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If you want some fresh air and a moment of peace after the madness of the festive period, there is plenty of outdoor space to explore in County Durham.
From easy walking to some routes with a little bit more of a distance, there is a path to suit everyone.
Time to wrap up warm, grab a hot drink and see what your local parks and woodland have to offer.
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Here is a selection of some of the best Boxing Day walks across County Durham according to AllTrails.
Some of the best Boxing Day walks in County Durham
Barnard Castle and the River Tees
Distance: 6.3km
Difficulty: Easy
Route: Circular
“This is a lovely circular trail from the market town of Barnard Castle in County Durham, taking in a mix of natural and historic sights.
“At first glance, the trail seems to be a simple stroll along the river and back, but in fact there’s plenty of extra interest. There are several old mills, churches, an enormous chateau, the ruins of an old abbey and Barnard Castle itself to enjoy along the way.
“The route is relatively flat with just a few gentle slopes and one steeper but short slope up to the castle. The trail follows a mixture of tarmac pavements and riverside paths through grazing pastures and woodland. The latter can get fairly muddy and can be very uneven underfoot. Appropriate footwear is advised.”
Seaham and Beacon Point via Durham Coastal Path
Distance: 6.6km
Difficulty: Easy
Route: Circular
One for those who love to spot plenty of wildlife, AllTrails adds: “This is a beautiful circular coastal trail close to the town of Seaham in County Durham taking in lovely views, scenic paths, and historic sites as you make your way along.
Why Do We Celebrate Boxing Day?
“The trail begins just south of the town at Nose’s Point, once the site of a colliery but now a beautiful nature reserve, and takes in a beautiful stretch of the Durham Heritage Coast.
“Along the way there is a range of geological features including a couple of lovely beaches, flower-rich chalk grasslands, a chalk sea stack and a deep woodland gorge. Within the woodland gorge you will enjoy a fine view of an impressive viaduct and the remains of old lime kilns.”
Wolsingham to Tunstall Reservoir
Distance: 12.6km
Difficulty: Moderate
Route: Circular
“Great walk, with everything you might want – river, woods, reservoir, farmland, fields and amazing views. Easy to navigate as the footpaths are well signposted.
“Lots of wildlife to look out for next to the reservoir, which in itself is a great setting for a break and is also the half way point. Park at Demesne Mill Picnic Site, which is free.”
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Wear River and Broom Hill
Distance: 5.3km
Difficulty: Easy
Route: Circular
“This is a lovely trail along the edge of Durham, leading you along the River Wear, through Pelaw Woods Local Nature Reserve, and to Old Durham.
“Start this trail along Green Lane and make your way onto the riverside path. Enjoy the scenery along the River Wear and cross the bridge to continue along its northern bank.
“This leads you into the Pelaw Woods Local Nature Reserve, which is home to an abundance, with various paths going deeper into the woodland if you wish to extend the route.”
AllTrails adds: “The route is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. The trail is mostly paved, but some of the unpaved sections can be muddy at times, so come prepared.”
Beamish Park and Causey Arch
Distance: 6.6km
Difficulty: Moderate
Route: Circular
If you’re looking for something a little more challenging on Boxing Day, the Beamish Park and Causey Arch circular walk might be ideal for you.
AllTrails comments: “This is a circular walk from the small village of Causey in County Durham. The walk follows farm tracks and local lanes to reach the nearby woodland within Beamish Park before crossing open countryside to reach the beautiful gorge with Causey Burn flowing at its base.
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“Here, you will have a chance to explore some of Britain’s most important industrial heritage, visiting Causey Arch, the oldest surviving single-arch railway bridge.”
AllTrails says “good boots” are a must when it comes to footwear as there is a mixture of lanes, tracks and paths – some of which can get muddy.
Walkers should also be aware there are a couple of “steady climbs and descents” plus an “optional steeper section into the gorge bottom.”
The outdoor experts say there are several sections of walking along roads and whilst the main roads have pavements, the smaller roads do not so take care of traffic at these points.
You can find out more about each walk in County Durham on the AllTrails website.
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