Hello!
Here are a few routes to inspire further exploration of Durham and its beautiful surroundings! These routes are indications, so feel free to explore beyond these paths and create your own (and share them with us!). Note that the accessibility of these routes can change with seasons: some may get quite muddy, while others going through crops may be less accessible when crops are high, so stay vigilant.
Komoot is a free app you can use to create and share routes. If you download it on your phone, you’ll be able to follow the route with your gps (you’ll be the little blue dot that moves on the map).
To record my routes, I usually use Strava. You can have Strava opened in the background to record your routes while following some of ours on Komoot. For more routes, you may want to follow our Ustinov Running club page and its members here: https://www.strava.com/clubs/ustinov
Also, be sure you have an appropriate outfit when going on a walk/hike: I would advise waterproof hiking boots for the winter months, a waterproof jacket, and maybe waterproof trousers if you go out during a rainy day. Do not forget water/snacks, and a phone (maybe with an external battery to be sure you don’t run out of power).
Always be respectful of the other walkers and the animals around (keep quiet, keep your litter)!
Enjoy!!
WALK 1: Quick green loop to Sainsbury’s (Time: 01:00 ; Distance: 3.9 km). Description: Going to Sainsbury’s? Then take the green path!! A small loop that follows river Browney and allows a quick stop to Sainsbury’s if needed. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to grab fresh eggs from the two farms on the way (don’t forget change), and say hi to the donkeys, ponies, and chicken. Route: https://www.komoot.com/tour/283316482?ref=wtd
WALK 2: Easy quick walk around Broom Park (Time: 02:00 ; Distance: 7.4 km). Description: An easy quick walk that shouldn’t be too muddy (but that is Durham, so be ready for everything!). Route: https://www.komoot.com/tour/283314689?ref=wtd
WALK 3: River Wear and woods around Durham (Time: 02:10 ; Distance: 7.8 km). Description: An easy walk around Durham and the woods by the botanic garden. Mud expected in the woods! Route: https://www.komoot.com/tour/283318891?ref=wtd
WALK 4: To the North-West (Time: 04:00 ; Distance: 15.6 km). Description: To go a bit further with river Browney! Route: https://www.komoot.com/tour/226545619?ref=wtd
WALK 5: To the South, River Wear and field! (Time: 04:30 ; Distance: 17 km). Description: A very nice loop that follows river Wear in the South. You’ll cross a few fields, maybe with cows and sheep. Always stay calm in the fields with animals. Cows may approach you, they are very curious social animals, but refrain from running and talking loudly. Do not approach the animals, particularly when there are young in the field (their mom will be very protective). Route: https://www.komoot.com/tour/234519183?ref=wtd
WALK 6: To the West (Time: 04:30 ; Distance: 17.4 km). Description: Do not hesitate to follow the Deerness Valley Railway Path and explore the various paths around! Route: https://www.komoot.com/tour/230251265?ref=wtd
WALK 7: Longer version of the previous walk (Time: 05:50 ; Distance: 22 km). Description: For the most adventurous walkers! Route: https://www.komoot.com/tour/226153748?ref=wtd
GRADUATE COMMON ROOM 