuinely untouched — not curated for tourists, but lived in for centuries.
Must-Walk Routes in the Area
High Force & Low Force Waterfalls
The walk between High Force and Low Force is one of the most rewarding short walks in Northern England.
Follow the River Tees through ancient woodland and dramatic rock formations before reaching High Force — England’s most powerful waterfall.
Distance: 2–4 miles depending on route
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best time: Autumn or after rainfall for full drama
Hamsterley Forest Trails
For gentler walking, Hamsterley Forest offers well-maintained trails through pine forest and open viewpoints.
Perfect for:
- Families
- Dog walkers
- Relaxed weekend strolls
- Winter walks when the fells are harsh
You can tailor the distance from a short café loop to a full day exploration.
Weardale Moorland Walks
The valley around Weardale and Stanhope gives you the classic North Pennines experience — big landscapes, sheep-grazed pastures and trails climbing gently onto open fell.
You don’t need a strict route here. Often the best days come from simply following public footpaths and seeing where they lead.
When to Visit
- Spring: Lambs in the fields, longer days and perfect walking weather
- Summer: Long daylight hours and blooming meadows
- Late Summer: Purple heather across the moors (the iconic season)
- Autumn: Golden forests and misty mornings
- Winter: Stark, beautiful and wonderfully quiet — but come prepared
Every season feels completely different, which is why walkers return again and again.
A Different Kind of Walking Destination
The North Pennines doesn’t shout for attention like national parks — and that’s its magic.
You’ll find space here. Real space.
Space to think, to wander, and to enjoy walking the way it used to be: simple, peaceful and unhurried.
If you love walking not just for exercise but for atmosphere, you may discover this becomes your favourite corner of England.
More walks can be found here.
Lace up your boots — the fells are waiting.