Winter walks in the North Pennines National Landscape

8 December 2023

There’s no need to wait for spring or summer to get outdoors and experience some of the nation’s finest upland landscapes, here in the North Pennines. Walking in winter can give you amazing views, and often gives a different perspective on familiar routes.

The North Pennines National Landscape and UNESCO Global Geopark covers a large area of County Durham, Cumbria and Northumberland and walkers can choose from many miles of footpaths from high moorland to wooded river valleys, taking in stunning waterfalls and welcoming villages.

We asked the team to choose their favourite winter walks. We’re sharing the top five so you can get to know the area even better in this often surprising season, whether you’re a photographer, wildlife-watcher or simply a lover of the outdoors.

Simon Wilson, from the North Pennines National Landscape team, explains: “There are over 60 self-guided walks free to download from our website, with great opportunities for people to get out and enjoy the North Pennines countryside during the winter months.”

Visit the interactive map to discover and download walking routes.

The top five for winter are:

1. High Force Geotrail: the ever-popular circular walk from Bowlees Visitor Centre taking in Low Force and High Force in County Durham, including part of the Pennine Way National Trail.

2. Allenheads Geotrail: a three mile trail at Allenheads in Northumberland exploring the area’s geology and mining heritage.

3. Derwent Reservoir Walks, Rides and Wildlife: an all-weather path around the reservoir, suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs and bicycles.

4. Slitt Wood and West Rigg Geotrail: a popular trail in Weardale which takes in fantastic wildlife sites alongside remnants of the area’s industrial past.

5. Dufton Geotrail: learn how to read the landscape in this circular walk around Dufton Pike in Cumbria.

Paul Mitchinson, British Mountaineering Council (BMC) North East Area Meeting Hill Walking Representative and local walking guide adds: “There is little finer than enjoying the wildlife and tranquillity of a crisp winter’s day in the North Pennines, with the crunch of frozen ground underfoot and the sound of a stream your only distractions. When walking in winter especially in remote upland areas, you should always be prepared for the winter weather, have the right kit, know how to use it and explore within your abilities. The BMC has great walking skills resources and information at thebmc.co.uk to help you get started.”