The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around City Of Durham
4.7
(247)
2,189
hikers
19
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails around City Of Durham offer diverse landscapes, from riverside paths to dense hardwood forests. The region is characterized by its extensive trail networks, including sections along the Eno River and former railway lines. Hikers can explore varied terrain, including gentle river walks and routes with moderate elevation gains.
Best dog friendly hiking trails around City Of Durham
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is The Wicker Miner's Wife – Low Burnhall Riverside Trail loop from…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.6
(13)
51
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(14)
49
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
3.5
(2)
19
hikers
3.64km
01:02
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
4.35km
01:12
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
4.46km
01:14
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The cathedral was originally constructed to house the relics of St Cuthbert, a beloved Northumbrian saint. His shrine is a significant pilgrimage destination.
0
0
This sculpture depicts a traditional miner and pays tribute to the area's rich coal mining history. It's set within the beauty of Low Burnhall and there are lots of enjoyable trails to enjoy featuring art, history and nature.
1
0
The Wicker Miner's Wife is a 15-foot wicker sculpture in Low Burnhall Woods, near Durham, England. It was created by Ruth Thompson and Anna Turnbull in 2012 and depicts a woman with hens and a basket of eggs. The sculpture complements the nearby Willow Miner, both commissioned by the Woodland Trust to encourage exploration of the woods.
1
0
This stone spiral at Durham's Low Burnhall Woods marks the turning point of the 2.2-mile (3.2km) Riverside Trail walk.
0
1
The Low Burnhall Riverside Trail takes you on a 2.2 mile (3.5 km) journey through an ancient woodland and wildflower meadows that also takes you along the river banks of the River Wear. This 168 acre (68-hectares) woodland is owned by the Woodland Trust.
2
0
St Oswald's is an Anglican church in the centre of Durham.
0
0
A television series that I can recommend without reservation presents the culture-loving viewer (in German) with remarkable examples of human creativity from many countries around the world. What they all have in common is that they have been given "world heritage" status by UNESCO. One of the contributions documents: "Like a grey rock, Durham Cathedral, located in the north-east of England near the Scottish border, towers over the roofs of the city. Half church and half bastion, this building is an impressive example of early Romanesque church architecture in England. The three-storey Anglo-Norman cathedral with a 2 m thick arcade wall and Norman castle complex, the later seat of the bishops of Durham, was declared a cultural monument." This film can be found in the ARD media library under the following link: https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/die-kathedrale-von-durham-grossbritannien-folge-138/3sat/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MTY4ODA2
2
1
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in the City of Durham?
There are over 15 dog-friendly hiking trails around the City of Durham, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion. These include routes suitable for all skill levels, from easy riverside strolls to more challenging woodland paths.
Are there any easy dog-friendly walks suitable for families or older dogs?
Yes, the City of Durham offers several easy dog-friendly walks perfect for families or dogs needing a gentler pace. An excellent option is The Wicker Miner Sculpture loop from Butterby Oxbow, which is an easy 3.4 km route. Another pleasant, shorter option is the Millennium Square, Durham – Durham Castle loop from Durham, which is 3.6 km and offers urban scenery.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly trails in Durham?
The dog-friendly trails in Durham feature a mix of terrain. You'll find riverside paths, woodland trails, and some routes that incorporate urban landscapes. For example, the Wicker Miner's Wife – Low Burnhall Riverside Trail loop offers a blend of riverside and woodland scenery.
Are there any circular dog-friendly walks in the City of Durham?
Yes, many of the dog-friendly routes in Durham are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Examples include the 6.6 km The Wicker Miner's Wife – Low Burnhall Riverside Trail loop and the 3.4 km The Wicker Miner Sculpture loop from Butterby Oxbow.
What can I see along the dog-friendly hiking trails in Durham?
Many dog-friendly trails in Durham offer scenic views and pass by significant landmarks. You might encounter historical sites like Durham Castle or the impressive Durham Cathedral. Some routes, such as the Old Durham Gardens – The Wicker Miner Sculpture loop, also take you through beautiful gardens and past unique sculptures.
Are there any longer, more challenging dog-friendly hikes for experienced hikers?
For those seeking a longer, more moderate challenge, the City of Durham has options. Consider the Old Durham Gardens – The Wicker Miner Sculpture loop from Durham, which spans over 12.5 km and features moderate elevation changes, providing a good workout for you and your dog.
What do other hikers enjoy most about dog-friendly hiking in the City of Durham?
The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in Durham, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful mix of riverside and woodland scenery, and the accessibility of routes that allow them to enjoy nature with their dogs.
Are there any trails that offer views of Durham Cathedral or Durham Castle?
Yes, some dog-friendly routes provide excellent views of Durham's iconic landmarks. The Millennium Square, Durham – Durham Castle loop from Durham specifically includes views of Durham Castle, and you can often catch glimpses of Durham Cathedral from various points along the riverbanks and city trails.
Can I find trails that follow a river or have water access for my dog?
Many of the dog-friendly trails in Durham follow the River Wear, offering picturesque riverside walks and potential water access for dogs, depending on the specific section and current conditions. The Low Burnhall Riverside Trail – The Wicker Miner's Wife loop is a great example of a route that closely follows the river.
What is the best time of year to go dog-friendly hiking in Durham?
The City of Durham's dog-friendly trails can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter walks can be crisp and scenic, though some paths might be muddy, so appropriate footwear for both you and your dog is recommended.
Are there any trails that pass by historical sites or points of interest?
Absolutely. Durham is rich in history, and many dog-friendly trails incorporate historical elements. Beyond the famous Durham Castle and Durham Cathedral, you might also find trails leading near sites like Finchale Priory or Lumley Castle, offering a blend of nature and heritage.
Most popular routes around City Of Durham
Most popular attractions around City Of Durham
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
