The best gravel rides in Durham Coast National Nature Reserve

The reserve offers a diverse mix of surfaces ideal for gravel biking. You'll encounter converted railway paths, such as the 'Yellow Brick Road', along with cycleways, bridleways, and quiet roads. Many routes feature unpaved segments, providing a true gravel experience, though some sections can be challenging or muddy after rain. The varied terrain includes coastal paths, wooded denes, and former colliery landscapes.

Yes, there are several easy routes. For instance, the Hart to Haswell Walkway – Hart to Haswell Walkway loop from Hart is an easy 16.2 km trail that follows a converted railway path, offering smooth sections. Another accessible option is the South Hetton Colliery Wheel – Stony Cut Bank Path loop from Seaham, which is 16.6 km and leads through historical landscapes and coastal paths.

You'll experience the dramatic cream-coloured magnesian limestone cliffs, reaching up to 30 meters high, and explore steep-sided wooded valleys known as 'denes' or 'gills'. The cliff-top grasslands are rich in wildflowers. You might also spot roe deer in the woodlands or porpoises and dolphins from the coast on calm days. The area also features remnants of its industrial past, such as colliery memorials, alongside its restored natural beauty.

For a more extensive ride, consider the Hurworth Burn Reservoir – National Cycle Network Route 1 loop from Seaham. This moderate route covers approximately 59.4 km and incorporates sections of the National Cycle Network. Another moderate option is the Hurworth Burn Reservoir – Thorpe Thewles Station loop from Wingate, which is 27.2 km and navigates varied rural landscapes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from more than 5 reviews. Over 70 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore the reserve's varied terrain, often praising the unique coastal views, the mix of surfaces, and the opportunity to explore both natural and historical landscapes.

While the reserve is a natural area, many paths, especially converted railway lines and bridleways, are generally suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept under control. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in sensitive wildlife areas or on private land. Remember to clean up after your dog.

Spring and summer offer pleasant conditions with wildflowers in bloom along the cliffs and generally drier paths. Autumn provides beautiful colours in the wooded denes. While winter riding is possible, some unpaved sections can become quite muddy and challenging after rain, so be prepared for varied conditions.

Yes, all the routes highlighted in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Hart to Haswell Walkway loop from Hart and the Hurworth Burn Reservoir loop from Wingate.

The Durham Coast National Nature Reserve has various access points, and parking is typically available near popular trailheads or coastal villages. Specific parking information for individual routes can often be found on komoot tour pages or local council websites. It's advisable to check these resources when planning your ride.

The area is served by local bus routes, and some train stations are within reasonable cycling distance of the reserve's boundaries. The National Cycle Network, including Routes 1 and 14, runs through the area, connecting various towns and villages, which can facilitate access via public transport. Check local transport schedules and bike carriage policies before you travel.

While specific cafes or pubs directly on every trail segment might be limited, many routes pass through or near coastal towns and villages like Seaham, Hartlepool, and Peterlee, where you can find various establishments for refreshments. Planning your route with potential stops in mind is recommended.

Generally, no specific permit is required for cycling on public rights of way, converted railway paths, or designated cycleways within the Durham Coast National Nature Reserve. However, always respect local signage, especially in sensitive ecological areas or on private land, and adhere to the Countryside Code.