Maiden Castle Footbridge Over the River Wear
Maiden Castle Footbridge Over the River Wear
Highlight • Bridge
Hiking
4.9
(79)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
Mountain biking
5.0
(1)
Tips
April 29, 2020
Hiking
September 7, 2025
Running
December 2, 2022
Hiking

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Nearby routes
Best routes near Maiden Castle Footbridge Over the River Wear

4.8
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The River Wear & Durham City loop offers a captivating hiking experience, blending natural riverside beauty with the rich history of Durham. This moderate 10.1-mile (16.3 km) route takes about 4 hours and 23 minutes to complete, featuring a varied terrain of unpaved paths, gravel, and city streets. You will enjoy attractive riverside and woodland views, with sections featuring ancient trees and open fields, all while gaining around 709 feet (216 metres) in elevation.
As you hike, you will encounter a mix of surfaces, including some sections that can become quite muddy, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The trail is easily accessible from the city center, and the presence of numerous cafes and pubs in Durham City provides opportunities for refreshments along the way. This makes it a convenient option for a day out, combining outdoor activity with urban amenities.
A major highlight of the River Wear & Durham City loop is the constant, dramatic views of Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, rising majestically above the wooded cliffs. The trail also passes other historic sites like Maiden Castle, an ancient Iron Age hill fort, and various historic bridges. This unique combination of serene riverbanks, tranquil woodlands, and a bustling historic city center truly allows you to step through different worlds in just a few miles.

4.6
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140m
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.6
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333
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02:37
90m
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 80 m
Weather
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Friday 8 May
10°C
4°C
85 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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