Whinney Hill

The walk up Whinney Hill takes about twenty minutes from Durham town centre, which makes it brilliant for a quick leg-stretch if you're staying at one of the nearby caravan parks. It's not a mountain - more a proper hill with views across County Durham that justify the effort on a clear day. The summit isn't dramatic, but on the way up you get a real sense of leaving the city behind.

Once you're up there, the panorama opens out nicely. You can see across to the surrounding countryside, and it's the kind of spot where families with younger children won't feel they've wasted an afternoon. The walk itself is straightforward enough - no scrambling or technical bits - so anyone reasonably fit will manage it without drama. Allow an hour return trip if you're not rushing.

History types will appreciate that you're walking in an area with genuine Durham pedigree, though Whinney Hill itself is more about the walk than any specific attractions at the top. It works well as part of a broader exploration of Durham if you're based at Durham Grange or Finchale Abbey, both within three miles. The real appeal is getting away from the cathedral and castle crowds without needing to venture far from your base. Go mid-morning to dodge the afternoon crowds, and pick a day when the visibility is decent - a grey day up here is rather underwhelming.