NZ2742 : The entrance to Durham Castle

Durham Castle

76m Elevation
37m Prominence
England Country
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NZ2742 : The entrance to Durham Castle

Graham Hogg Photo source

Explore routes near Durham Castle

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Jesmond Dene (extended) circular

9.4 km ~3h Moderate

View route

Jesmond Dene and Armstrong Park Circular

5.6 km ~2h Easy

View route

Ponteland and Darras Hall Circular

7.9 km ~2h Easy

View route

Briardenne car park to tynemouth priory

5.1 km ~3h 30m Moderate

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Castle Walk

A pleasant circular route around the castle, ideal for a leisurely stroll or quick jog with splendid views of the River Wear.

1.5 km ~0.5 hours Easy
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

0-99m hill

Elevation

76m

249 ft

Prominence

37m

Coordinates

54.7755, -1.5757

NZ273423

OS Map

88

Explorer: 308

At the Summit

The summit features a striking Norman keep and a beautifully maintained chapel. The views are worth the climb, even if 'summit' is a bit generous given its elevation.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy and paved with urban surroundings.

The castle is primarily built on a base of magnesian limestone, which dates back to the Permian period. It's sturdy enough to have weathered many a storm, both literal and metaphorical!

Views & Scenery

Spectacular views of the River Wear and the surrounding cityscape of Durham, including the majestic Durham Cathedral.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Durham' is derived from the Old English term 'dun', meaning hill, referencing the elevated position of the castle.

Historical Significance

Durham Castle has been a significant site since the 11th century, serving as a palace for the Bishop of Durham and a fortress during the turbulent times of the English Reformation.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Flatts' Car Park, located a short stroll from the castle with ample spaces.

Public Transport

Durham railway station is nearby, with regular services from major cities. Additionally, local buses frequently stop close to the castle.

Nearby Facilities

Cafés, restaurants, and public toilets can be found within the castle grounds and the surrounding area.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep drops along the riverbank and the potential for slippery paths after rain.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Durham Castle?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Durham Castle through the maps

Are there other walkers around Durham Castle?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Durham Castle search or of course create your own walk for Durham Castle

Can I organise a walk to Durham Castle?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Durham Castle.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Durham Castle?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Durham Castle here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NZ273423

View on OpenStreetMap

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