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Welcome to the Itinerary Planner. Use this tool to build your own journey or choose from an exciting range of specially selected tours.

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    This is Durham Blog

  1. What’s on in the Durham Dales?
    What’s on in the Durham Dales?
    Plan your break around these great events taking place in the Durham Dales.
  2. Durham Dales Map
    Durham Dales Map
    Find your way around with our handy map of the Dales.
  3. Things to do in the Durham Dales
    Things to do in the Durham Dales
    Seek out natural wonders while walking or cycling in this breathtaking area, discover fascinating museums and much more along the way.
  4. Accommodation in the Durham Dales
    Accommodation in the Durham Dales
    Find your perfect place to stay in the Durham Dales, from country house hotels to luxury cottages, B&Bs, hostels and caravan and campsites.
  5. Food and Drink in the Durham Dales
    Food and Drink in the Durham Dales
    You’ll be spoilt for choice when it’s time to refuel during your visit. Tuck into a hearty lunch by the roaring fire in a country pub or dine out in style at award-winning countryside eateries.
  6. Nature and Wildlife Calendar
    Nature and Wildlife Calendar
    Find out where and when you can see Durham’s wonderful flora and fauna.

You are here > Home > Explore Durham > Durham Dales

Durham Dales

The Durham Dales, incorporating Teesdale and Weardale is a peaceful and tranquil landscape of moors and hills, valleys and meandering rivers, dotted with picturesque villages and market towns.


Part of the North Pennines National Landscape and UNESCO Global Geopark, this special place is the perfect choice for your next holiday of exploration.

Walking and cycling are great ways to explore the Durham Dales, where you’ll find some of the best hiking and biking routes in the country. Enjoy breathtaking views and seek out tasty tearooms and cafes in the welcoming towns and villages along the way, including Wolsingham - an official 'Walkers are Welcome' Town.

Head to Hamsterley Forest and explore 2,000 hectares of woodland or let the chain take the strain on an electric bike journey around this beautiful area. Don’t miss the perfect photo opportunity at High Force – on of England’s most impressive waterfalls. Hop onboard Weardale Railway for a picturesque train jounrey through the stunning landscapes of the Durham Dales. 

There’s plenty more to see and do in this area too, from historic castles to award-winning museums and galleries, the Durham Dales is a great place to visit.

When it’s time to refuel, you’ll find great places to eat along the way, from tempting treats in market town tearooms, to hearty countryside meals in traditional country pubs, it’s all on the menu in the Durham Dales. Plus, our two food trails will take your taste buds around the dales and North Pennines.

For more local visitor information on Weardale and Teesdale, take a look at the Discover Weardale, Explore Teeesdale or Visit Gainford websites.

For a more information use the links above, and for on-the-ground guides, take a look at the guides to Teesdale and Weardale guides ont he North Pennines National Landscape website.

Towns & Villages

  • Barnard Castle

    Barnard Castle

    Find Out More

  • Middleton Teesdale

    Middleton-in-Teesdale

    Find Out More

  • St Johns Chapel

    St John's Chapel

    Find Out More

  • Explore Stanhope in Durham

    Stanhope

    Find Out More

  • Wolsingham

    Wolsingham

    Find Out More

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