The best cycling routes around Hurworth Burn Reservoir
4.5
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718
riders
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Touring cycling around Hurworth Burn Reservoir, located in County Durham, features a network of multi-user trails, many utilizing disused railway lines. These paths, including the Hart to Haswell Walkway, are generally flat and well-surfaced, providing accessible routes for various skill levels. The landscape encompasses the tranquil 21-acre reservoir, surrounded by farmland, pasture, and woodland, offering consistent country views.
Best touring cycling routes around Hurworth Burn Reservoir
- The most popular touring cycling route is Hart to Haswell Walkway – Carr House Sands loop from Wingate, a 25.5 miles (41.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 51 minutes to complete. This route follows sections of disused railway lines, offering a smooth and scenic journey.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is South Hetton Colliery Wheel – South Hetton Colliery Memorial loop from Wingate, a moderate 19.3 miles (31.0 km) path. This route navigates through varied rural landscapes, including former colliery areas.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Hart to Haswell Walkway – Hart to Haswell Walkway loop from Hulam Fen SSSI, an 8.2 miles (13.2 km) trail leading through disused railway lines and surrounding countryside, often completed in about 55 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Hurworth Burn Reservoir is defined by multi-user trails on disused railway lines, tranquil reservoir views, and diverse landscapes of farmland and woodland. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to different ability levels.
- The routes in Hurworth Burn Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 80 reviews. More than 700 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Hurworth Burn Reservoir's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 10, 2026
5.0
(1)
19
riders
41.8km
02:56
220m
220m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
15
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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14
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
5
riders
26.3km
01:46
220m
220m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
34.7km
02:19
200m
200m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
Do not do the bit through Shotton colliery last time I did this the route there was being used as a rubbish tip for most of the way through the village
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This track has recently been tarmacked from "South Hetton" to "Shotton" the restriction in the photo is not there now
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Check out the names and dates of former miners, engraved into the bricks of the monument
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The Hart to Haswell walkway is a multi-user trail that follows a disused railway line. It's flat and well surfaced so suitable for most users.
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A big and mostly quiet beach, situated at the end of the Durham Heritage Coast
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Hurworth Burn Reservoir?
There are over 80 touring cycling routes around Hurworth Burn Reservoir, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes more than 700 times.
What is the typical terrain like for touring cycling in this area?
The area around Hurworth Burn Reservoir is known for its multi-user trails, many of which utilize disused railway lines. These paths, such as the Castle Eden Walkway and the Hart to Haswell Walkway, are generally flat and well-surfaced, providing a smooth and scenic journey away from traffic. Some sections may also have paved surfaces.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the region offers a good selection of routes suitable for beginners and families. There are 26 easy touring cycling routes, characterized by their generally flat and well-surfaced terrain, making them accessible for various skill levels. An example is the Hart to Haswell Walkway – Hart to Haswell Walkway loop from Hulam Fen SSSI, which is 8.2 miles long.
Are there more challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, there are 23 difficult touring cycling routes around Hurworth Burn Reservoir. These routes often cover longer distances and may include more varied terrain. A challenging option is the Hart to Haswell Walkway – Carr House Sands loop from Wingate, which spans 25.5 miles.
What kind of scenery can I expect while cycling around Hurworth Burn Reservoir?
Cyclists can enjoy consistently pleasant country views across the tranquil 21-acre reservoir, surrounded by diverse landscapes of farmland, pasture, and woodland. The scenery also includes pretty streams and peaceful woodland trails, with opportunities for wildlife observation, including various birds like swans, geese, ducks, and kingfishers.
Is there parking available for cyclists at Hurworth Burn Reservoir?
Yes, there are car parks available for visitors, such as the one located at the southern end of Hurworth Burn Reservoir, making it convenient for cyclists to access the trails.
Are there any places to eat or drink near the cycling routes?
Yes, for refreshments, the Black Bull pub in nearby Trimdon Village is a good option. It is dog-friendly and serves food and real ales in a charming village setting, perfect for a post-ride stop.
Can I bring my dog on the cycling routes?
Many of the multi-user trails in the area, particularly those on disused railway lines, are generally dog-friendly. Always ensure your dog is kept under control, especially around wildlife and other users. The Black Bull pub in Trimdon Village is also dog-friendly.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the South Hetton Colliery Wheel – South Hetton Colliery Memorial loop from Wingate is a popular moderate circular route covering 19.3 miles.
What are some notable places to explore near the cycling routes?
Beyond the reservoir, you can explore Wynyard Woodland Park, which features additional woodland trails, a wildflower meadow, and even a planetarium and observatory. Heading north on the Castle Eden Walkway can also lead you to the popular Castle Eden Dene, a National Nature Reserve.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes around Hurworth Burn Reservoir?
The touring cycling routes around Hurworth Burn Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 80 reviews. Cyclists often praise the smooth, traffic-free paths along disused railway lines and the tranquil country views.
How long are the touring cycling routes typically?
The routes vary in length to suit different preferences. You can find shorter loops like the Hart to Haswell Walkway – Hart to Haswell Walkway loop from Hulam Fen SSSI at 8.2 miles, or longer, more challenging rides such as the Carr House Sands – Hart to Haswell Walkway loop from Hulam Fen SSSI, which is 22 miles long.
Most popular routes around Hurworth Burn Reservoir
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