Durham Riverside Walk, Durham (must see)

The Durham Riverside Walk offers a scenic three-mile loop along the River Wear, inviting visitors to enjoy a peaceful stretch of nature and heritage right in the heart of the city. The most popular starting point is near Baths Bridge on Green Lane, but the route is flexible-you can jump in or out at several points depending on your pace or curiosity.

This riverside path weaves past leafy banks, quiet meadows, and some of Durham’s most iconic landmarks. Walkers will spot a series of distinctive bridges-Baths Bridge, Elvet Bridge, Prebends Bridge, and the dramatic Kingsgate Footbridge-each offering a new perspective on the river. Highlights along the route include the Durham Student Union, Saint Oswald’s Church, King's Church, and occasional glimpses of university buildings tucked behind trees.

On either bank, there’s no shortage of spots to pause, from benches and grassy slopes to cafés tucked near the Milburngate Bridge.

One of the most notable features of the walk is the changing view of Durham Cathedral, which rises above the treetops like a sentinel watching over the city. The riverside trail also offers occasional encounters with ducks, herons, and other birdlife, making it a favourite for quiet reflection or casual photography. You might be out for a brisk stretch or simply ambling with coffee in hand-either way, the Durham Riverside Walk offers a satisfying mix of movement and pause.