Glorious summer walk in County Durham among UK's best - stop for a Sunday roast too
A stroll in Weardale in County Durham was highlighted by The Times for features including 'flower-filled hay meadows' and the scenic sites of waterfalls, with a pub stop for the 'best' Sunday roast along the way.
Revealing its latest outdoor guide for the warmer weather, the publisher said: 'Water, wildlife and escaping the crowds are definite themes in ourpick of 20 glorious walks to try this summer.
'Starting in South Devon, Beesands boasts the best of both pebble beach and freshwater ley.
'Wildflowers abound on the chalk and limestone grasslands of the Isle of Wight, Cotswold and Belfast Hills, drawing butterflies in their numbers throughout the warmer months.
"As do the woods of Blean in Kent and Savernake in Wiltshire, a stronghold of the elusive purple emperor.'
It adds: 'For those who enjoy a mid-walk dip, the serene llyns and lochs of Eryri and Angus await.
'Or cool off in the spray of some truly magnificent waterfalls at Weardale, Wensleydale and the peaceful Howgill Fells, a stone's throw and a world away from the Lake District's tourist hotspots.
'Coastal wildlife flourishes over the summer too, from nesting seabirds at Stackpole and Sandwood Bay to dolphins and porpoises in the Moray Firth.'
The Largest National Parks in the UK
Read more about Britain's most glorious summer walks via The Times' website.
What did The Times say about this glorious summer walk in Weardale?
The publisher shared: 'Catch the brilliant blue of a kingfisher speeding along the River Wear, then climb through flower-filled hay meadows to the open moors of the North Pennines.
'Listen for the bubbling call of curlews and the peewit of acrobatic lapwings. Head back along wooded Middlehope Burn, passing old mineworks and waterfalls.'
Wondering what the route that starts at Westgate village (DL13 1RX) entails? The experts at The Times have explained the directions to follow:
Cross River Wear south of Westgate village and join Weardale Way (WW) with river on right, passing ford and footbridge.
Cross Daddry Shield Bridge and next footbridge, following Burn Foot to road junction (889382).
Turn left on road then take footpath (FP) on right uphill to Side Head.
Turn left for short distance to Bridleway (BW) on right, following the walled track across Carr Brow Moor to road (882401).
Turn right, following road around sharp right bend and down Middlehope Bank passing old mineworks.
Turn right onto byway continuing to track junction (900398).
Turn left, leaving byway and walking downhill to Middlehope Burn.
Cross burn and turn right, following FP along riverbank towards Westgate, passing old mine and crossing burn a couple of times on the way.
Upon reaching road, turn right to finish.
The Weardale walk is around 6.5 miles long and labeled as a 'moderate' difficulty.
But the best part about this County Durham walk? You can enjoy lunch by the river at the Hare and Hounds, Westgate, home to the Weard'Ale Brewery.
The pub currently has a 4.7/5 rating on Tripadvisor from 140 reviews and has been heavily praised for its Sunday roasts.
Recommended reading:
County Durham's highest-rated glorious waterfall is England's 'most impressive'
North East's 'best' beach is the 'most remote' tranquil coastal spot (so pretty)
Small North East market town dubbed 'culinary hotspot' among best for foodies
As this person complimented: 'My wife and I visited the Hare and Hounds today after pre booking, which seems essential. We were not disappointed. It was the Best Sunday Roast we have had for years. Freshly cooked vegetables and a choice of beef lamb or pork very good portions of meat served to you then put your own veg and trimmings. All with the best gravy. Friendly staff and bee from onsite brewery. Strongly Recommend.'
Another added: 'Best Sunday lunch around. Great value for money and great beer to go with it. If you can get a table it's worth travelling up the dale.'
Additionally, The Times advises the best way to get there is either by train to Bishop Auckland, bus to Westgate via Stanhope, or by car, following the A689 between Alston and Stanhope.
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