Bluebells by the River Wear - a Durham City Stroll
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Join Steven and the OutdoorLads for a relatively easy stroll around the countryside close to Durham City. In the heart of the Land of The Prince Bishops the route will pass through two deciduous woodlands well known locally for the impressive displays of bluebells in early May.
Although the route is largely flat there are a couple of smaller climbs and a good distance is covered in a winding route from Durham City Centre towards and around the village of Shincliffe keeping the River Wear not too far from view.
Using well trodden paths, quiet lanes and tracks the views of the river, bluebells and Durham Cathedral are all bound to keep all the photographers' cameras busy.
The day will end with a walk up to view Durham Cathedral at close quarters a fitting finale to a day out in Durham and then a stop off for a couple of drinks in one of the many bars on the cobbled street down to the market square before returning home.
What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking, trainers are OK if the ground is dry and there’s little chance of rain
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
Food & drink
There is a chance to purchase food at the garden centre about two thirds around the walk and snacks at a farm that is passed through. I recommend bringing plenty of snacks and a packed lunch.
Two litres of water or a refreshing cool drink will be needed as there is little shade for most of a route that is in full sun at this time of the year so plenty of liquids will be needed to keep you well hydrated.