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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.

To build your own Itinerary, click Add to Excursion to add an item to your Itinerary basket.

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    This is Durham Blog

  1. Events in the North Pennines AONB
    Events in the North Pennines AONB
    From geology, to a spot of stargazing, there is always a reason to get outdoors.
  2. Walking in the North Pennines
    Walking in the North Pennines
    Seek out natural wonders and spectacular views with walks in the North Pennines
  3. Food and Drink in the North Pennines
    Food and Drink in the North Pennines
    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.
  4. Cycling in the North Pennines
    Cycling in the North Pennines
    Discover some of England's most enjoyable and challenging cycle rides in the North Pennines
  5. Bowlees Visitor Centre
    Bowlees Visitor Centre
    Nestled in beautiful countryside, start your journey of discovery at Bowlees Visitor Centre - gateway to the North Pennines AONB
  6. North Pennines Map
    North Pennines Map
    Find your way around with our handy map of the Dales and north Pennines.
  • Whats on in the Durham Dales

    Events in the North Pennines AONB

    From geology, to a spot of stargazing, there is always a reason to get outdoors.

  • Durhams top 10 views

    Walking in the North Pennines

    Seek out natural wonders and spectacular views with walks in the North Pennines

  • Food and drink in the Durham Dales

    Food and Drink in the North Pennines

    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.

  • Top 10 cycling routes in Durham

    Cycling in the North Pennines

    Discover some of England's most enjoyable and challenging cycle rides in the North Pennines

  • Download the map of the Durham Dales

    North Pennines Map

    Find your way around with our handy map of the Dales and north Pennines.

  • Bowlees Durham

    Bowlees Visitor Centre

    Nestled in beautiful countryside, start your journey of discovery at Bowlees Visitor Centre - gateway to the North Pennines AONB

You are here > Home > Explore Durham > North Pennines AONB and UNESCO Global Geopark

North Pennines AONB and UNESCO Global Geopark

The North Pennines is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and UNESCO Global Geopark, incorporating much of the Durham Dales.

It's a stunning upland landscape of wide open moors, flower-rich hay meadows, dramatic waterfalls, inky-black skies, tumbling rivers, industrial heritage and distinctive wildlife. Here you will find a peaceful, unspoilt landscape with a rich history and vibrant natural beauty.

If you are interested in geology, fancy a spot of stargazing, or simply want to take in great views and spot rare wildlife, there is always something going on. Plus there are a host of craft sessions, nature workshops, walks and family-friendly events taking place at Bowlees Visitor Centre. 

Click here to view the North Pennines AONB Explore map to discover the amazing range of activities you can enjoy. 

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