Take in some fresh air by visiting these outdoor spaces around Durham, from scenic spots along the River Wear to beautiful parkland and other places for some fresh air.
What can be nicer than a gentle walk-through nature for an enjoyable and inexpensive day out. We have some great places around Durham to take elderly loved ones to stretch their legs and keep mobile, but if you’re pressed for ideas these suggestions should help get you moving.
A beautiful and historic walk along the riverbank in Durham, overlooked by the Cathedral and Castle. Something for everyone, trails include nature, history, geology and pilgrimage. The different trail maps can be downloaded from the Durham Cathedral website.
Perfectly located in the centre of town, it is easy to reach and makes a natural stopping point on any trip.
Step back in time, situated 3 miles from Durham City, and close to the Home Instead office, this is a hidden oasis of tranquillity, the Priory is open all year, though may not be suitable for those with mobility issues due to the uneven ground it sits upon.
There is a short walk along the river through the woodland, try visiting in spring when the smell from the wild garlic is incredible.
Take a picnic, a football and the grandchildren and make use of the enormous long stay picnic field for an afternoon out.
Or under the shadow of the Priory, you can sit on picnic benches, and watch the river, keep a look out for the heron catching his lunch and watch the ducks.
There are toilets and a small café on site, access to the Priory is free, but there is a small parking fee.
Get back to nature at this wonderful nature reserve with easy access paths around the reserve, making mobility scooter and wheelchair access easy.
An ideal place for an older person to have an easy stroll surrounded by nature, from otters and flamingos, woodland and ponds, or a great place for a whole family afternoon out, with a stop off at the Duckery and Ganderland, a must! And let the grandkids burn off energy at the adventure playground.
Ideal for anyone who loves being surrounded by nature, the Reserve has on-site parking, a picnic area, café and numerous footpaths and trails. No dogs allowed anywhere on site – only guide dogs
For something a little different, why not take a walk through the deer park at Raby Castle, you’ll see herds of red and fallow deer, both herds can trace their heritage back to Norman times.
Set in the grounds of the castle, Raby was built by the Nevill family in the 14th century and was the birthplace of Cecily Nevill, mother of Edward IV and Richard III. Then 154 years later during the Tudor period, it became a secret base for the plotting of the Rising of the North.
Raby has special events throughout the year from the outdoor summer theatre, open-air cinema, seasonal markets and our popular Fireside Stories at Christmas.
With a picnic area, café, toilets and parking, this is a perfect Sunday drive out spot, dogs are allowed in the park area on short leads.
You’ll find Raby Castle at Staindrop, County Durham and just off the A688